Death Before Retirement

If you die before retiring, SCERS provides financial protections for your survivors. The type of benefit that may be paid depends on your status at the time of death—such as whether you were vested, whether your death was job-related, and who you named as a beneficiary.

This section is designed primarily for active members who want to understand how their SCERS benefit would work if they passed away before retiring. It may also be helpful for family members, beneficiaries, or employers navigating this difficult time.

What This Section Covers

• What happens to your SCERS account and benefit if you die before retiring
• The types of death benefits SCERS offers
• Who may receive a benefit and in what order
• How to keep your beneficiary information up to date
• What your family needs to do if you pass away

Important Things to Know

• You do not need to retire to be eligible for SCERS death benefits. Some benefits are available even if you pass away early in your career.
• If you’re vested, your survivor may be eligible to receive a monthly lifetime benefit.
• If your death is determined to be job-related, additional benefits may apply.
• Your beneficiary designation and eligible survivor status both affect who receives what.