Former Howard University Employees May Be Receiving Underpaid Pensions

Data Breach Class Action Mass Tort Investigation

Photo Credit: Unsplash | Published: February 21, 2024

Claim Form Deadline: Ongoing

Estimated Payout: Varies

Proof required: Yes

Are You A Former Howard University Employee Receiving Pension Benefits?

Did you start receiving a pension from Howard University before 2017? Were you married when your benefits started? If so, you may be receiving pension benefits that are too low and you may have a claim.

Survivor Benefits for Pensioners' Spouses May Be Too Low

Generally, retirees who get a pension are entitled to a monthly payment for the rest of their life, which is called an annuity. Retirees can choose to receive their pension benefits as an annuity just for them or they can choose an annuity with a “survivor benefit” — which continues the monthly payments to a spouse after the retiree dies. For married retirees, the default option is a “survivor benefit.” To convert a normal annuity to a survivor benefit annuity, plans use complicated formulas based on life expectancies and interest rates.

Attorneys believe Howard University may be using a faulty formula to calculate survivor benefit annuities leaving retirees (and their spouses) with less money than they should receive.

How Big is Howard University?

Howard University is a private, historically Black research university located in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1867, it is known for its strong academic programs and contributions to African American education and culture. Each year, the university graduates approximately 2,000 to 2,500 students across various disciplines. With a dedicated workforce, Howard employs around 4,000 to 5,000 faculty and staff members who support its mission of excellence in education, research, and community service.

How Do I Qualify for a Pension Benefits Claim?

If you started collecting pension benefits from Howard University before 2017 AND were married when your benefits began, use the links below to contact an attorney to see if you qualify to recover your pension benefits from Howard University.