The death of a loved one is a difficult time, and amidst the emotional turmoil, there are administrative tasks to handle. If your loved one was a member of the Wyoming Retirement System (WRS), it's essential to notify them in order to cease benefits or discuss potential survivor benefits. This post will guide you through the process.
Who Should Be Notified
The Wyoming Retirement System (WRS) should be notified in the event of a member's death. WRS manages retirement funds for public employees in Wyoming, including teachers, law enforcement officers, judges, and firefighters. The death of a member may affect the distribution of pension funds and other benefits.
When to Notify
It's important to notify WRS as soon as possible following the death of a member. This ensures that benefit payments can be stopped promptly and that any due benefits or claims can be processed.
How to Notify
Notification should be done by contacting the WRS directly. You can call them at (307) 777-7691 or toll-free at 1-800-989-9324. You'll need to provide the deceased's full name, social security number, date of birth, and date of death. You will also be required to provide a copy of the death certificate.
What to Expect After Notification
After notifying WRS, they will review the deceased's account and determine any applicable benefits. If the deceased chose a pension option with survivor benefits, those benefits would typically be transferred to the designated beneficiary. The WRS will provide details on how these funds will be disbursed.
You may also receive information about potential life insurance payouts if the deceased had a life insurance policy through WRS.
Tips for Notification
Ensure you have all necessary documents on hand before reaching out to WRS. Be mindful to keep a record of all correspondence, including names of representatives you spoke with, dates, and the content of the discussion. This will be useful for future reference.
Conclusion
Notifying the Wyoming Retirement System after a loved one's passing is a critical step for settling their affairs. Although dealing with these matters can be challenging, understanding the process can make it less daunting. Remember, the WRS is there to assist you during this difficult time.
FAQ
Q: What if I can't find the deceased's WRS member information?
A: If you're unable to locate this information, contact WRS directly. They can often locate 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 plan or state law.
Q: Can I notify WRS by mail?
A: Yes, you can notify WRS by mail. However, for immediate attention, it's often faster to call them directly.
