Pre-Retirement Survivor Designation

It is imperative that you understand your options should you pass away before retirement.

The JPC Retirement Fund allows members to designate a recipient for survivor benefits if they pass away before retirement. Survivor benefits commence when the Judge would have turned 60. This designation is valid only before retirement and may be changed up to retirement. If a member does not choose an option or designate a survivor, the fund will assume Option 1 (available only to the member's spouse). If no spouse is available, the member's estate is entitled to a refund of dues.

Option 1: 50% Joint Life for Spouse at age 60

  • If a member passes away before retirement without designating the 100% Joint Life benefit, the Georgia code section provides the spouse with 50% of the maximum benefit by law.
  • Benefits become effective when the spouse reaches age 60.

Option 2: 100% Joint Life for Spouse -or- Survivor – No Age Restriction for Recipient

  • Members can designate a spouse or survivor to receive a benefit until the designated individual's passing.
  • The designated survivor receives a monthly benefit equal to the actuarially reduced 100% Joint Life amount the judge would have received at retirement.
  • The designated recipient 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.

To designate or update your survivor information, please complete and submit the Download this pdf file. Pre-Retirement Option Choice Form . This designation is valid only before retirement and may be changed up to retirement.