Definition of spouse

Spouse: A person of the same or opposite sex to whom you are married or with whom you have been living for at least one year in a relationship resembling marriage.

To receive a survivor pension benefit, your spouse must fit the above definition before or at the time you retire. If you take a new spouse after your retirement and wish to name her or him as a new spouse (to be entitled to a Pension Survivor benefit) you may do so, at your cost, by choosing a reduced pension. Simply contact the Pension and Benefits Manager to make the change.

Note that you must exercise this option within a limited time.