Tag: Muvhango Lukhaimane
Fund took the “back door” rather than investigate properly
Rather than conducting a proper investigation to trace who should be allocated a death benefit, a retirement fund decided to go “through the back door” and allocate the benefit to the deceased’s estate. This follows the decision of the South African Retirement Annuity Fund to pay a death benefit into the deceased’s estate following the death of its member.
New legislation spells name change for pension funds tribunal
The financial services dispute resolution landscape is being radically reshaped to ensure a consistent framework across the financial services sector whilst providing for quick and cost-efficient review of an aggrieved party’s grievance. Along with the proposed amendments is a name change for our office, which will be renamed the 'Retirement Funds Ombud'
Wheels of pensions tribunal turning fast as COVID-19 protocols lifted
With the lifting of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, complaints to us came thick and fast – and cases were closed without undue delay. In the 2021-2022 financial year under review, we received 8,858 new complaints, an increase of 26% compared to the previous year when the COVID-19 level 4 and 5 lockdowns were implemented.
PFA dismisses claims for death benefits to be paid
In a case that illustrates the devastation of employers’ failure to keep up to date with contributions, two complainants - a daughter and a son - have failed in their respective bids to get risk benefits to be paid when their parents passed away.
Caution against rigid application of the law
It is sometimes said that the 'law is an ass' when one thinks the law is too rigid, unnecessary or ridiculous. The complainant sought payment of a surplus benefit following the death of her husband who was a member of the Auto Workers Provident Fund.
