Mastering the DD Form 2656-2, also known as the "Data for Payment of Retired Personnel," is a crucial task for military personnel approaching retirement. This form is used to initiate payment of retired pay, and it's essential to complete it accurately to avoid delays or errors in payment. In this article, we'll break down the process of mastering the DD Form 2656-2 into five easy steps.
Understanding the Importance of DD Form 2656-2
The DD Form 2656-2 is a critical document that serves as the foundation for retired pay. It's used to verify a retiree's eligibility for pay and to determine the correct amount of pay. The form is typically completed by the military personnel office, but it's essential for retirees to understand the process to ensure accuracy.
Why is DD Form 2656-2 important?
- It initiates payment of retired pay
- It verifies eligibility for pay
- It determines the correct amount of pay
- It's used to update pay records
Step 1: Gathering Required Documents
Before starting the DD Form 2656-2, it's essential to gather all required documents. These documents typically include:
- DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
- DD Form 215 (Information in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Veterans)
- Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)
- Retirement orders
- Identification documents (driver's license, passport, etc.)
What documents do I need to gather?
- DD Form 214
- DD Form 215
- Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)
- Retirement orders
- Identification documents
Step 2: Completing Section I - Identification
Section I of the DD Form 2656-2 requires personal identification information. This section includes:
- Name
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Service number
- Branch of service
What information do I need to provide in Section I?
- Name
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Service number
- Branch of service
Step 3: Completing Section II - Service Information
Section II requires service information, including:
- Dates of service
- Type of discharge
- Reason for separation
- Service component
What information do I need to provide in Section II?
- Dates of service
- Type of discharge
- Reason for separation
- Service component
Step 4: Completing Section III - Pay Information
Section III requires pay information, including:
- Basic pay
- Allowances
- Deductions
- Net pay
What information do I need to provide in Section III?
- Basic pay
- Allowances
- Deductions
- Net pay
Step 5: Reviewing and Submitting the Form
Once the form is complete, it's essential to review it for accuracy and completeness. The form should be submitted to the military personnel office for processing.
What should I do before submitting the form?
- Review the form for accuracy and completeness
- Ensure all required documents are attached
- Submit the form to the military personnel office
By following these five easy steps, military personnel can master the DD Form 2656-2 and ensure a smooth transition to retirement.
What is the purpose of the DD Form 2656-2?
+The DD Form 2656-2 is used to initiate payment of retired pay and verify eligibility for pay.
What documents do I need to gather before completing the form?
+You'll need to gather documents such as DD Form 214, DD Form 215, Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), retirement orders, and identification documents.
How do I submit the completed form?
+The completed form should be submitted to the military personnel office for processing.
We hope this article has helped you understand the importance of mastering the DD Form 2656-2. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to comment below. Share this article with your fellow military personnel to help them navigate the retirement process.