Using death benefits
Your employer is responsible for the cost of death benefits coverage under the Death and Disability Plan and for your enrollment, apart from supplemental death benefits coverage. You, a family member, or other authorized person should report the death of a covered member to the Board of Pensions as soon as possible.
The Term Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Plan is a separate plan from the Death and Disability Plan. Access details for coverage through the Term Life and AD&D Plan.
How to enroll for death benefits
Your employer will enroll you for death benefits coverage through the Death and Disability Plan, if offered to you. You do not need to enroll; however, you must designate a beneficiary on Benefits Connect.
If your employer offers supplemental death benefits coverage to you, you may apply for coverage but are not required to.
Your cost for death benefits
Your employer pays the full cost for death benefits under the Death and Disability Plan. You may not contribute.
If you enroll for supplemental death benefits coverage, your employer may pay some, none, or all of the cost. Your payment is whatever remains after your employer’s contribution.
Applying for and receiving benefits
Generally, when your family member or survivor reports your death to the Board of Pensions, the Board sends a Death Benefits Claim form to your spouse, beneficiary, and, when applicable, covered dependents. The Board will pay benefits once it receives a completed form, a copy of the death certificate, and any outstanding pension and/or disability overpayments, if applicable.
Appeals
If your beneficiary(ies) disagree with a death benefits decision, they may appeal. The appeals process is described in Guide to Your Death Benefits.