When a loved one passes away, notifying various institutions is a necessary step in wrapping up their affairs. If the deceased was a member of the New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS), it is crucial to notify them as soon as possible.
Who Should Be Notified
The NYSLRS is a public pension fund that provides benefits to state and local government employees in New York. If your loved one was a member of this retirement system, you need to notify NYSLRS of their passing to stop pension payments and inquire about possible survivor benefits.
When to Notify
You should notify NYSLRS as soon as possible after the death of a loved one. This helps prevent any overpayments of benefits and ensures that any potential survivor benefits can be processed promptly.
How to Notify
Notifying NYSLRS can be done by calling their Call Center at 1-866-805-0990 or 518-474-7736 in the Albany, New York area. You may also write a letter to NYSLRS at 110 State Street, Albany, NY 12244-0001. When notifying NYSLRS, be prepared to provide the deceased's name, date of death, social security number, registration number, and a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
After you notify NYSLRS of the member's death, they will stop any ongoing pension payments and inform you about any potential survivor benefits. The NYSLRS also provides a death benefit to the beneficiary designated by the member. They will guide you through the process and provide you with all the necessary information.
Tips for Notification
When notifying NYSLRS, maintain a record of all communications, including the date and time of phone calls or the sending of letters. This documentation can be helpful if any discrepancies occur later. Be sure to ask any questions you may have; the NYSLRS staff is there to assist you during this challenging time.
Conclusion
While difficult, notifying NYSLRS of a loved one's passing is a necessary task. By doing so promptly and efficiently, you can ensure the cessation of their pension payments and potentially unlock survivor benefits. Armed with the right information and a clear understanding of the process, you can successfully navigate this task amidst a challenging time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify NYSLRS online?
A: Currently, NYSLRS 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 NYSLRS. Prompt notification helps prevent such overpayments.
Q: What if I don't have the member's registration number?
A: If you don't have the member's registration number, NYSLRS can still locate the member's record using their full name and social security number.
