What initial action does DFAS-CL take if the member claims a parent as a dependent?

When a member claims a parent as a dependent, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service - Cleveland (DFAS-CL) takes the initial action of sending a DD Form 137-3 for completion. This form is required to formally evaluate the legitimacy of the dependency claim. The submission of this form ensures that necessary information and documentation are gathered to assess eligibility according to the specific criteria outlined by the Department of Defense.

This process is important because simply claiming a dependent does not automatically qualify the parent as a dependent. The DD Form 137-3 allows DFAS-CL to collect details such as income, support, and living arrangements to determine if the claim meets the legal and regulatory requirements for dependency status.

Other options, while possible actions in different contexts, do not align with the initial step DFAS-CL must take when assessing a parent's dependent status. This structured approach helps maintain clarity and ensures all claims are evaluated fairly and according to established guidelines.