Documentation of ERISA Authorized Representative Procedures

Under ERISA, a participant in an ERISA-covered plan has the right to designate an authorized representative to act on his or her behalf in connection with claims and appeals. The plan may establish reasonable procedures for determining whether an individual has been authorized to act on behalf of a claimant. Earlier this year, the DOL issued an information letter stating, in part, that: ?Ç£The plan must include any procedures for designating authorized representatives in the plan?ÇÖs claims procedures and in the plan?ÇÖs summary plan description (?Ç£SPD?Ç¥) or a separate document that accompanies the SPD.?Ç¥ Employers that sponsor ERISA plans should (i) verify that the claims procedures in each plan and SPD contain reasonable procedures for designating authorized representatives and (ii) amend the plan and SPD as needed. View the DOL information letter.