Pension Claims for Benefits (Except Disability Pensions)
You must complete an application form available from Retirement Services in order to start a claim for monthly pension benefits. You must promptly inform Retirement Services, preferably in writing, if you believe there is any error in either the information contained in your annual Pension Statement from the Plan, or in any pension payment that you receive.
The Plan will make a benefit determination within a reasonable time, but not later than 90 days after receipt of the claim by the Plan. This 90-day period may be extended, if special circumstances require additional time for processing a claim, for no more than 90 additional days. If an extension is necessary, you will be notified of the reasons and the date by which the Plan expects to render a determination.
In the event of an adverse benefit determination, you will be notified in writing. The notice will include:
The specific reason for the adverse benefit determination.
The specific Plan provision on which the determination was based.
A description of any additional material or information necessary to perfect the claim and an explanation of why this information is necessary.
A statement of the claimant’s right, upon request and free of charge, to access and to receive copies of documents, records and other information relevant to the claim for benefits.
An explanation of the Plan’s appeal procedures, including applicable time limits, and a statement of the claimant’s right to bring a civil action following an adverse benefit determination on appeal.