October 9, 2024

Veterans... Prepare Your Survivors

This page is intended primarily for the survivors of retirees to help them know and understand the basic processes of reporting their loved ones death while in Korea. But, it is also for us the retirees and veterans to remind us, and help us, get our surviving spouses prepared. We will not go into great detail of procedures or list exact costs of services etc, because each situation is different, with each having its own challenges to deal with and/or overcome. The goal here is to assist with expectations.  If you need further assistance and information, feel free to talk with one of the Retiree and Widow Support Offices.

When To Report A Retiree’s Death

Although this is a difficult time, it’s crucial to report the death of the military retiree promptly. This will help avoid delays and possible financial hardships to surviving beneficiaries and family members. Eligibility for military retired pay ends with the death of the retiree, therefore if a retired pay payment was issued for the month in which the retiree died, the bank will be notified to return the payment. The beneficiary may be due a prorated amount for the month of death, but that would be a separate action through DFAS. Do not however, attempt to return money yourself unless specifically asked to.

How To Report A Retirees Death

We know this will be a trying time, a time of emotion, tears and fear, but it is important for the surviving spouse to have an understanding of expectations and general procedures. There are different scenarios in reporting a death, many depend on where the death occurred, such as at home or in a Korean hospital.  But, the end result in any scenario should always be the same: quick contact with the USFK Casualty Assistance Office (CAO) to inform them of the death.  CAO plays a huge role in the entire process, and is "your friend" when it comes to assisting you through this trying time. It cannot be emphasized enough to contact the Casualty Assistance Office ASAP

If the death occurs in an off-base Korean home:

• It is important to report the death to the proper local authorities.  Contact the Korean Medical Emergency Services 1-1-9 and Police Emergency at 1-1-2.  This will result in an ambulance, police and probably forensic personal coming to your home to collect the body and transport to a local Korea hospital. Do not move body. There may be an investigation by the local authorities.
• While this is happening, or very soon after, contact the USFK Casualty Assistance Office (see POC list) and inform them of the situation.  They will then be there to assist you throughout the process.

If the death occurs in a Korean Hospital:

• Your first call is to the USFK Casualty Assistance Office (see POC list). Ask for a for a Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO) who will assist with everything from that point on. It is critical to contact them immediately so they can advise you through any financial situation that may be occurring due to already being in the hospital.

If the death occurs while admitted in a U.S. Military Hospital:

• The hospital should begin all the notifications in order to begin the process.
• However, it is always best to contact USFK Casualty Assistance Office (see POC list) directly as well.  Chances are good they will already have been notified, have arrived at the hospital and are beginning the process.  But, for piece of mind, call them anyway.

Report the Death to the U.S. Embassy:

• Call the U.S. Embassy at 02-397-4114. The U.S. Embassy will provide a Consular Report of Death of a U.S. Citizen Abroad (U.S. death certificate equivalent).
• You can also call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213
• Or contact the U.S. Embassy Manila Federal Benefit Unit in Manila (FBU Manila) by email at FBU.Manila@ssa.gov to report the death.
• Email to the U.S. Embassy is seoulinfoacs@state.gov
  
  

What to do After The Death Has Been Reported

Read and reference the KOREA MILITARY RETIREE SURVIVOR GUIDE

Overview of Things-To-Do

• Contact Family Members (if known)
• Notify the DFAS / Survivor Benefits Plan (SBP) Casualty Care Team at 1-800-321-1080
• As stated above, notify Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213, or contact the U.S. Embassy Manila FBU by email at FBU.Manila@ssa.gov
• Report the retiree's death to Veteran's Affairs at 1-800-827-1000 and inquire about benefits
• If the deceased was a current or retired federal civilian employee, contact Office of Personnel Management at 888-767-6738
• Reference the KOREA MILITARY RETIREE SURVIVOR GUIDE for a complete list and guide to everything you should do after your loved one is gone.