In the wake of a loved one's passing, there are numerous responsibilities to attend to, particularly if your loved one was a member of the Louisiana State Employees' Retirement System (LASERS). Notifying LASERS is crucial to ensure that pension payments are stopped, and any potential survivor benefits are correctly administered.
Who Should Be Notified
If your loved one was a state employee in Louisiana and a member of LASERS, it's essential to notify this organization. LASERS is responsible for administering retirement benefits to state employees, and they need to know about the member's passing to adjust their records and benefits accordingly.
When to Notify
You should notify LASERS as soon as possible following the death of a loved one. Prompt notification helps to prevent overpayment of benefits and ensures that any survivor benefits can be processed in a timely manner.
How to Notify
You can notify LASERS by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-256-3000, or by mail. You'll need to provide the deceased's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and date of death. You will also need to submit a certified copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
After notifying LASERS of the death, they will stop any pension payments. If there are survivor benefits, they will guide you through the process of applying for those. The organization will also be able to answer any questions you may have regarding the member's account or benefits.
Tips for Notification
When contacting LASERS, it's useful to have a pen and paper on hand to take notes. Keep a record of who you spoke to, the date and time of the call, and any important information or instructions they give you. This can be helpful if there are any discrepancies or issues in the future.
Conclusion
While it can be a challenging task, notifying LASERS after the death of a loved one is a crucial step in handling their affairs. It helps to ensure that any overpayments are prevented, and that survivor benefits are processed in a timely manner. With a little preparation, you can navigate this task successfully during a difficult time.
FAQ
Q: What if I don't have all the required information?
A: Contact LASERS anyway. They may be able to locate the member's account with partial information. However, having all the requested information will expedite the process.
Q: What happens if there are overpayments?
A: If pension payments continue after the member's death, LASERS will generally request these funds to be returned. Contact them as soon as possible to prevent this situation.
Q: Can I apply for survivor benefits on behalf of someone else?
A: Generally, the person entitled to the benefits should apply. However, if they are unable to do so, contact LASERS for guidance.
