A contribution during a time of loss to support your family. The funeral benefit is not payable once the beneficiary reaches the age of 65 and their dependent children reach the age of 19.
Eligibility
Payable in the event of the death of a member, spouse or dependent child.
Continuity
The benefit is payable to the member or in the event of the death of the member, the nominated beneficiary.
The benefit is for the following amounts:
- Death of a member $3,000.00
- Death of a member’s spouse $3,000.00
- Death of a dependent child $1,000.00
Claiming
When the NZFFWS Representative is made aware of a member becoming eligible, they shall immediately seek confirmation to that effect. After receiving confirmation, they shall contact the Office Manager or Membership Coordinator and relay the facts relating to the claim.
The NZFFWS Representative will prepare an application for benefit BA1 form on behalf of the member. The Office Manager/Membership Coordinator will upon receiving the information from the NZFFWS Representative arrange for payment at the appropriate rate to be made as soon as practicable.
If the member has not nominated a beneficiary or there is a dispute/confusion on the payee, the benefit will be forwarded to their estate.
Special Early Draw Provision
On the production of satisfactory evidence (in the opinion of the Welfare Board) 50% of the active members funeral assistance benefit may be advanced to a claimant if such person is suffering a terminal illness.
Interpretation
Death of an unborn child:
- In the event of the passing of an unborn child, the Welfare Society may consider meeting part of the service/burial/cremation costs as long as sufficient proof can be provided to the NZFFWS Representative that costs have been or will be incurred.
- Any payments so made shall not exceed $500 per event.
- Any such payment shall be classified as a funeral expenses benefit.