When a loved one passes away, it's important to handle various administrative tasks, including notifying their pension provider. If your loved one was a public employee in Oklahoma, you'll need to notify the Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS). Doing so will help manage any financial affairs associated with their pension.
Who Should Be Notified
The Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) should be notified. OPERS is a government agency that administers retirement benefits for public employees in the state of Oklahoma. If the deceased was receiving a pension from OPERS, it's essential to inform them to stop pension payments and determine if there are any survivor benefits.
When to Notify
You should notify OPERS as soon as possible following the death of a loved one. Prompt notification helps prevent any overpayments of benefits, which could later need to be repaid.
How to Notify
To report a death to OPERS, you can call their office at 1-800-733-9008. You should be prepared to provide the deceased's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Additionally, you'll need to provide a certified copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
After notifying OPERS, they will cease any ongoing pension payments. OPERS will then provide information about potential survivor benefits or a lump-sum payment that may be due to a designated beneficiary or the estate. They may also offer guidance on the necessary paperwork and next steps.
Tips for Notification
Maintain a record of all correspondence with OPERS, including the dates and details of phone calls. This information can be helpful if there are discrepancies or issues in the future. If there is a designated beneficiary, they should be involved in the process.
Conclusion
Informing OPERS about the death of a loved one is a crucial step in managing their final affairs. Although it can be a challenging task during a difficult time, understanding the process and acting promptly can help ensure a smooth transition of benefits.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify OPERS of a death online?
A: Currently, OPERS requires you to call their office to report a death.
Q: What happens if there's an overpayment?
A: If OPERS continues payments after the death because they were not notified promptly, they will usually request the overpayment be returned.
Q: What if there's no named beneficiary for the pension?
A: If there's no named beneficiary, any remaining benefits will be disbursed according to the standard order of precedence, typically starting with the surviving spouse, then children, and so on.
