PUBLIC EMPLOYEES BENEFIT TRUST (PEBT) BENEFITS REPORT
Volume 5, Issue 3

Notify PacFed of Life Changes

You and your family members are entitled to some of the best benefits in the country. In order to fully maximize these benefits, PacFed should be updated when there are changes in your family.

If you get married, your new spouse is entitled to share in the benefits that you receive. As soon as you both say your "I so's," obtain an Enrollment Form from your Local Union or the Trust Fund office and return the form with a copy of your marriage certificate attached.

If your family is expecting a baby or adopts a child (including placement for adoption), send a new Enrollment Form with a copy of the birth certificate or adoption papers to the Fund Office to begin coverage immediately.

You must contact PacFed within 30 days of the birth of a new baby in order to assure that the baby is covered. Your new baby is automatically covered by your medical benefits for the first 30 days only.

If a divorce separates you from your spouse, it is your responsibility to let PacFed know. If you do not report this event and your ex-spouse uses the once-allowed benefits, you may be responsible for any submitted and paid claims on his or her behalf. Send PacFed an updated Enrollment Form and attach a copy of the dissolution judgment that was filed in court. Be sure to include the page that shows the date your marriage ended.

It is just as important to notify PacFed when you move as it is when your family structure changes. Even if you have notified your Union and employer, the Trust Fund may not know of your new address.

If you are a retiree with coverage under the Trust Fund and you marry, have a baby or adopt after retiring, you must submit a new Enrollment Form to PacFed within 31 days of the change of status.

One aspect of life is death and though it may be difficult to cope with grief and subsequent changes, the Trust Fund is still working for you. Survivors are entitled to certain survivor benefits. Tell your beneficiary to contact your Union Local or Trust Fund when you die. Also, when a covered dependent dies, call for personal assistance.