In the event of a loved one's passing, there are several parties to notify, including various benefit authorities. If your loved one was a public employee in South Carolina and receiving pension benefits, one such important party to inform is the South Carolina Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA).
Who Should Be Notified
PEBA is responsible for administering the retirement benefits of public employees in South Carolina. If your loved one was a retiree or active member of one of these systems, PEBA should be informed of their passing to cease pension payments and discuss possible survivor benefits.
When to Notify
You should notify PEBA as quickly as possible after the death of your loved one. This will help stop pension payments promptly and prevent any overpayment issues.
How to Notify
Notification to PEBA can be done by calling the Customer Contact Center at 803.737.6800 or 888.260.9430. You can also write to PEBA, P.O. Box 11960, Columbia, SC 29211-1960. Include the deceased's full name, Social Security number, date of death, and your contact information.
What to Expect After Notification
Once PEBA is notified, they will cease any ongoing pension benefits. They will also provide information regarding possible survivor benefits, if applicable. An overpayment may occur if the pensioner's death is not reported promptly, in which case the overpayment must be returned.
Tips for Notification
When notifying PEBA, remember to keep a record of all communications including dates, times, and the names of any representatives you speak with. This can be helpful in case of any future discrepancies. Be prepared to provide a copy of the death certificate, if requested.
Conclusion
Notifying PEBA after a loved one's passing is an essential task to ensure the cessation of pension payments and the initiation of potential survivor benefits. With some preparation and understanding of the process, this task can be handled smoothly during a difficult time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify PEBA online?
A: Currently, PEBA does not offer an online notification for the death of a pensioner. They must be contacted by phone or mail.
Q: What happens if an overpayment is made after my loved one's death?
A: If PEBA was not notified promptly and continued to make pension payments, these would be considered overpayments and need to be returned to PEBA.
Q: Can I apply for survivor benefits over the phone?
A: While you can notify PEBA of the death over the phone, you will likely need to complete additional paperwork to apply for survivor benefits.
