Notify Social Security. Send a letter with a certified copy of the death certificate to the Retiree Unit, Division of Employee Benefits, Department of Civil Service, State Campus, Albany, NY 12239, to inform that department of the death and to request paperwork if necessary to continue the health insurance for the surviving spouse. Experience has shown that the process sometimes takes the full three months. All retirees should note that addresses need to be kept current with the retirement systems as well as the Department of Civil Service Employee Benefits at the above addresses. Changes must be sent in writing to the above addresses.
Beneficiary information needs to be kept current.
If there is life insurance coverage with a private carrier, contact the local agent of that insurance company. If the deceased left a will, it may be with an attorney, in a safe deposit box, or among personal papers. Be prepared to do a new will. If there is a savings account, check with the bank to find out what happens to the account. For information on Federal income tax, contact the Internal Revenue Service in the city where you normally file that return.