Funeral expenses for grandparent

[Guest Georgia1]

From what I have read, hardships for funeral expenses are available for immediate family members. Is a grandparent considered an immediate family member in this case?

[ETA Consulting LLC]

I think it would need to be a parent, spouse, child, or dependant. Was the grandparent a dependant? I would still verify this in the plan's written terms.

Good Luck!

[GMK]

This SPD lists funeral expenses for a grandparent under hardships (page 10, which is page 12 of the pdf):

https://www.employeebenefitswebsite.com/amg.../retire-spd.pdf

but I don't know if grandparents are "family members" for the hardship safe harbor.

ETK makes a good point. If they are dependents, they are safe harbor. Safe harbor isn't required, but it is, well, safer. And check the plan document.

[Guest Georgia1]

This SPD lists funeral expenses for a grandparent under hardships (page 10, which is page 12 of the pdf):

https://www.employeebenefitswebsite.com/amg.../retire-spd.pdf

but I don't know if grandparents are "family members" for the hardship safe harbor.

ETK makes a good point. If they are dependents, they are safe harbor. Safe harbor isn't required, but it is, well, safer. And check the plan document.

That was what we were reading...that the grandparent must be a dependent. Just wanted to see if you agreed with our conclusion.

[K2retire]

With so many grandparents becoming the primary care givers for their grandchildren, not considering them "immediate family" when they need assistance is an unfortunate turn of events!

[GMK]

K2 - I agree with you for family members in the in loco parentis situation, which probably adds in aunts, uncles, etc.

In the (desperate) case where there really are no funds except one generous grandchild's hardship withdrawal, I'd say, "Why not?" (assuming the plan document allows it, of course).

I don't know how you filter out those who would game the system (and they will show up), but in the legitimate cases it seems quite appropriate.