Definition & Meaning of the SF 1174 Form
The SF 1174 form, officially titled "Claim for Unpaid Compensation of Deceased Member of the Uniformed Services," is a crucial document for family members or designated beneficiaries of deceased military personnel. This form is specifically designed to facilitate the claim for Arrears of Pay (AOP), which includes the last month's pay and any other funds owed to the deceased service member. The form must be completed and submitted to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) to initiate the payment process.
How to Use the SF 1174 Form
Using the SF 1174 form involves several steps to ensure that the claim is processed efficiently. Beneficiaries need to gather necessary documentation, including the death certificate of the service member, before filling out the form. The form requires detailed information about the deceased, such as their full name, Social Security number, and the relationship of the claimant to the deceased. Once completed, the form must be submitted to DFAS, either online or by mail.
How to Obtain the SF 1174 Form
The SF 1174 form can be obtained through various official channels. It is available on the official DFAS website, where users can download a fillable PDF version. Additionally, the form can be requested through military installations or veteran service organizations. Ensuring that you have the most current version of the form is essential to avoid processing delays.
Steps to Complete the SF 1174 Form
Completing the SF 1174 form requires careful attention to detail. Here are the steps to follow:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect the death certificate and any other necessary documents.
- Fill Out the Form: Provide accurate information about the deceased service member and the claimant.
- Signatures: The form must be signed by the claimant and typically requires two disinterested witnesses.
- Submit the Form: Send the completed form and supporting documents to DFAS via the preferred method.
Who Typically Uses the SF 1174 Form
The SF 1174 form is primarily used by family members or designated beneficiaries of deceased military personnel. This includes:
- Spouses of the deceased service members.
- Children or other dependents entitled to claim the unpaid compensation.
- Court-appointed executors managing the estate of the deceased.
Important Terms Related to the SF 1174 Form
Understanding key terms associated with the SF 1174 form is vital for successful completion and submission. Some important terms include:
- Arrears of Pay (AOP): The final payment owed to the deceased service member.
- Designated Beneficiary: The individual chosen to receive benefits after the service member's death.
- Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS): The agency responsible for processing claims related to military pay.
Required Documents for the SF 1174 Form
When submitting the SF 1174 form, certain documents are required to support the claim. These include:
- Death Certificate: A certified copy of the service member's death certificate is mandatory.
- Proof of Relationship: Documentation proving the relationship between the claimant and the deceased, such as marriage or birth certificates.
Form Submission Methods
The SF 1174 form can be submitted in several ways, depending on the claimant's preference and the resources available:
- Online Submission: Claims can be submitted through the DFAS online portal, which may expedite processing.
- Mail Submission: Completed forms can be mailed directly to DFAS, ensuring that all required documents are included.
- In-Person Submission: Some individuals may choose to submit the form in person at a local military installation.
Examples of Using the SF 1174 Form
Real-world scenarios illustrate the use of the SF 1174 form. For instance:
- A widow of a retired service member may use the SF 1174 to claim unpaid compensation after her husband's passing.
- A child of a deceased service member may file the form to receive the last month's pay owed to their parent.
