Army Family resources - Army Times

Survivor Benefits

Spouse and/or child Survivor Benefit Plan coverage is automatic for all active-duty members and is free. However, the member's death must be classified as in the line of duty in order for an annuity to be paid if the member is not yet retirement eligible (has not accrued 20 years of active duty) on the date of death.

The immediately payable SBP annuity is 55 percent of the retired pay entitlement the member would receive if retired with a total disability rating on the date of death.