Retirement Benefits

How to Report a Death to CalPERS: 5 Key Questions

1 day ago
Older man on phone sitting in front of table with laptop

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult challenges. On top of the emotional toll, it often brings a wave of legal tasks and paperwork, including the need to notify us when a CalPERS member, beneficiary, or survivor has passed away.

To help you manage this task during this difficult time, here are simple answers to key questions.

1. When and why should a death be reported?

Notify us promptly so we can stop benefits and avoid overpayments. Plus, a prompt notification helps us start processing any death benefits and related materials as quickly as possible.

2. Who should report a death?

Anyone — including family members, friends, and employers — can notify CalPERS of a member’s, beneficiary’s, or survivor’s death. In all circumstances, it’s best to notify us as quickly as possible. Doing so will help to prevent overpayment and delays in processing death benefits, and allow members to make any changes to their beneficiary designations if necessary.

While anyone can report a survivor’s or beneficiary’s death, it’s important that members are aware of their current beneficiary on file in case an update to their designation is needed.

3. What information is needed?

When reporting the death, make sure to have this information ready:

  • For the person who died:
    • Full name
    • Date of birth
    • CalPERS ID, Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) (Even without this information, the death can be reported if calling into the CalPERS Customer Contact Center.)
    • Date of death
    • Address or phone number for the member
  • For you:
    • Contact information
  • For spouses and domestic partners:
    • Social Security Number or Individual Tax Identification Number to help accelerate payment
    • Marriage date

4. Where can a death be reported?

  • Online via our website
  • By phone: 888 CalPERS (or 888-225-7377)
  • In person at one of our eight regional offices
  • By mail:
    • CalPERS Disability & Survivor Benefits Division
      Survivor Benefits
      P.O. Box 1652
      Sacramento, CA 95812-1652

5. How can I get help?

You are not alone — we are here to assist and support you. Call us at 888 CalPERS (or 888-225-7377) or visit our website for more information.