In the wake of a loved one's passing, there are numerous administrative tasks to be undertaken, one of which is notifying pension providers such as the Hawaii Employees' Retirement System (ERS). This is an essential step to sort out financial matters and prevent any complications.
Who Should Be Notified
If your loved one was a recipient of a pension from the Hawaii ERS, it is crucial to notify them of the death. This will halt the pension payments and allow the ERS to provide information on any possible survivor benefits.
When to Notify
You should notify the Hawaii ERS as soon as you can after your loved one's passing. This will help prevent any overpayment of pension benefits that you may need to repay later.
How to Notify
To notify the Hawaii ERS of a death, you can contact them via phone, mail, or fax. You will need to provide the member's full name, date of birth, and social security number, as well as a certified copy of the death certificate. Detailed contact information can be found on the ERS website.
What to Expect After Notification
Once you have notified the Hawaii ERS, they will stop pension payments and provide you with information on any applicable benefits, including potential survivor benefits. They may require additional documentation, such as marriage or birth certificates, if a survivor benefit is to be claimed.
Tips for Notification
When notifying the ERS, make sure to keep a record of all communications, including the date and time of your call and the name of the representative you spoke with. This can be helpful in case of any discrepancies or misunderstandings.
Conclusion
While it's a challenging task, notifying the Hawaii ERS after the passing of a loved one is a crucial step. It ensures the cessation of pension payments and provides clarity on any survivor benefits. With preparation and understanding of the process, you can navigate this task successfully during a difficult time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify the Hawaii ERS online?
A: Currently, the Hawaii ERS doesn't offer online notification for the death of a member. You must call, mail, or fax them.
Q: What if I can't find my loved one's social security number?
A: The Hawaii ERS may be able to locate the member's record using their full name and date of birth. However, having the social security number can expedite the process.
Q: What if my loved one received overpayments after their death?
A: If the Hawaii ERS continues to make payments after the member's death, they will typically request repayment. It's important to notify the ERS as soon as possible to prevent this situation.
