Reporting a Death to IMRF

for IMRF Retirees
Couple

We understand that dealing with any death is difficult, and we are sorry for your loss.

Letting IMRF know about the death of a member is important to make sure you receive any death benefits you are entitled to as soon as possible.

What you need to do

  1. Telephone an IMRF Member Services Representative at 1-800-ASK-IMRF (1-800-275-4673), Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., to report the death to IMRF.
    Please have the following information ready:
    • The member’s name
    • The last four digits of the member’s Social Security number
    • The date the member passed away
    • Your identity
    • Whether there is a surviving spouse who might be entitled to a benefit.
    • The name and address of the person handling the deceased member’s affairs
  2. IMRF will mail a letter to the person handling the deceased member’s affairs. This letter:
    • Lists the names of the beneficiary(ies) that the member specified
    • Includes any benefit forms that should be completed, such as an "Application for a Death Benefit" form
    • Requests a photocopy of the death certificate and copies of marriage and birth certificates for a surviving spouse.

Additional Information

Questions about Beneficiaries

We cannot provide the names of any beneficiaries over the phone. A letter that includes the member’s names beneficiaries will be mailed to the person handling the deceased member’s affairs.