Our ERISA attorneys at the Peace Law Firm describe some issues involving ERISA plans and beneficiaries. Contact us for help today.The Summary Plan Description (SPD) should include your plan's claims procedures. Usually, you fill out the required paperwork and submit it to the plan. If the spouse has NOT waived her rights under this plan, then she is the beneficiary REGARDLESS of what a beneficiary designation says. The 2012 ERISA Advisory Council studied current challenges and best practices concerning beneficiary designations in retirement and life insurance plans. A beneficiary becomes entitled to plan benefits because of the participant's death or a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO). Look up nonprofits and identify prospects with Candid's GuideStar. Enter organization name or keyword Search ERISA also established the.