Does My Wife Get My Annuity?

Does My Wife Get My Annuity?

YES. If a member passes away, their spouse or eligible life partner is entitled to a portion of the annuity they were receiving. This applies whether the member dies while still in service or after retirement, as long as they had at least 10 years of pensionable service. Death benefits are provided to help ensure the financial security of the family.

The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) also pays annuities to surviving spouses or orphaned children when a member dies in service or after retiring. If a member passes away while still working, the benefit is based on their years of service and is paid to their designated beneficiaries or, if there are none, to their estate.

For members who die after retirement, annuities are guaranteed for five years. If the member passes away during this time, their beneficiaries will receive the remaining balance of the five-year annuity payments as a lump sum, excluding any annual supplements.

These arrangements are designed to ensure that a member’s family is taken care of financially, whether the death occurs during their working years or after retirement.

What is An Annuity?

An annuity is a financial product from insurance companies that gives you regular payments, usually during retirement, in exchange for a lump sum or a series of contributions. It is meant to provide a steady income after you stop working.

Depending on the terms, an annuity can pay you for a set number of years or the rest of your life. Many people use annuities as part of their retirement plan to ensure a reliable income stream. It can also offer financial security for your spouse or beneficiaries.

How To Access GEPF Annuity

When a pensioner passes away, the spouse must complete the Application for Spouse Pension (Z143) form and submit it to the GEPF, along with the following documents:

• A certified copy (not older than six months) of the spouse’s green bar-coded ID.
• A certified copy (not older than six months) of the pensioner’s death certificate.
• A certified copy (not older than six months) of the pensioner’s green bar-coded ID or passport and confirmation of death from the Department of Home Affairs.
• A certified copy of the marriage certificate—whether religious, customary, or civil—issued by Home Affairs.

Alternatively, proof of marriage can be provided with a certified copy of a customary union certificate, Hindu certificate, or a lobola affidavit, along with confirmation of the custom.

GEPF CONTACT DETAILS

Toll free number: 08 00 117 669
Fax: 012 326 2507

enquiries@gepf.co.za

Postal Address
GEPF Private Bag X63,
Pretoria,
0001

Visit the official website of the Government Employees Pension Fund for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful, share your thoughts below in the comment section.