Death

Experiencing the death of a loved one may be the most difficult experience you or your family will ever have. If you are reading this before a death has occurred, you may be able to help your family by gathering important information.

If an employee or dependent dies, please send written notice within 30 days to Alliance Benefits:

E-mail: benefits@cmalliance.org
Fax: 719-262-5397
Mail: Alliance Benefits, PO Box 35690, Colorado Springs, CO 80935-3569

You are always welcome to call Alliance Benefits with any questions: 800-700-2651.

Health Plan

If you have claims questions you have not been able to resolve with Highmark, please let us know. Claims may be submitted up to one year from date of service.

If an employee dies:

• Your family may be able to purchase up to 24 months of Coverage Extension, or until you become eligible for any other coverage, whichever comes first.
• Coverage Extension is the same as your current medical plan but includes no life insurance.
• Your existing coverage will end on the last day of the month in which the employee passes away.
• If you accept Coverage Extension, it is retroactive to the ending date and any claims may be submitted retroactively.

If a dependent dies:

• If this changes your level of coverage, for example, from family to couple, we will automatically change your billing for future months, once we receive notice.

Life Insurance

If an employee dies:

• A certified copy of the death certificate will be required.
• A claim form will be sent to the most recently-designated beneficiary(ies).
• We will need employment and pay details from the local employer.
• Occasionally other paperwork is needed.

If a dependent dies:

• If your dependent is covered with C&MA life insurance, please contact us for claim details.
• A certified copy of the death certificate may be required.
• Occasionally other paperwork is needed.

If you (the employee) wish to make any changes to your family’s life insurance coverage (for example, to increase your own coverage), you may request this within 30 days of your dependent’s death. No medical evidence of good health is required in this situation.

403(b) Plan

If an employee dies:

• The beneficiary may be able to leave funds in the account, withdraw subject to applicable taxes, or rollover to a qualified account.
• Please contact Great West for distribution rules and procedures.
• A certified copy of the death certificate will be required.
• Death Benefit Claim Request
• Please contact Alliance Benefits if your address changes.
• If you would like advice regarding a distribution, you may call Strategic Financial Partners at 866-963-1843.

If a dependent dies:

• You may wish to change the amount of your 403(b) contribution based on your new circumstances.
• Please contact your employer to update your paycheck contribution election amount.
• 403(b) Paycheck Contribution Election
• Please contact Alliance Benefits if your address changes.
• If you wish to reevaluate your retirement planning strategy, you may seek advice from Strategic Financial Partners at 866-963-1843.