### Question
How is the "former spouse" defined?


### Answer
The term **former spouse** is defined in *5 U.S.C. § 8401* as follows -

> a former spouse of an individual—


(A) if such individual performed at least 18 months of civilian service creditable under section 8411 as an employee or Member

#### Citation:
  - *5 U.S.C. § 8401*
  - Heading: **PART III-EMPLOYEES > Subpart G-Insurance and Annuities > CHAPTER 84-FEDERAL EMPLOYEES&apos; RETIREMENT SYSTEM > SUBCHAPTER I-GENERAL PROVISIONS**

