The Division of Retirement and Benefits has been made aware of a scam targeting those who have recently reported a death.

A member was contacted by phone by a person posing as a Division supervisor. They told the member they are entitled to their deceased spouse’s pension and $50,000 life insurance only if they paid some missed payments.

The Division of Retirement and Benefits did not send these messages. The Division does not call the beneficiaries by phone to inform them of a benefit. When a member’s death is reported, the Division's initial communications to the beneficiaries are always done by letter. If you receive a call like this, we recommend you hang up and call the Division at (907) 465-4460 or (800) 821-2251 to confirm the person is a Division employee.

If you are contacted by someone claiming to be from the Division, but you suspect they are not, then:

• Record the person’s name and any associated contact information, such as an email address, screen name, call back number, or caller ID.
• Call the Division at (907) 465-4460 or (800) 821-2251 to confirm the person is a Division employee.
• If the person is not a Division employee, we recommend you do not engage with them. If you are targeted in a scam seeking financial or other sensitive information, you may consider contacting your local police department to report the scam.