DROP AnswersDROP beneficiaries, death and divorce
If you die or divorce during DROP
- Your FRS designated beneficiary receives your DROP accumulation; under Options 2–4 they may also get continuing monthly benefits. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.22]
- Option 2's 120-month guarantee starts when DROP begins. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.22]
- Change Option 1/2 beneficiaries with Form FST-12; joint annuitants can be changed only twice during retirement (Form JA-1). [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.21]
- After divorce you can nullify a joint annuitant with Form JA-NULL unless a QDRO prevents it; under Option 4 the benefit drops by one-third. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.22]
- Survivors of DROP participants are not eligible for in-line-of-duty death benefits. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.22]
Related DROP answers
- Who is eligible for Florida DROP?
- How long can you stay in DROP? (96 months, not 60)
- What interest rate does a DROP account earn?
- DROP termination and the 6-month reemployment rule
- DROP payout options: lump sum, rollover or both
- How does DROP affect your FRS pension?
- How to apply for DROP with Form DP-11
- DROP: Investment Plan vs Pension Plan
- DROP for Special Risk vs Regular Class
Educational information only, based on official Florida Retirement System (frs.fl.gov) publications. Not affiliated with the State of Florida or the Division of Retirement. Chapter 121, F.S., and Chapter 60S, F.A.C., are the final authority. Confirm your situation with the Division of Retirement (850-907-6500 / 844-377-1888). [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.2]