How much of my retirement annuity will my spouse receive if I die?

Your spouse will receive a $1,000 one-time payment and a monthly benefit equal to one-half of your retirement annuity at the time of death. This benefit would be paid to your spouse for life provided he or she is at least age 50, and you have been married for at least one year.

Please refer to the Death Benefits section (PDF) of the Member Guide for more information.

What happens if I elect to have the 2.2 upgrade charge deducted from my pension* in 24 equal installments and I die before all of the payments have been made? Will the monthly benefit option for my eligible dependent be based on the 2.2 formula?

Any remaining deductions from your pension will be forgiven. The monthly survivor benefit will be based on the monthly benefit you were receiving at the time of your death.

* Payment can be made either through a lump sum, rollover, or pre-tax reduction from your monthly annuity check.

What happens if my death occurs prior to retirement and before paying the full upgrade cost?

All payments for the upgrade will be paid to the beneficiary nominated for the refund of accumulated contributions with interest. Survivor benefits will be paid on the non-enhanced benefit.

What should my family do when I die?

Your family should contact TRS with your name and Social Security number as well as a contact person's name, address, and phone number. TRS will need a certified copy of your death certificate. If your spouse elects to receive a monthly survivor benefit, TRS will need copies of your spouse's birth certificate and your marriage license (or tax return if your marriage license is not available).

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