I haven't worked as a Teamster for a while, why hasn't my benefit grown since the last time I checked on it?
Your benefit is computed to your normal retirement age. The value of your lifetime monthly benefit will grow over time if you defer your retirement beyond your normal retirement age and are not working in Suspendible Employment.
If I'm married, can I designate a beneficiary other than my spouse?
No, you can not designate someone other than your spouse prior to retirement. You may do so at the time of retirement but only if your spouse consents in writing.
If I die before retiring, what will happen to my retirement?
If you are vested, married and die before retirement, your surviving spouse will receive a pre-retirement death benefit calculated as if you had retired the day before your death and elected the 66-2/3% Joint Annuity Option. Two-thirds of your benefit under that form of payment continues to your surviving spouse for his/her lifetime provided you have been married at least 12-months preceding your date of death. Your spouse can also elect to receive the value of the lifetime monthly payments over a period of 5 years (60 payments), after which the benefit stops.
If you are vested, not married and die before retirement, your surviving beneficiaries are eligible to receive a pre-retirement death benefit equal to 60 monthly benefit payments valued as a Five Year Certain Life Annuity.