In the wake of losing a loved one, part of the process includes notifying necessary organizations such as the Alaska Retirement Management Board (ARMB) if your loved one was a beneficiary. This is an important step to stop pension payments and find out about possible survivor benefits.
Who Should Be Notified
The Alaska Retirement Management Board (ARMB) is a state agency that manages the retirement benefits for state employees. If your loved one was a retired state employee receiving pension benefits, it's important to notify the ARMB to avoid overpayments and to discuss potential survivor benefits.
When to Notify
The ARMB should be notified as soon as possible after the death of your loved one to prevent any potential overpayments of benefits. This will also allow the ARMB to provide you with information about any possible benefits for survivors.
How to Notify
You can notify the ARMB of a death by calling the ARMB Contact Center at (907) 465-4460. They will guide you through the process. You will likely need to provide a copy of the death certificate, so it's helpful to have this available.
What to Expect After Notification
After notification, the ARMB will stop any ongoing pension payments. They will also provide information about any potential survivor benefits. This could include a lump-sum death benefit or a monthly survivor benefit, depending on the specific pension plan of the deceased.
Tips for Notification
When you call the ARMB, have all necessary information on hand. This includes the deceased's full name, Social Security number and the specifics of their retirement plan, if known. Always keep a record of any communications with the ARMB for future reference.
Conclusion
Notifying the ARMB of the death of a loved one is a crucial step in handling their affairs. This process will ensure that pension payments are stopped and that you receive any potential survivor benefits you may be entitled to. With the right preparation and understanding of the process, you can navigate this task during a challenging time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify the ARMB online?
A: Currently, the ARMB does not offer an online process to report a death. You must call them directly.
Q: What if I don't have the information about my loved one's retirement plan?
A: The ARMB can usually locate the pension plan using the deceased's full name and Social Security number. However, having details of their retirement plan can speed up the process.
Q: What if my loved one received overpayments after their death?
A: If the ARMB 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 the ARMB.
