2025 Session Last amended: 2020 session

§ 356.401 — Exemption From Process

Plain-Language Summary

This section protects public pension benefits from being seized by creditors. Pension money cannot be assigned, garnished, levied, or attached, with limited exceptions for divorce proceedings and child support orders. Pension payments can be sent by direct deposit to a financial institution.

Practical Notes
Your public pension benefits are generally safe from creditors and lawsuits. The main exceptions are divorce-related court orders and child support obligations. If a retiree dies and overpayments are made to a joint bank account, the pension plan can issue a subpoena to recover those funds.