HOW TO APPLY FOR BENEFITS

When you decide to retire, be sure to contact the Plan Office promptly and apply for benefits. You will be considered as having applied for pension only when your completed application has been received by the Plan Office. Payments cannot begin before the completed application and all other required forms and documents have been received. The Plan has a general rule that it will not pay benefits for any months before you apply. Unless you notify the Plan Office, we will assume that you are still working so that pension benefits are not yet payable to you. If you retire but delay filing, you may lose benefits for the months of delay.

When you request an application from the Plan Office, you can also obtain information about your Pension Credits, benefits, options and any other information which will help you to make your decisions and complete the application. Application and other pension forms are also available on the Plan’s Web site at www.sagph.org.

You must provide a copy of your birth certificate or other proof of your date of birth. If you are married, a copy of your recorded marriage certificate must be provided. If you are applying for a Husband-and-Wife Pension, your spouse’s birth certificate must also be submitted.

If You are Applying for a Disability Pension

For a Disability or Occupational Disability Pension you must also provide proof that you meet the Plan’s definition of Total Disability. This includes a copy of your notice of entitlement to Social Security Disability benefits which you receive from the U.S. Social Security Administration and the Disability Certification Form completed by your doctor. Certification Forms are available from the Plan Office. You will also be asked to provide copies of your medical records, including laboratory test results.

Additionally, you must provide a copy of your birth certificate or other proof of your date of birth. If you are applying for a Husband-and-Wife Pension, a recorded marriage certificate and your spouse’s birth certificate must also be submitted.

Application for Death Benefits

If you die before retirement, your surviving spouse or beneficiary must file an application with the Plan Office for death benefits which may be due (see section on “Death Before Retirement Benefits,” beginning on page 21 in the printed document).

To make it possible for payments to begin with minimum delay, the spouse, beneficiary or a representative should contact the Plan Office as soon as possible after your death.

The Plan Office will provide information to properly authorized representatives on your eligibility and possible benefits due as a result of your death.