My father worked for a big chain for a long time until he passed away in 1996. In a recent family gathering, the issue of his death benefit came up and we realized that nobody ever filed a claim for it. We have no clue whether this benefit was paid off and if so when and to whom. So we called the benefit office and were told that they will get back to us in writing. It's been over two weeks now and we have not heard a thing. We believe that my father is indeed entitled to have his death benefit paid to his surviving wife. Do we have to retain a lawyer for this ? How can I force this employer to come forward with all the facts without having to spend money on hiring a lawyer ? Thanks.

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Originally Posted by moonlite

My father worked for a big chain for a long time until he passed away in 1996. In a recent family gathering, the issue of his death benefit came up and we realized that nobody ever filed a claim for it. We have no clue whether this benefit was paid off and if so when and to whom. So we called the benefit office and were told that they will get back to us in writing. It's been over two weeks now and we have not heard a thing. We believe that my father is indeed entitled to have his death benefit paid to his surviving wife. Do we have to retain a lawyer for this ? How can I force this employer to come forward with all the facts without having to spend money on hiring a lawyer ? Thanks.

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I'd give them some time to locate their records and respond to you in writing. Two weeks is not a terribly long time when you're dealing with a corporate office.

It would appear that you have no standing here - the inquuiry should have been made by his surviving spouse and the information should be sent to her. That might be the delay.

Sorry, I should have mentioned also that my mother is elderly and can't do anything on her own - which is why she gave me a Power-of-Attorney to handle this matter on her behalf. Thanks for your advice. I will give them more time I guess.

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Originally Posted by moonlite

Sorry, I should have mentioned also that my mother is elderly and can't do anything on her own - which is why she gave me a Power-of-Attorney to handle this matter on her behalf. Thanks for your advice. I will give them more time I guess.

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If you only called and asked for the info I'd follow up in writing.