In the event of a loved one's passing, there are many tasks to be handled, one of which is notifying relevant institutions. If your loved one was a member of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS), it's crucial to inform them in order to stop benefits or discuss potential survivor benefits. This post will guide you through the process.
Who Should Be Notified
The Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) should be notified in the case of a member's death. OPERS provides retirement, disability, survivor, and health care benefits to public employees across Ohio. The death of a member could affect the distribution of these benefits.
When to Notify
It's important to notify OPERS as soon as possible following the death of a member. Prompt notification ensures that benefit payments are stopped in a timely manner and any potential survivor benefits can be processed.
How to Notify
To notify OPERS, you should contact them directly. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-222-7377. You will need to provide the full name, social security number, date of birth, and date of death of the deceased. A copy of the death certificate will also be required.
What to Expect After Notification
After notifying OPERS, they will review the deceased's account and determine any applicable benefits. If the deceased had chosen a pension plan with survivor benefits, those benefits would typically be transferred to the designated beneficiary. OPERS will provide details on how these funds will be disbursed.
You may also receive information about health care continuation options if the deceased had a health care plan through OPERS.
Tips for Notification
Before reaching out to OPERS, ensure you have all necessary information and documents ready. It's helpful to maintain records of all correspondence, including the names of representatives you spoke with, dates, and the content of the conversation. This can be beneficial for future reference.
Conclusion
Notifying the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System after a loved one's passing is a key step in settling their affairs. Even though it can be a challenging process, understanding the steps involved can help make it less daunting. Remember, the OPERS staff are there to assist you during this challenging time.
FAQ
Q: What if I can't find the deceased's OPERS member information?
A: If you're unable to locate this information, contact OPERS directly. They can often find the member's account with their full name and date of birth.
Q: What happens if the deceased didn't designate a beneficiary?
A: If no beneficiary was designated, any remaining funds in the account will typically be disbursed according to the terms of the pension plan or state law.
Q: Can I notify OPERS by mail?
A: Yes, you can notify OPERS by mail. However, for a quicker response, it's often best to call them directly.
