When a loved one passes away, especially one who was a retired public servant, it's necessary to notify the appropriate entities to prevent any issues down the line. If your loved one was a retiree of the State of Connecticut and receiving benefits from the State Employees Retirement System (SERS), you will need to inform them about the death.
Who Should Be Notified
The Connecticut State Employees Retirement System (SERS) should be notified in the event of a retiree's death. SERS manages the pensions of retired state employees, and they need to be informed to stop the pension payments and to provide any potential survivor benefits.
When to Notify
You should notify SERS as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. This helps prevent any overpayments of pension benefits, which could lead to subsequent issues.
How to Notify
To notify SERS, you will need to submit a copy of the death certificate. This can be mailed to the Connecticut State Employees Retirement System, 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106. You can also fax it to (860) 702-3489. Be sure to include your contact details so they can get in touch with you if necessary.
What to Expect After Notification
Once SERS has been notified, they will stop the pension payments. If the deceased had chosen a survivor benefit option, SERS will guide you through the process of transferring the benefits. They may also provide information about any potential lump-sum payments or continued health insurance coverage, if applicable.
Tips for Notification
When notifying SERS, it's important to keep a record of all correspondence, including a copy of the death certificate and the date it was sent. This will be helpful if there are any discrepancies or issues later on. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact SERS for clarification.
Conclusion
While it's a challenging task, notifying SERS after a loved one's passing is a vital step. It ensures the smooth cessation of pension benefits and the potential continuation of survivor benefits. With a little preparation and understanding of the process, you can successfully complete this task during a difficult time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify SERS online or over the phone?
A: Currently, SERS requires notification of a death to be submitted in writing, accompanied by a copy of the death certificate, either by mail or fax. They do not accept notifications online or over the phone.
Q: What if my loved one received overpayments after their death?
A: If SERS was not notified promptly and continued to make pension payments, they would typically request this money back. It's best to discuss this situation directly with SERS.
Q: What happens if my loved one chose a survivor benefit?
A: If a survivor benefit was chosen, SERS will guide you through the process of transferring the benefits to the designated survivor after receiving the death notification.
