How are dependency requests for secondary dependents processed?

Dependency requests for secondary dependents are processed primarily by mailing supporting documents to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service - Cleveland (DFAS-CL). This method is crucial because secondary dependency requests often require documentation that verifies the dependent's status and relationship to the service member. These documents could include birth certificates, marriage licenses, or court orders indicating custody or guardianship.

Sending these documents directly to DFAS-CL ensures that they are received by the appropriate office that processes these requests, allowing for the proper evaluation and approval of the dependency claim. Ensuring that all required documentation is included when mailing the request is essential for the timely processing and potential approval of the dependency request, avoiding delays that could occur if information is missing.

Other options like visiting a military office or calling a hotline may offer assistance or guidance but do not serve as a formal processing method for secondary dependency requests. An online application might be an option for other types of requests or services but is not the standard method for secondary dependent requests, which requires the physical documentation to be sent.