REPORTING OF DEATH OF AN ERS RETIREE, BENEFICIARY, OR ALTERNATE PAYEE

Here’s a checklist and information to assist in the reporting a death and the death claim process:

• Notify the ERS of the death by phone at (808) 586-1735. Be ready to report:
  • Full Name with Middle Initial and full Social Security Number of deceased;
  • Status: Retiree, Beneficiary, or Alternate Payee (Hawaii Domestic Relations Order)
  • Date of death;
  • Name, address, and phone number of contact person.

Once ERS is notified of a death, the following actions will occur:

• ERS will send a letter to the beneficiary explaining death benefits payable, if any, and the required death claim forms to complete. 
• If death benefits are available, the beneficiary must submit an original death certificate and file the death claims forms, which include tax form(s) and a direct deposit form. Any estate payments will require additional forms. Please note the beneficiary has three years to file for the death benefits.
• Upon receipt of all the required forms/documents, death payments will be processed within 1-2 months.

Here are some other agencies and organizations that are commonly contacted:

• Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund (EUTF) at (808) 586-7390. Surviving spouse and dependent children may be entitled for family health coverage and life insurance benefits.
• Employee union organizations for possible life insurance benefits
• Banking institutions or credit unions
• Deferred compensation plans and/or tax shelter annuities
• Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (survivor benefits)
• Veterans Affairs (VA) at 1-800-827-1000
• Insurance companies