Option Choices

You've worked so hard to get here--understand your options at retirement.

When you retire with the Judges of the Probate Courts (JPC) Retirement Fund, your new option choice form will override any previous forms tied to your account. After retirement, you cannot change your designated survivor. However, if your survivor predeceases you, you may request to "pop-up" to the Option 1 Benefit (subject to board approval).

Option 1: Single Life Annuity with 50% Joint Life with Age Restriction for SPOUSE: 

• The Probate Judge receives the maximum benefits provided by law.
• At the member's death, the designated survivor receives one-half of the amount the member was receiving.
• Benefits become effective when the spouse reaches age 60.

Option 2: 100% Joint Life Annuity – No Age Restriction for SPOUSE or SURVIVOR: 

• The Probate Judge receives a monthly retirement benefit based on the judge’s age and the designated survivor’s age at retirement.
• Upon the member's death, the designated survivor receives the same amount the member was receiving.
• The designated survivor does not need to be 60 years old.
• If a married judge designates a survivor who is not their spouse, the spouse must consent by written agreement with a notarized signature.

Definition: Designated Survivor - a person with whom the member has a familial relationship through blood, marriage or adoption. 

Active and vested members of the Fund may designate a survivor prior to retirement to receive benefits if the member passes away before retirement. Survivor benefits commence when the Judge would have turned 60. See Pre-Retirement Survivor Designation for more information.