What happens to a member's SBP election when they change to cover a new spouse and/or children?

The correct answer is that the coverage of the former spouse ceases when a member changes to cover a new spouse and/or children. This is due to the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) regulations, which are designed to ensure that only the current beneficiaries receive coverage. When a service member elects to cover a new spouse or children, the previous election for a former spouse automatically terminates. This reflects the intention of the SBP to provide financial security specifically for current dependents, thereby eliminating any claims by ex-spouses regarding coverage that was intended for the current family members.

In this context, the remaining choices do not accurately represent the process. For instance, the option regarding automatic resetting is misleading as the plan does not simply reset; rather, the former spouse’s coverage is explicitly terminated. Likewise, the claim that coverage cannot be changed is incorrect because members have the ability to update their SBP elections to reflect their current family status. Lastly, seeking permission is not a requirement to make this change, as the member has the authority to modify their SBP election in accordance with the current laws governing the plan.