Published October 18, 2026 · By Terry W. Posey, Esq.

The Ohio Police & Fire Pension Fund’s benefit sheet dated September 4, 2026, outlines financial benefits available to surviving family members.

An eligible surviving spouse receives a statutory benefit of $991.10 per month for life, with an automatic $16.50 monthly increase each July. This payment is in addition to any survivor annuity selected by the member. Eligible unmarried children receive $270.30 monthly per child, with a $4.50 monthly increase each July.

Under R.C. 742.37(E), the ordinary child benefit continues until age 22 or marriage. A separate provision covers children whose physical or mental disability made them totally dependent on the member at death, potentially extending payments for life.

The sheet also identifies a $1,000 lump sum payment for an eligible surviving spouse when a retired member receiving benefits dies. A spouse may also qualify for a survivor annuity, remaining DROP funds, health care support, and partial Medicare Part B reimbursement, depending on eligibility.

Families should review the member’s retirement payment election and keep marriage and beneficiary records current. The statutory payment and an elected survivor annuity are separate benefits.

Read OP&F’s September 2026 benefit sheet for details.