The passing of a loved one is a challenging time, and the responsibilities that come with it can be overwhelming. If your deceased loved one was a part of the Rhode Island Employees' Retirement System (ERSRI), it's important to notify them promptly. This process is essential to halt pension payments and determine any possible survivor benefits.
Who Should Be Notified
The ERSRI should be notified about the death of any member, active or retired, who was part of the system. This allows them to stop any ongoing pension payments and provide information about potential survivor benefits.
When to Notify
You should notify the ERSRI as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. This will help prevent any overpayments and will help expedite the process of potential survivor benefits.
How to Notify
To notify the ERSRI, you can call their customer service at 1-401-462-7600. Alternatively, you can write to them at the Employees' Retirement System of Rhode Island, 50 Service Ave, Warwick, RI 02886. Be prepared to provide the deceased's Social Security number and a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
After notifying the ERSRI, they will stop the deceased’s pension payments and guide you through the process of applying for any survivor benefits. Survivor benefits can vary depending on the specific retirement plan the deceased was enrolled in.
Tips for Notification
Maintain a record of all interactions with the ERSRI, noting dates and times of phone calls or mailings. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, don't hesitate to ask. The ERSRI is there to provide assistance during this challenging time.
Conclusion
While it's a difficult task, notifying the Rhode Island Employees' Retirement System after the death of a loved one is an essential step. Understanding the process can help make it more manageable during a challenging time.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify the ERSRI online?
A: Currently, the ERSRI does not have a system in place to notify them of a death online. You must call or write to them.
Q: What if I don't know the deceased's Social Security number?
A: If you don't know the deceased’s Social Security number, the ERSRI may be able to locate the account with the deceased's full name and date of birth.
Q: How long does it take to process survivor benefits?
A: The processing time for survivor benefits can vary, but generally, it takes about 4-6 weeks once all the required documentation is received.
