Recently we have run into a participant who does not believe she is eligible for benefits from the pension fund. After our review, we believe she is vested. However, we are in receipt of a letter from the participant stating she will not fill out any paperwork and does not believe she is eligible for a pension. Under the terms of the plan, participants are required to make an application for benefits. Additionally, the participant has requested that the pension fund office cease sending her letters and calling her regarding her application (or lack thereof).
My initial thoughts are that if the participant does not want to make an application, there is no requirement that the NEED to apply.