How to guide
Why this matters
Many pension plans provide a survivor benefit, typically 50% to 100% of the deceased's benefit, payable for the surviving spouse's lifetime. This income often continues for decades and is easy to miss if the spouse does not know it exists.
Step by step
- Identify the pension provider. Check the deceased's tax returns, bank statements (for monthly pension deposits), and employer or union records.
- Contact the pension plan administrator. Identify yourself as the surviving spouse or beneficiary.
- Request the survivor benefit claim packet. Each plan has its own form.
- Complete the form. Provide: marriage certificate (proving you were married before retirement), certified death certificate, your government ID, and the deceased's Social Security number.
- Submit the packet. Some plans pay a one time death benefit in addition to monthly survivor benefits.
- Set up direct deposit for ongoing monthly payments.
- For federal pensions (CSRS, FERS, military retirement), contact the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) or the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS).
Forms you will need
- Plan specific survivor benefit form
- Marriage certificate
- Certified death certificate
State by state notes
Pension survivor benefits are governed by federal law (ERISA for private pensions). State laws generally do not affect the claim.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming the pension stopped at death. Many provide significant survivor benefits.
- Missing the spousal consent issue. If the deceased elected a single life annuity without spousal consent (after marriage), the survivor may still have claim rights.
- Forgetting smaller pensions from prior employers.
- Not setting up direct deposit, leading to delayed payments.
What to do if you get stuck
If a pension plan is unresponsive, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) can help locate and claim benefits from defunct or merged pension plans.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a pension survivor benefit?
Typically 50% to 100% of the deceased's benefit, depending on the option elected at retirement. The full 100% survivor option costs more upfront.
How long does it take to start receiving payments?
Typically 60 to 90 days from a complete claim. Payments are usually retroactive to the date of death.
Are pension survivor benefits taxable?
Yes, generally taxable as ordinary income, similar to the original pension payments.
What if my spouse elected a single life annuity?
Under ERISA, the spouse must consent in writing to a single life annuity election. If consent was not properly obtained, you may still have a survivor claim.
What about old pensions from previous employers?
Track them down. The PBGC maintains an unclaimed pension search at pbgc.gov/wr/find-an-unclaimed-pension.