What My Family Needs to Know at My Death

Multiple Beneficiaries

You can designate multiple beneficiaries on your WAEPA Group Term Life Insurance* policy. The proceeds can be split according to your wishes, so long as the beneficiaries named are still living. Designations should be specified in percentages, and when combined they should equal 100%. If a named primary beneficiary refuses designated benefits or predeceases you, the benefits will be paid to any remaining beneficiaries.

It is recommended that you keep the addresses and phone numbers of each of your beneficiaries up-to-date. Additionally, it’s wise to properly record significant events in your life and in the life of your beneficiaries, such as name changes, marriage, the birth of a child, or a new business venture, to ensure the claim process goes as smoothly as possible.

Storing the Policy Documents

One of the most important steps you can take after initiating a Group Term Life Insurance policy from WAEPA is to let your beneficiaries know that it exists. There are several ways you can ensure your heirs find the information they need.

Many WAEPA policyholders elect to store their important documents in a safe or lockbox. Make sure the beneficiary can find the codes or keys to access its contents. Please note that in many states, safety deposit boxes are sealed upon your death. If policy documents are enclosed in one, it could delay the payout of your claim.

If you keep your policy information on your computer or cloud drive, it is crucial that your beneficiaries can access your digital files. Storing passwords in a safe, yet handy location can help them get the information they need quickly and easily.

How to Claim Life Insurance

To file a claim, WAEPA requires a completed claim form and death certificate. We may also request proof of Federal employment with documents such as an SF-50, a retirement card, or a CSRS/FERS annuity statement.

If you don’t wish to compile your statement of benefits with your documents, keep your six-digit WAEPA Member Certificate Number handy so that we can quickly locate your policy information when the time comes. If you’re unsure what your Member Certificate Number is, it is a six-digit code that may be found on WAEPA correspondence or your Statement of Benefits. You may also call our Member Services team to request your Member Certificate Number.

Our printable Claim Form makes it easy to get a snapshot of our claims process. Advise your beneficiaries that upon your death, WAEPA will need to be notified by phone or email. A certified Certificate of Death is also necessary to file a claim.