Generally, an ERISA plan participant can select just about anyone to be their beneficiary. A member or beneficiary must complete all required forms before receiving a payment from TRS.When you enroll in a 401(k), you need to name beneficiaries to inherit your 401(k) if you die. It's in an ERISA account owner's best interest to have specific beneficiaries designated in retirement accounts. This will facilitate the transfer of assets. 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. Missing Participants Program PBGC has a program called the Missing Participants Program, which connects people to their retirement benefit. If the spouse has NOT waived her rights under this plan, then she is the beneficiary REGARDLESS of what a beneficiary designation says. Your retirement accounts may have to go through a long and costly probate process unless you designate your beneficiaries in the right way.