Some pensions end at death, but many pensions provide for payments to a surviving spouse or dependent children. Survivors may be entitled to part of the payments the person would have received.

Do pensions continue after death?

If the member had already retired, the pension payments may either end at the member's death (referred to as a single-life pension) or they may continue to pay benefits to a beneficiary in a reduced amount (referred to as a joint-life or survivor pension).

Does a pension go to a beneficiary?

When you initially enroll in your employer's pension plan, you'll be asked to name a beneficiary. The beneficiary is the person who will receive your pension when you die. Much like naming a beneficiary on a life insurance policy, you can name one or more individuals to receive the benefits of your pension.