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Death Before Retirement

Survivor's benefit 

If you die before retiring, your surviving spouse or other named beneficiary may receive a pension benefit.

What benefit will my spouse or other named beneficiary receive if I die in active service before I retire?

  • If you die before your earliest retirement date, your survivor's benefit is 50% of the benefit you would have received, had you lived and continued in active service to age 65.
  • If you are in active service and are eligible for retirement at the time of death, your survivor receives either 50% of your retirement benefit projected to age 65 or 100% of the retirement benefit for which you were eligible, whichever is greater.

What if I die while I'm not in active service?

  • If you are eligible for retirement at the time of death, your survivor receives 100% of the retirement benefit you would have received.
  • If you were not eligible for retirement, your survivor receives 50% of the retirement benefit you would have received, with no credited service projected to age 65.
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What if I die while receiving a disability benefit?
Your survivor's benefit is 50% of the retirement benefit you would have received, had you worked until age 65. At age 65, you elect a benefit option for your spouse that remains in effect thereafter.
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Can I name a trust or my estate as my beneficiary?
Yes, but this option applies only if you die before you retire. If you name a trust or your estate as your beneficiary, the survivor's benefit is paid to the trust or estate in one lump sum equal to five times your annual benefit. However, if your beneficiary is a special needs trust established for a disabled child, the benefit is paid over the life of the child. On retirement, you must elect a benefit option for your spouse or other beneficiary.
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Please note that this description is provided to you for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as investment, tax or other advice. In the event of a conflict between the information contained in this description and the official Plan Document, the Plan Document will govern. The Church Pension Fund and its affiliates retain the right to amend, terminate or modify the terms of any benefit plans described in this description at any time, without notice and for any reason.