Utah § 49-17-502 - Benefits payable upon death of retired member.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 49-17-502 — Benefits payable upon death of retired member., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 49-17-502. Benefits payable upon death of retired member.

Effective 5/10/2016
49-17-502.  Benefits payable upon death of retired member.
(1)
(a) The death benefit payable to a retiree's surviving spouse is an allowance equal to 65% of the allowance which was being paid to the retiree at the time of death.
(b) The effective date of the accrual of this allowance is the first day of the month following the month in which the retiree died.
(2)
(a) Notwithstanding the amount of the allowance under Subsection (1), at the time of retirement, a retiree may elect to increase the spousal death benefit up to 75% of an allowance computed in accordance with Section 49-17-402.
(b) If an election is made under Subsection (2)(a), the member's allowance shall be reduced to reflect the actuarial equivalent necessary to pay for the increased spousal death benefit above 65%.
(3)
(a) A surviving spouse who qualifies for a monthly benefit under this section shall apply in writing to the office.
(b) The allowance shall begin on the first day of the month following the month in which the:
(i) member or participant died, if the application is received by the office within 90 days of the date of death of the member or participant; or
(ii) application is received by the office, if the application is received by the office more than 90 days after the date of death of the member or participant.


Amended by Chapter 84, 2016 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 49-17-502

What does Utah Code § 49-17-502 cover?

Section 49-17-502 ("Benefits payable upon death of retired member.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Utah § 49-17-502?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 49-17-502" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 49-17-502 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.