Death Gratuity

Death gratuity is a lump sum gratuitous payment made by the Navy to eligible beneficiaries of Sailors who die on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty for training.

MILPERSMAN Article 1770-280 defines Navy policy for Sailors’ eligibility, eligible beneficiaries, and awarding of the death gratuity. Effective Jan. 6, 2006, the death gratuity payment is $100,000.

Sailors may designate one or more persons to receive all or a portion of the death gratuity. The amount payable to the designee will be specified on their Record of Emergency Data (Page 2) in 10 percent increments.

Payment of death gratuity will be made to the eligible beneficiary by DFAS Cleveland via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT); however, if the payee requests a check, it can be arranged. Your Casualty Assistance Calls Officer (CACO) will be able to assist you in arranging for payment by either EFT or check.

For additional information, please call your CACO or Navy Casualty Assistance at:

Toll Free: 1-800-368-3202

Commercial: 1-901-874-2501

DSN: 882-2501