Section 838.731 - Commencing date of payments(a) A former spouse survivor annuity based on a court order acceptable for processing begins to accrue in accordance with the terms of the court order but no earlier than the later of-(1) The first day after the date of death of the employee, separated employee, or retiree; or(2) The first day of the second month after OPM receives a copy of the court order acceptable for processing.(b) OPM will not authorize payment of the former spouse survivor annuity until it receives an application and supporting documentation required under § 838.721 .