The passing of a loved one is a challenging time, and among the responsibilities to be taken care of is notifying relevant organizations. If your loved one was a public employee in New Jersey, you would need to inform the New Jersey Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). Here's a guide to aid you through the process.
Who Should Be Notified
The New Jersey Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) provides retirement benefits for state employees. If your loved one was a public employee in New Jersey or a retiree receiving benefits from PERS, they should be notified in the event of a death.
When to Notify
It is advisable to notify PERS as soon as possible after the death. Prompt notification can prevent overpayment of pension benefits and facilitate the process of potential survivors' benefits.
How to Notify
To notify PERS, you can call them at (609) 292-7524. Alternatively, you can mail them a letter with the details of the deceased, including their name, Social Security number, date of death, and your contact information. It's also necessary to include a certified copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
After you've informed PERS, they will stop any ongoing pension payments. They will also provide you with information on any applicable survivor benefits and the necessary steps to claim them. The specifics of these benefits can vary based on the deceased's specific retirement plan.
Tips for Notification
When contacting PERS, have all relevant information and documents at hand. This would include the deceased's Social Security number and PERS membership details. It's also helpful to keep a record of all communications with PERS for future reference.
Conclusion
While it is a difficult task during a challenging time, notifying the New Jersey Public Employees' Retirement System after the death of a loved one is crucial. It ensures the correct handling of the deceased's pension account and allows you to gather information about potential survivor benefits.
FAQ
Q: How long does it take for PERS to process the notification?
A: The processing time may vary. Once PERS receives all necessary documents, they typically process the request within 30-90 days.
Q: What happens if pension payments are received after death?
A: If pension payments continue after the death of the retiree, you should notify PERS promptly. Overpayments will need to be returned.
Q: Are survivor benefits always available?
A: Survivor benefits depend on the specific retirement plan of the deceased. Not all plans offer survivor benefits. PERS can provide detailed information based on the deceased's account.
