Following the death of a loved one, there are numerous tasks to manage, including notifying their pension provider. If your family member was a member of the Kentucky Retirement Systems (KRS), informing them promptly will ensure the proper handling of the pension and any potential death benefits.
Who Should Be Notified
The Kentucky Retirement Systems should be notified if your loved one was a retired public employee in the state of Kentucky and was receiving pension benefits from KRS.
When to Notify
You should notify KRS as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. This helps to prevent overpayment of pension benefits and ensures any eligible survivor benefits are processed promptly.
How to Notify
You can notify KRS by calling their customer service number listed on their website. Be prepared with the deceased's name, Social Security number, date of death, and any relevant account information. You may also need to provide a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
Once you've notified KRS, they will stop the deceased's pension payments and provide information regarding any potential survivor benefits or death benefits. The specific benefits available will depend on the deceased's plan and their years of service.
Tips for Notification
Keep a record of all your communications with KRS, including dates and names of the representatives you spoke to. This can be helpful in case of any discrepancies or issues later on. Also, make sure to keep copies of any documents you send them.
Conclusion
While it's a challenging task, notifying the Kentucky Retirement Systems after the passing of a loved one is a crucial step to ensure the appropriate management of their pension and the initiation of any potential survivor benefits.
FAQ
Q: What if I can't find my loved one's KRS account information?
A: KRS may be able to locate the account with the deceased's name and Social Security number. However, having the account number can expedite the process.
Q: What happens if pension payments were received after the death?
A: If KRS was not notified promptly and continued to make payments, they would typically request this money back. It's best to discuss this situation directly with KRS.
Q: Who is eligible for survivor benefits?
A: Eligibility for survivor benefits depends on the specific plan of the deceased. Typically, spouses and minor children are considered for such benefits. KRS can provide specific information based on the deceased's plan.
