Expert: Allen - 9/7/2010

Question
My father was killed 1 month before his 55th birthday and was to start receiving payments for a 10 yr certain life annuity the month following his birthday.  My question is, as the beneficiary of this annuity, am I entitled to ANY of his vested funds?

Answer
Sorry to read about your loss.

The answer to your question depends on the terms of the plan. You are dealing with what is known as a pre retirement death benefit. Some plans provide one. Others don't. Contact the plan administrator to find out if the plan provides this benefit.

If the answer is no, ask for a copy of the Summary Plan Description for the plan. It will give the details on the benefits provided.