Survivor Benefit Options

At retirement, you will finalize your choice for designated survivor. After retirement, you may not change your designated survivor except in the case of death or divorce (At that time, you may request to "pop-up" to the Option 1 Benefit--this is subject to board approval).

Option 1: 50% Joint Life with Age Restriction

The Magistrate Judge will receive the maximum benefits provided by law. At the death of the member, the designated survivor will receive one-half of the amount the member was receiving. Such benefits will become effective upon the designated survivor attaining 60 years of age.

Option 2: 100% Joint Life Annuity – No Age Restriction

The Magistrate Judge will receive a monthly retirement benefit based on the judge’s age and the age of the judge’s designated survivor at the time of retirement. Upon the death of the member, the designated survivor will receive the same amount in retirement benefits that was being paid to the member. Under this option, the designated survivor does NOT have to attain the age 60.

Option 3: 50% Joint Life Annuity – No Age Restriction

The Magistrate Judge will receive a monthly retirement benefit based on the judge’s age and the age of the judge’s designated survivor at the time of retirement. Upon the death of the member, the designated survivor will receive one-half of the amount the member was receiving. Under this option, the designated survivor does NOT have to attain the age 60.