The process of losing a loved one involves a multitude of tasks, one of which is notifying relevant institutions about the death. If your loved one was a retired employee of Los Angeles County, it's important to inform the Los Angeles County Employees Retirement Association (LACERA), their pension provider. This step ensures the cessation of pension payments and the initiation of any potential survivor benefits.
Who Should Be Notified
LACERA administers retirement, disability, and death benefits for the employees of Los Angeles County and outside districts. If your loved one was receiving pension benefits from LACERA, it's crucial to notify them about the death as soon as possible.
When to Notify
It's recommended to notify LACERA immediately following the death of a member to prevent overpayment of benefits, which may lead to complex reimbursement processes.
How to Notify
You can notify LACERA about the death of a member by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-786-6464. Have the member's retirement number or social security number on hand. You will also need to send a copy of the death certificate to LACERA's office by mail. The address is LACERA, P.O. Box 7060, Pasadena, CA 91109-7060.
What to Expect After Notification
Once LACERA has been notified, they'll stop the pension payments and provide information about the process for applying for any survivor benefits, if applicable. These benefits depend on the retirement plan your loved one chose. LACERA will also provide information regarding what to do if there has been an overpayment of benefits.
Tips for Notification
When contacting LACERA, make sure to keep a record of all correspondence, including the date and time of your call and the name of the representative you spoke with. This can be useful if there are any discrepancies or issues later.
Conclusion
While it can be a challenging task during a difficult time, notifying LACERA after the passing of a retired Los Angeles County employee is crucial. It ensures the termination of pension payments and the initiation of survivor benefits, if applicable. By understanding the process, you can navigate this responsibility smoothly and efficiently.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify LACERA online?
A: Currently, there isn't an online process to report a death to LACERA. You need to call them and then send a copy of the death certificate by mail.
Q: What if there's been an overpayment of benefits?
A: If the pension payments continued after the death because LACERA wasn't notified promptly, you'd typically need to arrange for the return of these funds. Contact LACERA for more information.
Q: How long does it take to process survivor benefits?
A: The processing time can vary depending on the complexity of the case. LACERA will provide more specific information when you notify them of the death.
