If your application for pension or death benefits is turned down, or any part of it is denied, the Trustees must notify you within 90 days (45 days in the case of a Disability Pension application). The notice must explain the reasons for the denial and outline what you can do to request reconsideration by the Board and to justify the claim. There may be special circumstances which will make additional time necessary, in which case the Board may take up to an additional 90 days (30 days in the case of a Disability Pension application). However, the Board must notify you of the delay and the reasons for it.

If you disagree with the decision, a request for review (appeal) must be made within 60 days (180 days in the case of a Disability Pension application). The request must be in writing and state the reasons for disputing the decision. Send your request to the Plan Office along with copies of whatever substantiating evidence you may have.

The Board of Trustees has delegated to the Benefits Committee, the authority to investigate and decide appeals. The Benefits Committee may hold a hearing if the appeal involves presentation of evidence or argument that the Board feels cannot be presented satisfactorily by correspondence. Appeals will usually be decided within 60 days, but it may take up to 120 days if circumstances, such as the scheduling of a meeting of the Benefits Committee, make additional time necessary. You will be notified of the appeal decision in writing.

The complete Claim and Appeals rules can be found on pages 82 and 83 of the Plan SPD.