Mortality isn’t something we generally want to discuss but it will affect us all. USS provides a variety of death benefits as standard.
Benefits are payable if you die while still paying into the scheme or if you have left but retain a pension in the scheme, and if you die in retirement.
If you die whilst you are an active member of the scheme, your employer will liaise with your family and USS to organise death benefit payments.
If you die whilst you are in receipt of a USS pension or have left the scheme and retained a USS pension, a family member or representative should telephone USS and ask to speak to a member of the death benefits team, or write to USS to inform us of your death.
Take a look at the following factsheets & booklets for full information on the benefits:
Members currently paying into the scheme – Death in Service Factsheet
- Life cover of 3 X annual salary on death
- Pension for eligible survivors
Members who have left but retain a pension in the scheme – Leaving the Scheme Booklet
Lump-sum payment on death of 3 X pension value
- Pension for eligible survivors
Members who are receiving their pension – Payment of Retirement Benefits Booklet
- Potential lump sum in some cases on death within initial 5 years of retirement
- Pension for eligible survivors
Keep us informed who should receive these benefits:
All members should complete a Expression of Wish Form and if you are not married or not part of a civil partnership you can nominate a financial dependant to receive the equivalent of the spouse’s pension by completing the Registration of Potential Dependant Form.