How to Claim Pension After the Death of Your Husband in Kenya

how to claim pension after death of husband

Losing a spouse is a difficult and emotional experience.

Along with coping with the loss, you may also need to navigate the process of claiming your husband’s pension.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through this process in Kenya.

Step 1: Report to the Life Cover Provider

Immediate Action

Contact the life cover provider to inform them about your husband’s passing.

Example

TSC AON insurance provides last expense cover within 72 hours to cover funeral expenses when a teacher dies.

Step 2: Seek and Claim Pension

Work with Employer

Collaborate with your husband’s former employer to initiate the pension claim process.

Contact Pensions Department

Get in touch with the Pensions Department in Kenya to claim your husband’s pension.

Documents Required

Gather the necessary documents for the claim process.

Marriage Certificate

If you have the marriage certificate, submit the original for verification and return the form as requested.

Tribal Customary Marriage

If your marriage was under tribal customary laws, request one of your parents and one of your late husband’s parents or close blood relatives to complete parts of the claim form on your behalf before a commissioner for oaths or a magistrate personally.

Additional Documents

A photocopy of your identity card certified by the chief of your location as a true copy of the original.
Original birth certificates of the deceased’s children who were below the age of 16/21 years or above that age but still undergoing full-time education. A letter from the headmaster confirming full-time education must be attached.
The deceased officer’s original death certificate.
An original signed and stamped letter from your area chief detailing a list of dependants of the deceased, their relationship, and age.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Completion of Forms

Ensure all forms are completed accurately and submitted as instructed.

Verification Process

The submitted documents will undergo a verification process by the relevant authorities.

Step 4: Await Pension Approval

Processing Time

The processing time for pension approval may vary.

Contact Information

Stay in touch with the Pensions Department for updates on your claim.

Conclusion

Claiming your husband’s pension after his death in Kenya involves several steps, including reporting to the life cover provider, working with the employer and pensions department, and submitting the required documents.

By following this guide, you can navigate the process more efficiently during this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Claiming Pension After Death Of Husband In Kenya

Q: How long does it take to process a pension claim after the death of my husband?

A: The processing time for a pension claim can vary from a month to six months.

It is advisable to stay in touch with the Pensions Department for updates on the status of your claim.

Q: What documents do I need to submit to claim my husband’s pension?

A: You will need to submit the following documents:

A photocopy of your identity card certified by the chief of your location.
The deceased officer’s original death certificate.
An original signed and stamped letter from your area chief detailing a list of dependants of the deceased, their relationship, and age.

Q: What should I do if my marriage was under tribal customary laws?

A: If your marriage was under tribal customary laws, you should request one of your parents and one of your late husband’s parents or close blood relatives to complete parts of the form on your behalf before a commissioner for oaths or a magistrate personally.