The passing of a loved one is a challenging time, and amidst the grief, there is a myriad of responsibilities to handle. If your loved one was a Missouri state employee and a member of the Missouri State Employees' Retirement System (MOSERS), one of these tasks is to notify MOSERS. Doing so ensures the cessation of pension payments and the potential distribution of any benefits to beneficiaries.
Who Should Be Notified
The Missouri State Employees' Retirement System, or MOSERS, is responsible for managing the retirement benefits of Missouri's public employees. If your loved one was receiving a pension from MOSERS, it's vital to inform the organization to prevent overpayments and to discuss potential survivor or death benefits.
When to Notify
You should inform MOSERS as promptly as possible after the death of the retiree. Timely notification can help avoid any overpayments that may later need to be returned.
How to Notify
You can report the death to MOSERS by calling (800) 827-1063, option 1, or by sending a written notification to MOSERS, PO Box 209, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0209. You'll need to provide the deceased's full name, social security number, date of death, and a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
After MOSERS has been notified, they will stop any pension payments. If your loved one had selected a joint and survivor pension option or if there are other applicable death benefits, MOSERS will guide you through the process of claiming those benefits.
Tips for Notification
Remember to keep copies of all correspondence with MOSERS, including dates and times of phone calls, for future reference. Always ask for a confirmation of the notification of death. If the retiree was receiving direct deposit payments from MOSERS, you should also notify the bank of the death.
Conclusion
The notification of a retiree's death to the Missouri State Employees' Retirement System is an essential step to prevent overpayments and to potentially claim survivor or death benefits. With an understanding of the process, you can successfully navigate this task during a difficult time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify MOSERS online?
A: Currently, MOSERS does not have an online process for reporting a death. You must call them or send a written notification.
Q: What if I don’t have the retiree's MOSERS member ID or social security number?
A: MOSERS can often locate the retiree's record using their full name and date of birth. However, having the MOSERS member ID or social security number can expedite the process.
Q: What if pension payments continue after the retiree's death?
A: If MOSERS continues to make payments after being notified of the death, contact them immediately. Any overpayments will typically need to be returned.
