AR SB115

Survivor annuity applications must be filed by the end of the sixth full calendar month following the member's death to receive benefits beginning the month after death; otherwise benefits begin the month the application is filed.

Surviving spouses must have been married to the active member for at least two (2) years immediately preceding the member's death to receive a 100% survivor annuity, unless an alternative beneficiary waives their residue rights.

Dependent children may temporarily suspend their annuity while on active military duty or training and can reinstate benefits if they immediately enroll as full-time students upon returning and are between 18-22 years of age.

Children of retired members who return to work and subsequently die are eligible for dependent child annuities under the same rules applicable to children of active members.

The act becomes effective July 1, 2023, declared an emergency to align implementation with the system's fiscal year and allow proper administration of the procedures.