The NYCERS F266 form is an essential document for Tier 3 and Tier 4 vested members of the New York City Employees' Retirement System who wish to initiate payment of their Vested Retirement Benefit. This application enables members to formalize their intention to receive benefits after leaving City service, affirming their choice of a beneficiary for the distribution of death benefits. It encompasses specific retirement options, beneficiary nominations, and tax withholding preferences, requiring careful consideration and accurate completion by the applicant.
The NYCERS F266 form plays a pivotal role in the lives of Tier 3 and Tier 4 vested members who are planning to receive their Vested Retirement Benefit. Essentially, this form comes into play once an individual has parted ways with City service and had previously submitted a "notice of intention" to vest their retirement benefits using form #254. It's integral for applicants to understand the various facets of this form, including the nomination of a beneficiary or the option to have the death benefit payable to their estate, ensuring a choice that aligns with their personal wishes. Applicants must select from a variety of retirement plans tailored to specific roles within the city's services, and further safeguard their retirement benefits through beneficiary nominations, offering a choice between a Ten-Year Certain Option or a 100% Joint-and-Survivor Option, each with distinct implications. Moreover, the form delves into beneficiary selection, urging members to make an informed choice between nominating an individual or opting for estate nomination, and outlines the requirements for federal tax withholding on their pension. The form mandates a notarized signature, underlining the critical nature of the information provided and the choices made by the member. It serves as a comprehensive tool to ensure members' interests and beneficiaries are duly recorded and respected, making it an essential step for those eligible to secure their financial future post-retirement.
NYCERS USE ONLY
F266
*266*
Application for Payment
Tier 3 and Tier 4 Vested Retirement Benefit
This application is for Tier 3 and Tier 4 vested members who wish to receive payment of their Vested Retirement Benefit. When you left City service you filled out a “notice of intention”, form #254, to vest your retirement benefit. It is important that you read the conditions below. Please be sure that you nominate a beneficiary or your estate to receive a death benefit payable should you die while in City service. You may only nominate one or the other. Should you have any questions regarding this application, please contact our Call Center at (347) 643-3000.
No advance (partial) pension payment will be sent to you until NYCERS has a copy of your birth certificate on file.
Member Number
Last 4 Digits of SSN
Home Phone Number
( )
Work Phone Number
()
First Name
M.I.
Last Name
Address
Apt. Number
City
State
Zip Code
I am a Tier 3 member enrolled in the (Choose one):
Correction Officer/Captain 25-Year Retirement Program
Correction Officer/Captain 20-Year Retirement Program
Correction Force 20-Year Retirement Program (CF-20)
I am a Tier 4 member enrolled in the (Choose one):
Basic 62/5 Tier 4 Plan
Age 57 and 5-Year Retirement Program
Sanitation 20-Year Retirement Program
Transit 25-Year and Age-55 Retirement Program
MTA Bridges and Tunnels (formerly TBTA) 20-Year and Age-50 Retirement Program
25-Year Retirement Program for Dispatcher Members
EMT 25-Year Retirement Program
Special Officer 25-Year Retirement Program
Deputy Sheriff 25-Year Retirement Program
Automotive Service Workers 25-Year and Age 50 Retirement Program
Police Communications Titles (911 Operators) 25-Year Retirement Program
Sign this form and have it notarized, Page 4
R06/08/11
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Option Selection:
Once your eligibility is verified and this form is processed, you will receive a letter from NYCERS providing the full complement of retirement options available. In the interim, to afford you maximum protection from the date of your vested retirement until the date of your first full payment, you must select a temporary retirement option, as well as a beneficiary. Once vested, if you should die before selecting either of the options, or if you fail to name a beneficiary, NO DEATH BENEFIT WILL BE PAYABLE FROM
NYCERS.
The two temporary options are: The Ten Year Certain Option and the 100% Joint-and-Survivor Option. Please read the descriptions of both before choosing your retirement option. Please choose only one of the following.
Ten-Year Certain
If you die within ten years from the date of your retirement, the reduced monthly retirement benefit will continue to be paid to your surviving primary beneficiary for the unexpired balance of the ten-year period. If the designated primary beneficiary predeceases you, the balance of the payment continues to your contingent beneficiary. If none exists, it is paid in a lump-sum to your estate. Should a primary beneficiary die after receiving payments, the balance will be paid in a lump-sum to your contingent beneficiary. If none exists, the lump-sum balance is paid to the estate of the primary beneficiary. You may nominate both a primary and a contingent beneficiary under this option.
100% Joint-and-Survivor
This option assures you and your designated beneficiary a reduced benefit for lifetime. Should you die, your designated beneficiary will receive the same lifetime benefit. Because this option guarantees two specific people an income for life, the life expectancies of the retiree as well as the beneficiary are taken into consideration. Therefore, once you designate a beneficiary and the option is in force, you cannot change your beneficiary designation, even if he/she precedes you in death. You may only nominate a primary beneficiary under this option.
Beneficiary Selection
This is split into two sections: Section A - Designation of Beneficiary and Section B - Nomination of Your Estate. It is important that you only fill out one section, for if you fill out both, your selection will be voided.
Section A - Designation of Beneficiary
A designated beneficiary is the person who is on file at NYCERS to receive a survivor benefit payable upon the death of a member. If you decide to nominate your estate rather than a person DO NOT FILL OUT THIS SECTION, see Section B.
The beneficiary whom I wish to nominate to receive my death benefit is:
Primary Beneficiary
Full Social Security Number
M.I. Last Name
Date of Birth [MM/DD/YYYY]
Relationship
/ /
If this beneficiary is a minor, check here and complete the guardian information on Form 137
Page 2 of 4
If I have chosen the Ten Year Certain and my designated primary beneficiary dies before the ten-year period expires, the contingent beneficiary whom I nominate to receive benefits is:
Contingent Beneficiary
Stop
and
Read
Section B - Designation of Estate: Please initial the box below if you wish to nominate your estate. You may not fill in the above section if you fill out part B.
I am nominating my Estate as my beneficiary for my regular death benefit. I understand that in order for this selection to be valid I may not write in any other beneficiary’s name on this form, and I have, in fact, left all other designation of beneficiary sections on this form blank.
Should your death be the result of an on-the-job accident, an accidental death benefit is payable upon application in this priority: spouse (who has not remarried), child under the age 25, dependent parent, or any other qualified dependent under the age of 21. If no such beneficiary exists, then your benefit is payable to the names you list on this form.
Federal Tax Withholding
Federal tax law provides that all payers are required to withhold Federal income tax on periodic payments (similar to wages), unless you elect to be excluded from such withholding. This election will remain in effect until revoked by you. If you do not complete this election, Federal income tax will be withheld at the rate of a married individual claiming three exemptions.
Please indicate your withholding selection by marking the appropriate choice below:
1.
Do not withhold Federal income tax from my pension. (Do not complete 2 or 3 if you select this option)
2.
Withhold based on
(Check one only)
Single
number of exemptions using the following status (You may also enter a dollar amount in choice 3):
Married
Married, but withhold at higher "Single" rate
3.
In addition to the amount withheld based on my exemptions and filing status in choice 2,
I would like to withhold $
Per Month (Must specify dollar amount only)
Note: You cannot enter an amount here without entering a number of exemptions in choice 2 (even if that number is zero).
Page 3 of 4
I, the undersigned, hereby make application for payment of a Vested Retirement Benefit under the provisions of my retirement plan.
Signature of Member
Date
This form must be acknowledged before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Deeds
State of
County of
On this
day of
2 0
, personally appeared
before me the above named,
, to me known, and known to
me to be the individual described in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and he or she acknowledged to me that he or she
executed the same, and that the statements contained therein are true.
If you have an official seal, affix it
Signature of Notary Public or
Commissioner of Deeds
Official Title
Expiration Date of Commission
Sign this form and have it notarized, THIS PAGE
Page 4 of 4
Filling out the NYCERS F266 form is a critical step for Tier 3 and Tier 4 vested members who are looking to receive payment of their Vested Retirement Benefit. This process involves careful consideration of your retirement options and beneficiary designations to ensure that you make the best decisions for your future security and that of your loved ones. Here's a step-by-step guide to assist you in completing the form accurately:
Once completed and notarized, review your form for accuracy and completeness to avoid any delays in processing. Submitting your F266 form is a significant step towards securing your retirement benefits. Remember, it is essential to keep your designated beneficiaries updated to reflect any changes in your personal circumstances over time.
What is the NYCERS F266 form used for?
The NYCERS F266 form is an application designed for Tier 3 and Tier 4 vested members who are looking to receive payment of their Vested Retirement Benefit. This form becomes relevant after you have ceased City service and have previously filled out a “notice of intention” via form #254 to vest your retirement benefit. It's a critical step in claiming your retirement benefits, ensuring your hard-earned pension is accessible to you after your service.
Who is eligible to fill out the F266 form?
Eligibility for filling out the F266 form is specifically for vested members who are part of Tier 3 and Tier 4. These members must have previously declared their intention to vest their retirement benefits upon leaving City service. Various retirement plans under these tiers include Correction Officers/Captains, Sanitation, EMT, Deputy Sheriff, and several others. Understanding your eligibility and the specifics of your plan is essential before proceeding with this application.
Why is nominating a beneficiary important on the F266 form?
Nominating a beneficiary is a crucial part of completing the F266 form because it determines who will receive the death benefit payable upon your passing. This nomination provides security and financial support to your chosen beneficiary or your estate. Failing to nominate a beneficiary, or not selecting an option properly, means that no death benefits will be payable by NYCERS. You have the option to nominate either a primary beneficiary, a contingent beneficiary, or your estate, though only one selection is valid.
What are the options for direct payment from NYCERS?
There are two main temporary retirement options provided in the F266 form: the Ten-Year Certain Option and the 100% Joint-and-Survivor Option. Each option offers different benefits and conditions tailored to various needs. The Ten-Year Certain Option provides benefits to a beneficiary for the remainder of the ten-year period should the member pass away within that time. The 100% Joint-and-Survivor Option guarantees a lifetime benefit for both the retiree and their named beneficiary. These options are designed to offer security and protection for your beneficiaries.
What happens if a designated beneficiary predeceases the member?
If a designated primary beneficiary predeceases the member under the Ten-Year Certain Option, the unexpired payments will continue to a contingent beneficiary if one has been nominated. Should there be no contingent beneficiary, the remaining balance is paid to the estate of the member or the primary beneficiary. This clause ensures that your benefits will still support your selected individuals or estate, maintaining financial security for your loved ones or estate after your demise.
How does nominating an estate as a beneficiary work?
Nominating your estate as a beneficiary on the F266 form involves opting for your regular death benefit to be payable to your estate rather than an individual. This option requires that you don't fill out any other section of the form nominating an individual. It's a choice that might be preferred if you wish your estate to manage the distribution of your benefits, especially in complex family or financial situations. Remember, you must leave all other beneficiary designation sections blank for this choice to be valid.
What are the requirements for the Federal Tax Withholding section on the form?
The Federal Tax Withholding section allows you to specify how you'd like taxes to be handled regarding your pension payments. You can choose to either have federal income tax withheld at a rate based on marital status and exemptions or opt not to withhold tax. It's important to carefully consider your selection, as it affects your monthly pension payout and overall tax planning. If you're unsure about what to choose, consulting with a tax professional might be beneficial.
What are the next steps after filling out and signing the form?
After completing and signing the F266 form, your signature must be acknowledged before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Deeds. The final step involves submitting the notarized form to NYCERS for processing. Once processed, NYCERS will verify your eligibility and inform you about the full complement of retirement options available to you. This verification process is critical to ensuring your retirement benefits are correctly set up and that you receive all the benefits you're entitled to.
Filling out the NYCERS F266 form, which is crucial for Tier 3 and Tier 4 vested members wishing to receive their Vested Retirement Benefit, often involves careful navigation through a series of detailed questions and declarations. However, even the most attentive individuals can make mistakes. These errors can delay processing, impact benefit calculations, or even result in the denial of certain benefits. Understanding these common mistakes can help ensure that your application is completed accurately and efficiently.
One frequent error occurs when applicants fail to provide a copy of their birth certificate along with the application. The NYCERS requires this document to verify your age but forgetting to include it can hold up the entire process. Another common mistake involves beneficiary designation. The form stipulates that only one beneficiary or the estate can be nominated; however, some applicants incorrectly fill out both sections, rendering their nomination void. This error can have significant implications, especially regarding the distribution of death benefits.
Regarding the selection of a retirement option, some individuals do not fully read or understand the descriptions of the Ten Year Certain Option and the 100% Joint-and-Survivor Option before making a choice. This lack of understanding can lead to selecting an option that may not be in their best interests or the interests of their beneficiary. Additionally, a critical mistake is not signing the form and failing to have it notarized, both of which are required steps for the application to be processed.
In terms of tax withholdings, applicants often overlook or misunderstand the Federal Tax Withholding section. This oversight can result in unexpected tax liabilities or refunds. The application also requires the member's signature and the date, yet, remarkably, these fields are occasionally left blank, leading to unnecessary delays in processing the application.
When nominating a contingent beneficiary, especially in situations where the primary beneficiary is a minor, applicants must fill out guardian information on Form 137. Neglecting this step can lead to complications in benefit distribution should the primary beneficiary predecease the pensioner within the specified timeframe.
In conclusion, filling out the NYCERS F266 form requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the instructions. Avoiding these common mistakes helps ensure that the application process is smooth and that all intended benefits are secured without delay.
When preparing for retirement, particularly in the context of NYCERS (New York City Employees' Retirement System), dealing with the necessary paperwork is a critical step. Among these documents, the F266 Application for Payment Tier 3 and Tier 4 Vested Retirement Benefit form is paramount for Tier 3 and Tier 4 members who are looking to receive their vested retirement benefits. However, the F266 form is only a part of the documentation required during this process. Several other forms and documents play significant roles in ensuring a smooth transition into retirement for city employees.
In the journey toward retirement, these documents facilitate the verification of eligibility, ensure accurate benefit distribution, and protect the interests of both the members and their designated beneficiaries. Employing diligence in preparing and submitting these documents alongside the F266 form will contribute greatly toward achieving a seamless transition to retired life. It's also recommended to keep in touch with NYCERS or a retirement advisor to ensure all required documentation is complete and up to date.
The NYCERS F266 form shares similarities with the TDA Application form also used by NYCERS. Both documents are vital for retirement planning, with the TDA Application enabling members to manage their Tax-Deferred Annuity Program selections. Like the F266 form, the TDA Application requests detailed member information and includes sections for beneficiary designations, ensuring members have a say in who benefits from their accounts after their passing.
Another similar document is the Beneficiary Designation Form commonly used in retirement and investment accounts. This form, like section A of the F266, allows account holders to specify individuals or entities (such as a trust or estate) that will receive benefits upon the account holder's death. It's integral in estate planning, ensuring that benefits are distributed according to the account holder's wishes without going through probate.
The Pension Option Election Form is another document resembling the F266 form. This form is used by retirees to choose how they wish to receive their pension payments. Options might include single-life payouts or joint-survivor options akin to the 100% Joint-and-Survivor Option described in the F266, where benefits continue for a named beneficiary after the retiree's death.
Similar to the temporary retirement options section in the F266, a Life Insurance Application often requires the applicant to choose a beneficiary for the life insurance proceeds. Both documents necessitate careful consideration of who will best benefit from the policy or plan's offerings, emphasizing the signer's responsibility in designating these benefits thoughtfully.
The Deferred Compensation Plan Enrollment Form shares similarities with the F266 form in that both involve future financial planning and beneficiary designations. Participants use the Deferred Compensation Plan Enrollment Form to set aside a portion of their income for retirement, much like vesting a retirement benefit with NYCERS, highlighting the importance of preparing for financial needs later in life.
The Last Will and Testament, while more comprehensive, similarly designates beneficiaries for various assets, much like the beneficiary selection in the F266 form. It ensures that an individual's estate is distributed according to their wishes, potentially including specific instructions for retirement benefits and other financial assets.
A Power of Attorney (POA) document, though serving a different primary purpose, also deals with financial and personal affairs management. It designates another person to make decisions on the principal's behalf, which can include managing retirement plans and engaging with forms like the F266, underscoring the trust placed in the designated agent.
Form W-4P, Withholding Certificate for Pension or Annuity Payments, is akin to the Federal Tax Withholding section of the F266 form. Both documents allow the retiree to manage tax withholdings on their distributions to avoid unexpected tax liabilities, highlighting the importance of tax planning in retirement.
Finally, the Notary Acknowledgement Page found in many legal documents, including the last page of the F266 form, is essential for verifying the signer's identity and ensuring the document's execution is willingly and knowingly made. This commonality underscores the importance of official oversight in executing legally binding agreements.
When preparing to fill out the NYCERS F266 form, an Application for Payment Tier 3 and Tier 4 Vested Retirement Benefit, it is imperative to ensure accuracy and completeness to avoid delays or rejection of your application. Below are seven dos and don'ts to guide you through this process effectively.
Completing the NYCERS F266 form accurately and comprehensively is critical to ensure the timely and correct processing of your vested retirement benefit. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in unnecessary delays or the rejection of your application. Your attention to detail and adherence to the instructions will help streamline this process.
When navigating retirement planning, understanding the nuances of documentation can be confusing. The NYCERS F266 form, crucial for Tier 3 and Tier 4 vested members applying for their vested retirement benefits, often falls prey to misunderstandings. Here are five common misconceptions cleared up to provide clarity:
Understanding these common misconceptions can streamline the application process, ensuring members navigate their retirement planning with confidence and the correct information. For further questions, contacting NYCERS directly can provide personalized guidance and support.
The process of applying for a Vested Retirement Benefit with the New York City Employees' Retirement System (NYCERS) involves the submission of the F266 form by Tier 3 and Tier 4 members. Here are several key takeaways for members preparing to utilize this form:
Additionally, the application touchpoints on several more procedural details such as needing a copy of the applicant's birth certificate on file before any payments can be issued, and offers guidance on Federal tax withholding options. These aspects underscore the importance of thorough preparation and understanding of the form's requirements and the broader application process for Vested Retirement Benefits through NYCERS.
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