The death of a loved one can be very difficult on many levels. While AFTRA H&R understands that there are many things to be done following a death, please remember to inform AFTRA H&R as soon as possible.
For the AFTRA Health Plan …
You must notify AFTRA H&R within 90 days of the death of an enrolled Health Plan participant or dependent. In the case of a participant’s death, you also must submit a copy of the recorded death certificate.
If an enrolled participant has active family coverage at the time of his or her death, any dependents under the Health Plan may continue to be covered for the remainder of the current coverage period as long as the quarterly premiums are paid on time.
If an enrolled participant has active family coverage but also qualifies for AFTRA H&R’s Senior Citizen Health Program coverage at the time of his or her death, the rules regarding continuation of coverage are complex. If this situation applies to you, contact Participant Services at (800) 562-4690 for information.
Also note that if a participant is enrolled in individual or family Health Plan coverage at the time of death, a designated beneficiary is entitled to a $30,000 lump sum life insurance benefit upon submission of a claim. All claims should be submitted in writing to AFTRA H&R on a completed Proof of Death Form within 90 days of the enrolled participant’s death, or as soon as reasonably possible.
If a dependent who is your beneficiary dies, you will want to designate another beneficiary as soon as possible. For the life insurance benefit included with the AFTRA Health Plan, update your beneficiary by as soon as possible by returning a completed Performer Enrollment Form.
For the AFTRA Retirement Plan …
You should notify AFTRA H&R as soon as reasonably possible after the death of a performer who is vested or receiving a pension under the AFTRA Retirement Plan. This is important to cease any monthly pension being paid to the performer and also to begin to process any survivor benefits which may be applicable.
For any life event affecting your coverage, you must notify AFTRA H&R in writing, along with supporting documentation, at the address below:
AFTRA Health & Retirement Funds
Attention: Eligibility Department
261 Madison Avenue, 7th floor
New York, NY 10016
Financial assistance and resources
AFTRA H&R understands that the death of a loved one can be the most difficult of times. Not only is the death of a loved one difficult emotionally, but sometimes it also can result in financial hardship. While AFTRA Health Plan premiums still must be paid on time to ensure continued coverage, resources that provide assistance with paying your premiums may be available to you .
For definitions of some of the terms listed on this page, visit the online health and retirement glossaries.
Questions? Call Participant Services at (800) 562-4690.
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