State Public Pensions in New Hampshire: when someone dies
A 4-step process for New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS) after a death in New Hampshire.
Administering agency
New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS)
Authority
RSA 100-A (RSA 100-A:12; RSA 100-A:13)
Steps to take
- Confirm the deceased was a member of the New Hampshire Retirement System.
- Report the death to NHRS so any pension payments stop — call 603-410-3500 and press 2 (retirees and beneficiaries).
- Ask NHRS to identify the beneficiary on file and what survivor or death benefit is payable.
- File the survivor or death-benefit claim with the documents NHRS requires.
Frequently asked questions
Contact the New Hampshire Retirement System at 603-410-3500 or 877-600-0158. NHRS handles survivor and death-benefit claims for state and local public employees, teachers, police, and firefighters.
The beneficiary receives a refund of the member's accumulated contributions. Depending on the member's service and whether the death was job-related, an ordinary or accidental death benefit may also be payable, and a pre-selected maximum Survivorship Option can provide a lifetime pension.
It depends on the payment option the retiree elected at retirement. Under a Survivorship Option (2, 3, or 4), the primary beneficiary receives a lifetime pension. Under the Maximum Retirement Allowance or Option 1, no pension continues — the beneficiary receives a lump sum equal to the retiree's accumulated contributions at retirement minus the annuity payments already paid out. A qualified surviving spouse of a Group II retiree may also receive an automatic lifetime allowance equal to 50% of the retiree's pension.
Sources
Data sourced from State Public Pensions in New Hampshire primary sources (7 pages reviewed). How we research.
Administering agency
New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS)
Authority
RSA 100-A (RSA 100-A:12; RSA 100-A:13)