Survivor’s Benefits
- Reporting a Death
- Benefits Payable
- Benefits Available for Parties to a Civil Union
- COLA
- Divorce/QILDRO
When a death occurs in a family we understand it is a difficult time, however, it should be reported to LABF as soon as possible to expedite the procedure. (back to top)
A survivor of an employee should contact LABF to determine if there are any benefits payable. (back to top)
Benefits Available for Parties to a Civil Union
Effective June 1, 2011, the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act confers the rights of marriage available under Illinois law to parties to a civil union. Therefore, all pension benefits previously made available to a married member and his or her spouse, are now also available to a member and his or her civil union partner.
The eligibility requirements for benefits are the same for a civil union partner and married spouse. As in the case of divorce, if a member with a civil union dissolves the union, a QILDRO will be necessary in order for the Fund to divide the member’s benefits.
A copy of the completed certificate from the county clerk or the return provided to the Illinois Department of Public Health is evidence of a civil union. As with marriage certificates, LABF will only accept certified copies of the civil union certificate or the return.
As of June 1, 2011, any LABF publication or communication which includes the word spouse or widow, or any word that denotes the spousal relationship, also means and includes parties to a civil union. (back to top)
Cost of Living Adjustment (“COLA”)
Annual increases do not apply to surviving spouse and child annuitants. (back to top)
If an alternate payee is receiving a monthly retirement benefit at the member’s death, LABF will provide the following:
- Notification of termination of the QILDRO
- Lump sum benefit amount (provided the QILDRO allocates a share of the lump sum death benefit to the alternate payee)
If a member dies while in service, LABF will provide the lump sum benefit amount provided the QILDRO allocates a share of the lump sum death benefit to the alternate payee. (back to top)