Utah § 49-18-501 - Death benefit for members before retirement -- Computation.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 49-18-501 — Death benefit for members before retirement -- Computation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 49-18-501. Death benefit for members before retirement -- Computation.

Effective 5/10/2016
49-18-501.  Death benefit for members before retirement -- Computation.
(1) Upon the receipt of acceptable proof of death of a member before the member's retirement date, the member's surviving spouse shall have the choice of the following death benefits:
(a) a refund of the member's member contributions, if any, plus 65% of the member's most recent 12 months' compensation prior to death; or
(b) an allowance equal to 65% of the allowance computed in accordance with Section 49-18-402, but disregarding early retirement reductions.
(2) If there is no surviving spouse, member contributions shall be refunded to a beneficiary, in accordance with Sections 49-11-609 and 49-11-610.
(3)
(a) A surviving spouse who requests a benefit under this section shall apply in writing to the office.
(b) The allowance shall begin on the first day of the month:
(i) following the month in which the member died, if the application is received by the office within 90 days of the member's death; or
(ii) following the month in which the application is received by the office, if the application is received by the office more than 90 days after the member's death.


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 § 49-18-501

What does Utah Code § 49-18-501 cover?

Section 49-18-501 ("Death benefit for members before retirement -- Computation.") 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 § 49-18-501?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 49-18-501" (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 § 49-18-501 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.