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The Montana 1024 form is a crucial document for volunteer firefighters seeking pension benefits under the Volunteer Firefighters’ Compensation Act (VFCA). This application outlines essential instructions for completing the form and provides detailed information about eligibility requirements and the terms governing pension benefits. To qualify for a full pension, applicants must have at least 20 years of credited service and be at least 55 years old. The base monthly benefit starts at $150, with additional increments for years of service beyond 20 years. Importantly, retirees can opt for partial benefits after 10 years of service, although they must be at least 60 years old. The form also includes sections for survivor benefits, which can be allocated to a spouse or dependent child, and offers the option for direct deposit of monthly payments. Applicants are advised to submit their completed forms and necessary documentation, including a certified birth certificate and a voided check for direct deposit, to the Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) at least 30 days before their anticipated retirement date. Understanding these components is vital for ensuring a smooth application process and securing the benefits earned through years of dedicated service.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Personal Information: Many applicants fail to fill out all required fields, such as their social security number, date of birth, or contact information. Ensure that every section is completed accurately to avoid delays.

  2. Missing Required Documents: Applicants often overlook the necessity of including a certified birth certificate and a voided check for direct deposit. Not attaching these documents can result in the application being returned.

  3. Incorrect Direct Deposit Information: Providing inaccurate bank account details can lead to payment issues. Double-check the account number and routing number to ensure they are correct.

  4. Failure to Sign and Witness: Some applicants forget to sign their application or have it witnessed by a non-beneficiary third party. This step is crucial; an unsigned application will be rejected.

  5. Ignoring Tax Withholding Options: Applicants may neglect to select their tax withholding preferences. This can lead to unexpected tax liabilities later on, so it's important to choose an option that suits your financial situation.

  6. Not Specifying Retirement Date: Failing to clearly indicate the desired retirement date can cause confusion. Remember, your retirement date cannot be earlier than when you meet eligibility requirements.

  7. Overlooking Survivor Information: Applicants sometimes forget to complete the survivor information section. If applicable, this information is essential for determining benefits for your spouse or dependent children.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Montana 1024 form for pension benefits, it's important to be thorough and accurate. Here are seven things you should and shouldn't do to ensure a smooth application process.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting your application.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; incomplete applications may be returned.
  • Do include all necessary documents, such as your certified birth certificate and a voided check for direct deposit.
  • Don't forget to sign your application; all signatures must be witnessed by a non-beneficiary third party.
  • Do double-check your financial institution's information to avoid delays in your direct deposit.
  • Don't use a bank outside the U.S. for your direct deposit; MPERA cannot process these requests.
  • Do submit your completed application at least 30 days before your anticipated retirement date.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application for pension benefits is processed smoothly and efficiently.

Similar forms

The Montana 1024 form is similar to the Social Security Administration's Application for Retirement Benefits. Both documents serve to initiate a pension benefit process for individuals who have met specific eligibility criteria. They require personal information, including date of birth and Social Security number, to verify identity and calculate benefits. Additionally, both forms include sections for selecting tax withholding options and provide guidelines for submitting necessary documentation, such as proof of age or service.

Another comparable document is the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) Retirement Application. Like the Montana 1024, this application is designed for individuals seeking pension benefits after years of service. It outlines eligibility requirements, benefit calculations, and options for direct deposit. Both forms emphasize the importance of submitting completed applications and necessary documents to ensure timely processing of benefits.

The California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) Retirement Application shares similarities with the Montana 1024 form. Both documents require applicants to provide information about their employment history and service years. They also include sections for beneficiaries and direct deposit options. Each form aims to streamline the retirement benefit process while ensuring that applicants understand their entitlements and obligations.

The Texas Teacher Retirement System (TRS) Application for Retirement Benefits is another document with a similar purpose. It guides educators through the retirement application process, just as the Montana 1024 assists volunteer firefighters. Both forms require personal details and information about previous employment. They also offer options for tax withholding and provide clear instructions for submitting the application to avoid delays.

For businesses operating in Texas and involved in the resale of goods, understanding the importance of the Texas Resale Certificate 01 339 form is essential, as it allows them to purchase items without incurring sales tax. This document not only streamlines the purchasing process but also ensures compliance with state tax regulations, ultimately protecting businesses from potential legal issues that may arise from improper handling of tax exemptions.

The New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS) Retirement Application is comparable as well. This form is used by public employees in New York to apply for retirement benefits. Like the Montana 1024, it includes sections for personal information, beneficiary designations, and direct deposit elections. Both documents aim to ensure that retirees receive their benefits efficiently and understand the necessary steps involved in the application process.

The Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Application for Retirement Benefits serves a similar function. It is designed for municipal employees seeking pension benefits after years of service. Both the IMRF and Montana 1024 forms require detailed personal information and documentation to process benefits. They also provide information on eligibility requirements and options for direct deposit, making the transition to retirement smoother for applicants.

The Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Retirement Application is another document with similarities to the Montana 1024 form. This application is intended for state employees looking to retire and receive pension benefits. Both forms require applicants to provide personal details, including Social Security numbers and dates of birth. They also emphasize the importance of submitting required documents to avoid delays in benefit payments.

The Florida Retirement System (FRS) Pension Plan Application shares characteristics with the Montana 1024 form. This application is for public employees in Florida who wish to apply for retirement benefits. Like the Montana 1024, it includes sections for personal information, beneficiary designations, and tax withholding options. Both documents serve to inform applicants of their rights and responsibilities as they transition into retirement.

Lastly, the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) Application for Retirement Benefits is similar to the Montana 1024 form. It is used by public employees in Ohio to initiate their retirement benefits. Both forms require applicants to provide essential personal information and documentation to support their applications. They also include instructions for direct deposit and tax withholding, ensuring that retirees understand their options for receiving benefits.

Instructions on How to Fill Out Montana 1024

Filling out the Montana 1024 form is a critical step for volunteer firefighters seeking pension benefits. It is essential to provide accurate information and include all required documents to ensure a smooth application process. Follow the steps outlined below to complete the form effectively.

  1. Complete Your Survivor Information: Fill in the details of your spouse or dependent child, if applicable. Include their names, social security numbers, and dates of birth.
  2. Direct Deposit Election: Indicate your preference for direct deposit by providing the name and address of your financial institution. Specify the account type and include the account number and routing number. Attach a voided check if using a checking account.
  3. Choose Your Tax Withholding: Select your option for federal and state income tax withholding. Only one option may be chosen.
  4. Provide Required Documents: Attach a copy of your certified birth certificate and a voided check for direct deposit. Ensure all signatures are witnessed by a non-beneficiary third party.
  5. Review and Submit: Double-check all entries for accuracy. Ensure that all required sections are completed before sending the application to MPERA at the provided address.

Documents used along the form

When applying for pension benefits under the Montana Volunteer Firefighters’ Compensation Act (VFCA), several other forms and documents may be necessary to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a list of commonly used forms that accompany the Montana 1024 form, each serving a specific purpose.

  • Direct Deposit Agreement: This document allows retirees to authorize the Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) to deposit pension payments directly into their bank accounts. It requires the account holder's information and a voided check or routing number.
  • Tax Withholding Form: This form enables retirees to select their federal and state income tax withholding preferences. It is essential for ensuring that the correct amount of taxes is withheld from pension benefits.
  • Survivor Benefit Application: If a retiree wishes to designate a survivor, this form is used to outline the terms of the survivorship benefits available to a spouse or dependent child after the retiree’s passing.
  • Birth Certificate Copy: A certified copy of the retiree's birth certificate is often required for identification and verification purposes when applying for pension benefits.
  • Social Security Number Verification: This document may be necessary to confirm the retiree's Social Security number, ensuring accurate record-keeping and tax reporting.
  • S Corporation Election Form - Form 2553 should be submitted to elect S corporation status; for more information, visit smarttemplates.net.
  • Joint Account Holder Certification: If the retiree has a joint account, this form certifies the other account holder's acknowledgment of their responsibilities regarding the account, particularly in the event of the retiree's death.
  • Retirement Application Signature Page: This page requires signatures from the retiree and a non-beneficiary witness to validate the application, ensuring that all necessary parties have acknowledged the request.
  • Change of Address Form: If the retiree has moved, this form updates their address with MPERA to ensure that all correspondence and payments are sent to the correct location.

Completing the Montana 1024 form and its accompanying documents accurately is crucial for a successful pension application. By ensuring all necessary forms are included, retirees can help facilitate a smooth transition into their retirement benefits.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Montana 1024 form can be challenging. Here are some common misconceptions that people often have:

  • You must be an active firefighter to apply for benefits. Many believe that being an active member is necessary. In reality, if you meet the service or age requirements, you can apply even if you are not currently active.
  • Your pension amount is fixed. Some think the pension amount will never change. However, for each year of credited service beyond 20 years, your benefit can increase, offering potential for more financial support.
  • You can receive benefits while still serving. It's a common belief that you can continue to be an active firefighter after starting your pension. This is not true; you cannot remain active once you start receiving benefits.
  • All survivors automatically receive benefits. Many assume that all survivors are entitled to benefits. In fact, survivorship benefits are limited to 40 months, including any benefits paid to the member before death.
  • You don’t need to provide any documents. Some applicants think they can submit the form without any additional paperwork. Required documents, like a certified birth certificate and a voided check for direct deposit, are essential.
  • Direct deposit is optional for everyone. While direct deposit is offered, if you want your payments to be deposited directly, you must complete that section of the application.
  • Tax withholding is automatic. Many believe that taxes will automatically be withheld from their pension. In reality, you need to elect for federal and state taxes to be withheld.
  • You can change your retirement date at any time. Some think they can freely choose their retirement date. However, the retirement date cannot be earlier than when you meet eligibility requirements.

Being informed can make the process smoother. Always read the instructions carefully and ensure you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Example - Montana 1024 Form

Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration

PO Box 200131 • Helena MT 59620-0131

(406)444-3154 • Toll Free (877) 275-7372 http://mpera.mt.gov

VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS’ COMPENSATION ACT (VFCA)

APPLICATION FOR PENSION BENEFITS

Dear Volunteer Firefighter:

Thank you for your service as a volunteer firefighter! The following information includes instructions for completing your Application for Pension Benefits as well as information regarding the terms and conditions of receiving your benefit. Please carefully read the following information, complete the application and return it to the Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) at the address shown above.

Important Information About Your VFCA Benefits

If you meet the service or age requirements, you do not need to be an active member of a fire company when you apply for pension benefits. However, you may not continue to be an active member of any fire company once you start receiving a pension benefit.

You are eligible to receive a full pension benefit after completing at least 20 years of credited VFCA service and reaching age 55. You will receive the full pension benefit for your lifetime. Your base pension monthly benefit will be $150 per month.

For each year of credited service beyond 20 years, and up to 30 years, your benefit will increase by $7.50 per month.

For each year of service beyond 30 years, your benefit may increase an additional $7.50 per month. Eligibility for this additional benefit will be determined annually, based on the pension trust fund being actuarially sound and amortizing within 20 years or less. (This additional benefit applies only if you retire on or after July 1, 2011.)

You can retire with a partial pension benefit after completing at least ten years, but less than 20 years, of credited VFCA service and reaching age 60.

(§§ 19-17-401, 19-17-404, MCA)

Benefit Payment Information

Pension benefits are sent on the last working day of the month and are subject to state and federal taxes.

If you choose to retire and receive a monthly pension benefit, you must sign and return your completed retirement application to MPERA at least 30 days prior to your anticipated retirement date. Please include a:

Copy of your certified birth certificate

A voided check (if you elect direct deposit)

Form 1024

Page 1 of 6

Step 1: Complete Your Survivor Information

A survivorship benefit may be paid to your spouse or a dependent child. A dependent child is under 18 years of age, and is unmarried. Monthly benefits paid to a survivor will equal the member's full or partial pension benefit or disability benefit.

Survivorship benefits are limited to 40 months, including any benefit paid to the member before death. If a member receives benefits for 40 months, no survivorship benefit is available. At the request of the survivor, a lump sum payment for the survivorship benefit may be made instead of the monthly benefit payments.

Step 2: Direct Deposit Election

We are pleased to offer you the safety and convenience of direct deposit of your monthly benefit payment. You must complete this section of your Application for Pension Benefits to authorize MPERA to send your monthly payment to the identified financial institution for deposit in your account. The financial institution may be any bank, savings bank, savings and loan association or similar institution, or federal or state chartered credit union located in the U.S.

Forms received by the 15th of any month will be processed that month. Your payment will be electronically deposited into your bank account on the last business day of each month. MPERA will not send a separate notification that your payment has been deposited, unless the net amount of the payment changes.

SPECIAL NOTICE TO JOINT ACCOUNT HOLDERS

Joint account holders should immediately advise both MPERA and the financial institution of the death of the payee. Payments deposited after the date of death must be returned to MPERA. A determination regarding any death benefit payable will be made by MPERA.

CANCELLATION

The direct deposit of your payment will continue until you notify MPERA, in writing, that you wish to change your account, or upon notification of your death. If you wish to change financial institutions, contact MPERA for a new Direct Deposit Agreement. If changing accounts, do not close your existing account until a payment has been deposited into your new account.

The financial institution may also cancel this agreement upon notification to you, the payee. Please notify MPERA if this occurs.

COMPLETING YOUR DIRECT DEPOSIT ELECTION -- PAYEE CERTIFICATION

By completing the information on the Application for Pension Benefits, I am requesting that MPERA directly deposit my payment from the identified retirement system to the identified financial institution. I certify that I am entitled to payment from the retirement system identified above; I have identified all joint account holders; and I authorize MPERA to make necessary adjustments to my account to collect deposits made in error.

If your payment is to be deposited into your checking account, attach a voided check. If it is to be deposited into your savings account, provide the routing number. Please note: MPERA cannot make direct deposits to banks outside the U.S.

Form 1024

Page 2 of 6

Step 3: Choose Your Tax Withholding

MPERA will not withhold federal and state income taxes from your pension benefit unless you elect withholding. Please select only one option for your federal and state income taxes.

Step 4: Required Documents and Signatures

This step must be completed or your application will be returned. Please include all of the required documents. All signatures must be witnessed by a non-beneficiary third party.

Form 1024

Page 3 of 6

Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration

PO Box 200131 • Helena MT 59620-0131

(406)444-3154 • Toll Free (877) 275-7372 http://mpera.mt.gov

VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER COMPENSATION ACT

APPLICATION FOR PENSION BENEFITS

MEMBER INFORMATION

Name - Last

 

 

First, MI

 

 

Social Security Number*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

 

 

Fire Company You Are Retiring From

 

 

 

/

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

 

 

 

State

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Daytime Phone Number

 

Email Address

 

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Credited Year of Service

 

 

 

Date of Retirement

 

 

 

Assuming all eligibility requirements have been met, your effective date of retirement will be the first day of the month following your termination. You may specify a later date. However, your retirement date cannot be earlier than the date you meet retirement eligibility.

SPOUSE INFORMATION

Last Name

 

 

First Name, MI

 

 

Social Security Number*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

 

 

Daytime Phone Number

Email Address

 

/

/

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

 

 

 

 

State

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEPENDENT CHILDREN (required only if there is no spouse)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name - Last

 

 

First Name, MI

 

 

Social Security Number*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

 

 

Gender

 

 

 

 

/

/

 

 

 

M

F

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name - Last

 

 

First Name, MI

 

 

Social Security Number*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

 

 

Gender

 

 

 

 

/

/

 

 

 

M

F

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name - Last

 

 

First Name, MI

 

 

Social Security Number*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

 

 

Gender

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/

/

 

 

 

M

F

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*For identification and tax purposes. §19-2-403(7) MCA, 26 USC § 6041A and 6109

Form 1024

Page 4 of 6

Direct Deposit Election

RETIREE INFORMATION

I request that MPERA deposit my payment into my account at the financial institution identified below. I certify that I am the account holder of this account and I have identified all joint account holders. I authorize MPERA to make necessary adjustments to my account to collect deposits made in error.

Last Name

 

First, MI

Social Security Number*

 

 

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

 

Retirement Number (leave blank if unknown)

Retirement System

 

 

/

/

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address

 

 

City

State

 

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Daytime Phone Number

()

Signature

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION INFORMATION

MPERA cannot make deposits to banks outside the U.S.

 

Name of Financial Institution

 

 

Phone Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address

 

City

State

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Account Type

Account Number

Routing Number

 

 

 

Checking

 

Savings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JOINT ACCOUNT HOLDER INFORMATION (if applicable)

I certify by signing this Application for Pension Benefits that I understand my responsibilities as a joint account holder to immediately advise both MPERA and the financial institution of the death of the payee and that payments deposited after the date of death must be returned to MPERA. I also understand providing false information or improperly receiving payment may be a criminal offense under Montana and federal law.

Last Name

 

First Name, MI

Social Security Number*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

 

Gender

 

 

 

Daytime Phone Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

F

 

 

 

/

/

 

M

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address

 

 

 

 

City

State

 

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signature

Attach a voided check here if checking account (do not staple).

Please do not attach a deposit ticket.

*For identification and tax purposes. §19-2-403(7) MCA, 26 USC § 6041A and 6109

Form 1024

Page 5 of 6

Tax Withholding

Federal Income Tax information. Please choose only one.

Do not withhold federal income tax.

Withhold federal income tax in the amount of $__________ per month.

Withhold federal income tax based on the tax tables for:

A married individual with _______ tax withholding exemptions.

A single individual with _______ tax withholding exemptions.

In addition to the amount withheld, withhold $_________ per/month.

State Income Tax information. Please choose only one.

Do not withhold State of Montana income tax.

Withhold State of Montana income tax in the amount of $__________ per/month.

Withhold State of Montana income tax based on (#) __________ of exemptions.

In addition to the amount withheld, withhold $_________ per/month.

Required Documents and Signatures

I have enclosed a copy of my certified birth certificate

I authorize one of the following:

I elect direct deposit.

I elect to receive paper checks by mail.

REQUIRED SIGNATURES

I certify that the information submitted herein is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I understand to cancel this application I must notify MPERA in writing before I cash or receive my first monthly pension benefit.

I also certify that I have read and understand all of the information provided with this application.

Your Signature

Date

/ /

I certify that this individual has terminated service with the named fire company or will terminate service as of the designated date.

Name of Fire Chief

Fire Chief Signature

Date

/ /

Form 1024

Page 6 of 6

Understanding Montana 1024

What is the Montana 1024 form?

The Montana 1024 form is an application for pension benefits under the Volunteer Firefighters' Compensation Act (VFCA). It is designed for volunteer firefighters who wish to apply for retirement benefits after meeting certain eligibility requirements. This form must be completed and submitted to the Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) to initiate the pension process.

Who is eligible to apply for benefits using the Montana 1024 form?

To be eligible for benefits, you must meet the service or age requirements outlined in the VFCA. Specifically, you can apply for a full pension benefit after completing at least 20 years of credited service and reaching the age of 55. Alternatively, a partial pension can be obtained after completing at least 10 years of service and reaching the age of 60.

What documents are required when submitting the Montana 1024 form?

When submitting the Montana 1024 form, you must include the following documents:

  • A certified copy of your birth certificate.
  • A voided check if you choose direct deposit for your pension payments.

Make sure all required documents are included, as incomplete applications will be returned.

How is the pension benefit calculated?

The base pension benefit is set at $150 per month for those who qualify. For each year of credited service beyond 20 years, and up to 30 years, the benefit increases by $7.50 per month. If you have more than 30 years of service, you may receive an additional increase of $7.50 per month, contingent on the pension trust fund's financial status.

When will I receive my pension payments?

Pension benefits are deposited on the last working day of each month. If you opt for direct deposit, your funds will be electronically transferred to your bank account. It is important to ensure that your application is submitted at least 30 days before your anticipated retirement date to avoid delays.

Can I change my direct deposit information?

Yes, you can change your direct deposit information by notifying MPERA in writing. If you wish to switch financial institutions, you will need to fill out a new Direct Deposit Agreement. Do not close your old account until you confirm that a payment has been successfully deposited into your new account.

What happens if I pass away while receiving benefits?

If you pass away while receiving benefits, a survivorship benefit may be paid to your spouse or dependent children. This benefit will equal your full or partial pension benefit and is limited to a maximum of 40 months. Survivors can also request a lump sum payment instead of monthly benefits.

What tax implications should I be aware of?

Pension benefits are subject to state and federal taxes. However, MPERA will not withhold taxes unless you specifically elect to have them withheld. You will need to indicate your tax withholding preferences on the Montana 1024 form.

How do I ensure my application is processed smoothly?

To ensure smooth processing of your application, carefully follow all instructions provided with the Montana 1024 form. Include all required documents, complete all sections of the form, and have all signatures witnessed by a non-beneficiary third party. Submitting a complete and accurate application will help avoid delays.

Where can I find more information about the Montana 1024 form?

For more information about the Montana 1024 form and the benefits available under the Volunteer Firefighters' Compensation Act, you can visit the Montana Public Employee Retirement Administration (MPERA) website at http://mpera.mt.gov or contact their office directly at (406) 444-3154 or toll-free at (877) 275-7372.