Texas Government Code - GOV'T § 834.301. Selection of Death Benefit Plan by Member

(a) A member who has at least 10 years of service credit in the retirement system may select a death benefit plan for the payment, if the member dies before retirement, of a death benefit annuity to one or more persons designated by the member. Death benefit annuities available for selection by a member described in this subsection are the optional annuities provided by Sections 814.108(c)(1) and (c)(4).

(b) Section 814.301(b) applies to a death benefit plan selected by a member in applicable circumstances.

(c) The computation of a death benefit annuity must include the ages of the member and of the member's designated beneficiary at the time of the member's death.

(d) A member may select a death benefit plan by filing an application for a plan with the board of trustees on a form prescribed by the board. After selection, a death benefit plan may take effect at death unless the member amends the plan, selects a retirement annuity at the time of the member's retirement, or becomes ineligible to select a plan.

(e) A death benefit annuity is payable beginning on the day after the date the member dies.