The passing of a loved one is a difficult time, and the process of dealing with the aftermath can be overwhelming. If you’re the beneficiary of a federal employee, it’s important to know what steps to take to ensure that you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to. As the surviving beneficiary, you may be eligible for survivor benefits, including a survivor annuity, a lump-sum death benefit, and life insurance. However, navigating the complex administrative process involved can be confusing and stressful. We’ll guide you through the steps you need to take to ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve and make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
When a federal employee dies, the process for a beneficiary to follow is as follows:
- Contact the deceased employee’s agency: The first step is to contact the deceased employee’s agency as soon as possible to report the death. The agency will provide guidance on what steps to take next and what benefits may be available.
- Notify the Office of Personnel Management (OPM): The OPM is the agency responsible for administering federal employee benefits. The beneficiary should contact the OPM to report the death and to determine what benefits they may be eligible for.
- Submit a death certificate: The beneficiary should obtain a certified copy of the employee’s death certificate and submit it to the employee’s agency and the OPM.
- Apply for survivor benefits: The beneficiary may be eligible for survivor benefits, which can include a survivor annuity, a lump-sum death benefit, and life insurance. The OPM will provide guidance on how to apply for these benefits.
- Consider other benefits: In addition to survivor benefits, the beneficiary may be eligible for other benefits, such as health insurance coverage, Social Security benefits, and Veterans Affairs benefits.
It’s important for a beneficiary to act quickly and to seek guidance from the appropriate agencies to ensure that they receive all of the benefits they are entitled to. United Benefits can help you with this process. Fill out the form below to get in touch or download our beneficiary guide.