Retirement > MERS > Member > Death and Survivor Benefits for Active Members
13. What is the difference between a primary beneficiary and a contingent beneficiary with regard to death benefits?
The primary beneficiary is the person or persons selected to receive the death benefit (contributions and interest) in the event of your death. The contingent beneficiary is the person or persons selected to receive the benefit if the primary beneficiary is not alive at the time of your death. Please do not confuse a contingent beneficiary with a contingent annuitant which is an individual who receives may receive part of your monthly pension benefit when it is in pay status.
