176 GIPF members urged to claim funds
Millions in what is referred to as unclaimed benefits
The Government Institutions Pension Fund of Namibia is calling on members with pending claims to visit its offices.
The Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) is calling on beneficiaries who may have unclaimed funds to approach its offices, its executive spokesperson Edwin TJiramba said. Currently, GIPF holds millions in what is referred to as unclaimed benefits. Every staff member of a participating employer from all government offices, ministries and agencies as well as participating state-owned entities and regional and village councils, are entitled to receive pension benefits at the time when they leave employment and cease to be a member of the GIPF. These benefits are guaranteed as per the rules of the fund and, therefore, are paid out to members or their beneficiaries once a benefit claim is received by GIPF with all relevant supporting documents.
"In terms of the GIPF rules, these benefits become unclaimed where members or beneficiaries fail to claim them for a period of five years after the date on which they become payable. To date, approximately 176 members are still to claim their benefits from the fund," Tjiramba said.
Follow the steps
The process to claim benefits typically begins at the employer's human resources department, where personnel files are maintained. Completed benefit claim forms and supporting documents should be submitted to the GIPF, Tjiramba explained.
"It is crucial to note that benefits can only be paid once a claim is completed, approved, signed by the participating employer, and submitted to the fund with all required documents.
"The fund wishes to emphasise that GIPF does not appoint agencies or consultants to act on its behalf. Members are advised to approach the fund directly for any information related to their benefits. "Members are further cautioned that no fees are payable for services rendered by the GIPF, unlike when using the services of a consultant," Tjiramba said.