In the aftermath of a loved one's passing, it's necessary to notify various institutions about the sad event. If the deceased belonged to the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (SRPS), it's important to let them know as soon as possible to prevent overpayment of benefits and to discuss any potential survivor benefits.
Who Should Be Notified
The Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (SRPS) provides retirement, disability, death, and survivor benefits to Maryland state employees, teachers, police, correctional officers, and other designated officials. If your loved one was a member of SRPS, you must notify them to stop pension payments and discuss any potential survivor benefits.
When to Notify
You should notify SRPS as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. This is crucial to prevent overpayments and to ensure that any potential survivor benefits can be processed promptly.
How to Notify
You can notify SRPS by calling their customer service at 410-625-5555 or toll free at 1-800-492-5909. You can also write a letter and send it to Maryland State Retirement Agency, 120 East Baltimore St, Baltimore, MD 21202. When notifying SRPS, you should provide the deceased's name, date of death, social security number, and a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
Once you notify SRPS of the member's passing, they will halt any ongoing pension payments. They will also provide you with information about any potential survivor benefits, which could include a lump sum payment or continuing monthly benefits, depending on the deceased member's plan.
Tips for Notification
Keep a record of all your communications with SRPS, including the date and time of phone calls or the sending of letters. This can be helpful if any issues arise later. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification, as the SRPS staff is there to assist you during this difficult time.
Conclusion
While it's a challenging task, notifying SRPS of a loved one's passing is crucial. It ensures the cessation of their pension payments and the potential provision of survivor benefits. With the right information and a clear understanding of the process, you can navigate this task successfully during a challenging time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify SRPS online?
A: Currently, SRPS does not offer an online service to report a death. You need to call them or send a letter.
Q: What happens if the pension payments continue after the member's death?
A: Any payments made after the member's death must be returned to SRPS. Prompt notification helps prevent such overpayments.
Q: What if I don't have the member's social security number?
A: If you don't have the member's social security number, SRPS can still locate the member's record using their full name and date of birth.
