Age 65 Distributions - 401(a)(14)

[Guest Kiki]

What should a company do if it sends distribution materials to a terminated vested participant prior to the participant reaching age 65 and the participant does not respond? Does 401(a)(14) require distribution to begin or can the company rely on the provision in the regulation that says "notwithstanding the preceding sentence, a plan may require that a participant file a claim for benefits before payment of benefits will commence" and not begin payment until the participant applies or reaches age 70 1/2 - whichever comes first? (The plan says that benefits must begin at age 65, But also requires participants to file an application in order to receive benefits.) Thanks!