Following the passing of a loved one, it's essential to notify various parties, including pension providers like the New York State Teachers' Retirement System (NYSTRS). This is a necessary step to cease pension payments and possibly activate survivor benefits.
Who Should Be Notified
If your loved one was a retired teacher in New York State and was receiving pension benefits from NYSTRS, it's crucial to notify them of the death. NYSTRS provides retirement, disability, and death benefits to its members, so you'll need to inform them to stop ongoing payments and discuss potential survivor benefits.
When to Notify
It's recommended to notify NYSTRS as soon as possible following the death of the pensioner to prevent any overpayment of benefits, which could lead to complications down the line.
How to Notify
You can notify NYSTRS by calling their toll-free number (800-348-7298) or by sending a letter to NYSTRS, 10 Corporate Woods Drive, Albany, NY 12211-2395. You will need to provide the deceased's full name, date of birth, and social security number, as well as a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
Upon notification, NYSTRS will stop pension payments and provide information about possible survivor benefits. If the deceased elected a pension payment option that provides a continuing benefit to survivors, NYSTRS will guide you through the process of starting these payments.
Additionally, NYSTRS will discuss any death benefit coverage that may have been in place, which could result in a lump-sum payment to a designated beneficiary.
Tips for Notification
When notifying NYSTRS about a death, keep a record of all communications, including dates and times of calls and copies of written correspondence. This documentation can be helpful in case of any future discrepancies or issues.
Remember to ask any questions you have during this process. NYSTRS representatives are there to assist you during this challenging time.
Conclusion
While it's a challenging task, notifying NYSTRS after the death of a loved one is a crucial step. It ensures the cessation of pension payments and the initiation of any survivor benefits. By understanding the process, you can navigate this task effectively and efficiently during a difficult time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify NYSTRS online?
A: At this time, NYSTRS does not offer an online notification service for reporting a death. You must call or send a letter.
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, NYSTRS may still be able to locate their account using their full name and date of birth. However, having the social security number can expedite the process.
Q: What if NYSTRS made an overpayment after the death?
A: If NYSTRS was not notified promptly and continued to make pension payments, they would typically request the overpaid amount to be returned. Contact NYSTRS directly to discuss this situation.
