How do pension survivor benefits differ from the life insurance benefits I have with my health coverage?
They are two different benefits provided under two different plans. The AFTRA Health Plan, which has earnings requirements for participation, includes a $30,000 life insurance benefit for participants covered under the Plan. There is also a $5,000 life insurance benefit for participants in the Senior Citizen Health Program. The Retirement Plan provides separate survivor benefits based on accumulated pension credits and pension status. If you participate in both the AFTRA Retirement Plan and either of the health plans listed above, you may be eligible for both benefits.