Death Benefits

Provided you did not close your WRS account by taking a separation benefit, your beneficiaries may be entitled to a benefit after your death. Understand how and what benefits are paid upon your death.

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Annuity Payment Options

Use the information provided on this page to choose the retirement benefit payment option that fits you best.

A stack of coins to the left of a glass jar of coins with a growing plant coming out of it, next to an alarm clock and a small picture in the middle front with a couple holding hands and walking on the beach."

WRS Retirement Benefit

The WRS Retirement Benefit is a pension plan that is intended to provide you with a lifetime retirement payment. It offers a retirement benefit based on a defined contribution plan or a defined benefit plan.

ET-6101
Brochure Active Employee / Retiree / Other Benefit Recipient

Death Benefits

Provided you did not close your WRS account by taking a separation benefit, your beneficiaries may be entitled to a benefit after your death.

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Brochure Active Employee / Retiree / Other Benefit Recipient / Board Member / Local Employer / State Employer

Domestic Partner Benefits

As of Sept. 23, 2017, the State of Wisconsin no longer allows the establishment of new domestic partnerships under Chapter 40 of the Wisconsin statutes. This brochure provides information about the benefit changes for established domestic partnerships.

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Form Active Employee / Retiree / Other Benefit Recipient

Beneficiary Designation

If you are the owner of a WRS account from which a WRS death benefit or life insurance benefit would be payable upon your death, you may file a beneficiary designation.

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Retirement Checklist

Planning and preparation are essential for a successful retirement. This page has a list of things you can do to help ensure a smooth changeover to retirement.