In the wake of losing a loved one, among the vital duties is to inform various institutions of the death. If your loved one was a recipient of pension from the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), it's essential to notify them in a timely manner to cease payments and inquire about any possible survivor benefits.
Who Should Be Notified
The IMRF should be informed if the deceased was a retired municipal employee receiving pension benefits. This action is necessary to stop pension payments and let the IMRF provide information about potential survivor or death benefits.
When to Notify
You should inform the IMRF as soon as possible after the death of the retiree. This prompt action helps prevent any overpayment of pension benefits that might need to be reimbursed.
How to Notify
To notify the IMRF of a death, you can call their Member Services Department or send a written notification through the mail. You will need to provide the deceased's full name, Social Security number, and date of death. It's also necessary to send a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
Once you've notified the IMRF, they will cease the pension payments. If there are survivor benefits or a death benefit associated with the pension, they will guide you on how to apply for these. The specifics will depend on the deceased's plan and any beneficiary designations they made.
Tips for Notification
When notifying the IMRF, maintain a record of all communications, including the date and time of calls or letters. This can be beneficial for future reference. Don't hesitate to ask questions if you're unsure about the process or need additional information.
Conclusion
While it's a tough task amidst dealing with loss, notifying the IMRF after the death of a loved one is an important responsibility. It ensures the accurate handling of their pension payments and potential survivor benefits, aiding in settling their affairs in an orderly manner.
FAQ
Q: What if I don't have the deceased's Social Security number?
A: If you don't have the deceased's Social Security number, you can contact IMRF for guidance. They may be able to locate the retiree's account with other identifying information.
Q: Can I notify IMRF online?
A: Currently, IMRF does not offer an online notification service. You'll need to call or send a notification via mail.
Q: What happens if the pension was overpaid after the retiree's death?
A: If pension benefits were overpaid due to late notification to IMRF, the system typically seeks repayment. To avoid this, it's best to notify them as promptly as possible.
