Contacting the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) can seem daunting, given its large size and the complex issues it handles. However, understanding the available channels and the specific area of your inquiry can greatly simplify the process.
For general inquiries and commonly addressed issues, the DFAS website (dfas.mil) is the primary resource. It hosts a comprehensive FAQ section covering various topics such as pay, travel, garnishments, and tax information. Often, you’ll find answers to your questions here, eliminating the need for direct contact.
If you’re a military member (active duty, reservist, or National Guard) or a military retiree with questions about your pay, the best starting point is often your unit’s finance office or your servicing finance office, if retired. They are typically equipped to handle routine pay inquiries, resolve discrepancies, and provide assistance with documentation. These offices often have a direct line of communication with DFAS specialists.
For more specific or complex issues related to military pay, myPay is a key resource. myPay is a secure, online system where service members and retirees can access their pay statements (LES), tax documents (W-2s), and make changes to their allotments, direct deposit information, and contact information. Through myPay, you can also submit inquiries electronically, which are then routed to the appropriate DFAS department. The system allows you to track the status of your inquiry.
Civilian employees of the Department of Defense (DoD) who have payroll-related questions should generally contact their employing agency’s human resources or payroll office. These offices are responsible for managing civilian employee pay and benefits and will serve as the initial point of contact for payroll issues.
Vendor and contractor inquiries should be directed to the specific DFAS office or department managing the contract in question. The contract itself should contain relevant contact information. If the contract does not have sufficient contact information, you can explore the “Vendor Pay” section of the DFAS website for general guidance and points of contact related to vendor payments. Invoices should be submitted electronically through Wide Area Workflow (WAWF), which is now known as Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE).
For issues related to garnishments or levies, there is a dedicated garnishment division within DFAS. Contact information for this division can be found on the DFAS website, specifically under the section addressing garnishments. Providing all relevant documentation, such as the court order or levy notice, will help expedite the process.
While a general phone number for DFAS exists, it’s often best to explore the other options first, as call volumes can be high. You can find the general phone number and other relevant contact information on the DFAS website, typically within the “Contact Us” section. However, be prepared for potentially long wait times and ensure you have your social security number, date of birth, and other relevant information readily available to verify your identity.
Finally, remember to document all your interactions with DFAS, including dates, times, names of representatives you spoke with, and the reference numbers of any inquiries you submitted. This documentation will be helpful if you need to escalate your issue or follow up on a previous communication.