What Are Union Death Benefits and How Do They Work?

If a person was a member of a labor or trade union they may have had a pension or annuity plan in preparation for retirement. In the event the person dies, named beneficiaries such as a spouse or dependent child may receive financial assistance from union death benefits. This can include ongoing monthly payments known as survivor benefits or a lump-sum payment. The benefit amount tends to vary based on the union and the employment status of the person who died, such as if they were already retired or working part-time or full-time. 

Some unions extend these death benefits to burial and funeral benefits. Union partnerships with specific funeral homes can provide surviving beneficiaries with more affordable pricing and special services accessible only to union members. If the person died in a work-related accident, some unions also cover burial expenses. Since death benefits vary among different unions, the best practice is to contact the union’s local chapter where the person who died maintained membership and ask for assistance in claiming benefits. 

Ultimately, union death benefits are a source of financial and practical support for the family of the person who died. These benefits provide monetary support for honoring the legacy of the person who died and can provide ongoing support in the care of the surviving family. Gaining more insight into which death benefits are available and how to claim them can ensure that responsibilities like making final arrangements or covering general costs are less stressful to manage after the loss. 

Sources

“Claiming Pesions, Veterans, and Other Benefits: Information for Executors and Beneficiaries.” Nolo. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/claiming-pensions-veterans-other-benefits-32435.html 

“Union Benefits for Survivors.” Empathy. https://www.empathy.com/benefits/union-benefits-for-survivors