State Public Pensions in Montana
Two systems cover most Montana public retirees. MPERA runs the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and several public-safety systems; the separate Teachers' Retirement System (TRS) covers educators. Survivor and death benefits depend on whether the member was active or retired and the retirement option they elected.
OverviewWhen someone dies
Administering agency
Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) and Montana Teachers' Retirement System (TRS)
Phone1-877-275-7372
WebsiteVisit website →
Verified Jul 2026
State Public Pensions in Montana: key facts
- Systems
- MPERA administers PERS plus public-safety systems (Sheriffs', Game Wardens' and Peace Officers', Judges', Municipal Police, Firefighters' Unified, and Highway Patrol). TRS covers public-school and university educators.
- Retiree death
- The continuing benefit depends on the retirement payment option the member elected, such as a joint-and-survivor or period-certain option.
- Pre-retirement death
- A death benefit or survivor allowance may be payable to the designated beneficiary, or to a spouse or dependent children under statute, depending on the system.
- Contacts
- MPERA 1-877-275-7372 (Helena 406-444-3154); TRS 1-866-600-4045 (Helena 406-444-3134).
When someone dies
Steps after a death in Montana
4-step process for Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) and Montana Teachers' Retirement System (TRS).
View details →
Sources
Data sourced from State Public Pensions in Montana primary sources (4 pages reviewed). How we research.
Administering agency
Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) and Montana Teachers' Retirement System (TRS)
Phone1-877-275-7372
WebsiteVisit website →
Verified Jul 2026