MMBB continues to be there for retired members and their families, especially at difficult times.

Here are some steps you may take:

• Be sure to call MMBB for help in coping with this difficult time and with filing for available benefits. If the member was a church member, church members may be eager to help.
  
  
• Learn what will happen to the member's monthly benefit amount. Different retirement income options have different death benefits. Depending on the income option the member chose at retirement, at death his or her monthly benefit amount may stay the same, may reduce or may stop.
  
  
• If the member had any remaining balances in the MMBB retirement plans (not yet converted to monthly income), the balance will be paid to the named beneficiary(ies).
  
  
• If the member retired from active membership with 15 years of premium-paying membership in the Benefits for Life program (formerly the Retirement/Death Benefit Plans), a death benefit is payable.
  
  
• If the member covered eligible dependents for health care coverage, dependents may be able to continue these benefits for a limited time by paying the premiums.
  
  
• Check with the Social Security Administration to stop any retirement benefits that were being paid and to see if any survivor benefits are payable.
  
  
• Notify Medicare of the death, if applicable.
  
  
• You may wish to review your own insurance needs and update your own beneficiary designations.
  
  
• Seek legal counsel for any legal needs at this time, including the duties involved in executing a will, changing property ownership and managing the estate through probate if an estate is required.
  
  
• In times of change, be sure to take care of yourself. Watch your nutrition and exercise, and get help when you need it.