RGD’s Role in the processing of Pensions and accessing other social benefits.

• In Jamaica the stipulated retirement age is 60 yrs for women and 65 for men. The number one source document required as proof of age is a birth certificate.
• Persons approaching retirement must ensure that their birth certificates have the correct spelling of their names.
  Additionally for older persons the RGD recommends that these individuals ensure that they have a birth certificate with a last name.
• If it is discovered that there is no last name on the birth certificates, the RGD recommends that a late entry of name be conducted.
• The RGD also advises that if an error is discovered on the birth registration records that this be corrected immediately and the updated birth certificate passed to the employer. Steps should also be made to contact the nearest NIS office and have the information corrected.
• One of the other social benefits offered under the National Insurance Scheme is the Widows Pension. This benefits the following
• The spouse of a deceased NIS contributor.
• The spouse of a deceased NIS pensioner.

Persons who were living in a common-law union in which both parties were free to marry. Thus the following may claim:

• A single woman/man who was living with a single man/woman who died.
• A single woman/man who was living with a widower/widow.
• A widow/widower who was living with a widower/widow.
• A widow/widower who was living with a single man/woman.

How does the widow/ widower claim benefit? A widow/ widower who is making a claim for a benefit must fill out the Benefit form, this form is obtained from any National Insurance local office.

What document should accompany the application?

• Marriage certificate , bear in mind the marriage certificate must have the correct name of deceased and claimant Birth certificate;
• Birth certificate of the youngest child (under 18);
• Medical certificate ( if pregnant);
• National Insurance Pension book (if any) belonging to the late spouse.