SF-1152 Form: Designation of Beneficiary Unpaid Compensation

SF-1152 Form: Designation of Beneficiary Unpaid Compensation – SF-1152, officially titled Designation of Beneficiary—Unpaid Compensation of the Deceased Civilian Employee, is a Standard Form used by current or former U.S. federal civilian employees. It allows them to designate one or more beneficiaries to receive any unpaid compensation due upon their death.

This form specifically covers unpaid wages, accrued annual leave, and other miscellaneous compensation owed by the federal government at the time of death. It does not apply to retirement benefits, life insurance (FEGLI), or Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) accounts, which have separate designation forms.

Note: While sometimes referred to in VA or benefits contexts, the form is managed under OPM and GSA guidelines for civilian federal employees.

Why Filing SF-1152 Matters for Federal Employees

Federal civilian employees should complete SF-1152 to ensure their final paycheck, unused leave pay, and other owed compensation go to their chosen loved ones rather than following the default order of precedence.

Without a valid designation, benefits distribute according to law (typically spouse first, then children, parents, estate, etc.). Filing this form provides control and peace of mind, especially for blended families, unmarried partners, or those with specific wishes.

Who Should Use SF-1152?

  • Current federal civilian employees
  • Former employees with potential unpaid compensation
  • Anyone in federal service wanting to override the statutory order of precedence for final pay

It is not for military members (different processes apply) or annuitants (retirees).

How to Download the Official SF-1152 Form?

You can download the current version (revised September 2011) directly here:
Download SF-1152 PDF

Additional official sources:

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out SF-1152

  1. Section A – Identification: Provide your full name, date of birth, Social Security Number, and employing agency details.
  2. Section B – Beneficiaries: List each beneficiary’s full name, address, relationship, and share percentage (must total 100%). Use examples on the form for single, multiple, or contingent beneficiaries.
  3. Examples from the Form:
    • Single beneficiary: Full share to one person.
    • Multiple: Specify percentages (e.g., 50% to spouse, 25% each to two children).
    • Contingent: “If living, to X; otherwise to Y.”
  4. Section C – Witnesses: Two witnesses must sign. Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries.
  5. Signature and Date: Sign and date the form.

Important Tips:

  • No erasures, cross-outs, or alterations.
  • Submit the original to your agency’s Human Resources or Personnel Office for filing in your Official Personnel Folder (OPF).
  • Keep a copy for your records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to update after life events (marriage, divorce, birth of children).
  • Using the wrong form (e.g., confusing with SF-2823 for FEGLI or SF-3102 for FERS).
  • Incomplete addresses or missing witness signatures.
  • Designating a witness as a beneficiary.

How to Update or Cancel Your SF-1152 Designation?

A new SF-1152 automatically cancels all prior designations. Submit the updated form to your HR office. Review your designations periodically or after major life changes.

What Happens After the Employee’s Death?

Surviving family or the designated beneficiary files a claim (often using SF-1153) with the deceased’s former employing agency. The agency processes payment based on the valid SF-1152 on file.

Federal employees should complete multiple forms for full coverage:

  • SF-2823: FEGLI Life Insurance
  • SF-3102 or SF-2808: Retirement benefits
  • TSP-3: Thrift Savings Plan

Consult your agency HR for a complete benefits checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is SF-1152 the same as VA forms?
No. It is a Standard Form for civilian federal unpaid compensation, though sometimes discussed in broader federal benefits contexts.

Can I designate a trust or estate?
Yes, consult the form instructions and examples for proper wording. Legal advice may be helpful for complex designations.

Where do I submit the form?
To your current or most recent federal agency’s Human Resources/Personnel Office.

Is there a deadline?
File as soon as possible. The form remains in effect until changed.

For the most current guidance, always refer to official OPM or GSA resources.