Dependent vs. Nominee: Who is Entitled to a Death Benefit?

The two main categories are:

• Dependents: The law takes a very broad view to protect those who relied on the deceased. This includes legal dependents (like spouses and children) and factual dependents (anyone who was financially dependent on the deceased at the time of death).
• Nominees: A nominee is a person formally designated by the member on a nomination form. It is crucial to remember that a nomination is only a guiding instruction for the Board. The Board is legally obligated to prioritize the needs of dependents first.

It is important to reiterate that claims are not processed through the deceased's will or estate. The pension fund death benefit is a separate entity that the Board of Trustees manages under specific legislation.