Survivor Benefits (Retirees)
What if I pre-decease my benefit dependents?
The dependent spouse or domestic partner of an eligible retiree who dies is eligible to purchase Welfare Fund survivor benefits as long as the surviving spouse/domestic partner is over 65, enrolled in Medicare, and has not elected COBRA benefits coverage. Purchase of Survivor Benefits may be made in lieu of COBRA or after COBRA benefits expire. These benefits do NOT include basic medical/hospital insurance.
For a premium charge the Welfare Fund provides the following benefits:
Here are the annual premium charges for 2023:
- Prescription Drugs, Vision, Hearing Aids, and Guardian Dental coverage – $2159
- Vision, Hearing Aids, and Guardian Dental coverage (No Rx Drug Coverage) – $972
- Prescription Drugs, Vision, Hearing Aids, and Delta Dental coverage – $1633
- Vision, Hearing Aids, and Delta Dental coverage (No Rx Drug Coverage) – $446
- Prescription Drug Coverage ONLY – $1307
It is the responsibility of the surviving spouse/domestic partner/covered dependent to notify the Welfare Fund office of the death of the covered retiree. The surviving spouse/domestic partner/covered dependent has 30 days from the date of notification to decide to purchase benefits. Spouse/domestic partner/covered dependents must continue to meet the requirements of eligibility under the Welfare Fund. The coverage is available only to those without other comparable coverage. Failure to pay the premium will discontinue coverage permanently. Application forms are provided upon notification of the Fund, 212-354-5230.