MMC Benefits Handbook
Survivor Assistance
What is Survivor Assistance?
This service is provided by MetLife Legal Plans, a MetLife company. The Executor or Administrator of the estate of the employee, or your Spouse/Domestic Partner can receive assistance from a participating plan attorney, at no cost, for matters related to probating the deceased's estate and distributing the assets to the heirs.
The service is included in your coverage, and your Spouse/Domestic Partner does not have to be insured under the plan. Covered services include:
  • telephone and office consultations to discuss matters related to probating the deceased's estate;
  • preparation of documents and representation at court proceedings needed to transfer probate assets from the deceased's estate to the heirs;
  • completion of correspondence necessary to transfer non-probate assets, such as proceeds from insurance policies, joint bank accounts, stock accounts or a house; and
  • associated tax filings.
Some services are not covered and your surviving spouse and/or child will need to contact MetLife Legal Plans at +1 800 821 6400 for more information. A Client Service Representative will help you locate a participating plan attorney in your area and answer any questions you may have about this benefit.
Note: You may also wish to refer to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) section of the Benefits Handbook under Employee Programs & Policies, Additional Benefits. Or you may contact an EAP representative directly at +1 800 382 3432, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What does Survivor Assistance cost?
This program is automatically available at no cost to plan participants or beneficiaries.
How do I initiate Survivor Assistance?
If you are a plan participant or beneficiary who has experienced the death of a loved one, please notify contact Mercer Voluntary Benefits (provided by Mercer Health & Benefits Administration) at +1 800 225 2265, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Eastern time and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Eastern time and you will be transferred to a MetLife GVUL Customer Service Representative for assistance. You will receive information about the Survivor Assistance Program from MetLife in approximately 7 to 10 business days.