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Beneficiary Designation Checker

Review your accounts and make sure your assets will pass to the right people -- outside of probate.

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Why Beneficiary Designations Matter

Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance, and bank accounts override your will. This means if your will says one thing but your beneficiary form says another, the beneficiary form wins. Outdated designations are one of the most common estate planning mistakes — especially after divorce, remarriage, or the death of a named beneficiary.

Use our checker above to inventory your accounts and identify any that need updating. Assets with proper beneficiary designations pass outside of probate, saving your family time and money.

For a complete picture of your estate, try our Estate Value Calculatoror take our Estate Planning Assessment to see what documents you need.

Note: This tool provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are not legal advice. Fees and requirements may vary. Full disclaimer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a beneficiary designation?
A beneficiary designation is a form filed with a financial institution (bank, insurer, brokerage, or retirement plan) that specifies who receives the account or policy proceeds when you pass away. These designations override your will and allow the asset to transfer directly without going through probate.
Do beneficiary designations override my will?
Yes. Beneficiary designations take legal priority over your will. Even if your will says "everything to my spouse," a retirement account naming your ex-spouse as beneficiary will go to your ex. It is critical to keep your designations in sync with your overall estate plan.
Which types of accounts allow beneficiary designations?
Most financial accounts support beneficiary designations, including 401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance policies, annuities, bank accounts (via payable-on-death or POD), brokerage accounts (via transfer-on-death or TOD), HSAs, and 529 education savings plans. Real estate can also pass outside probate through joint tenancy, TOD deeds, or trusts.
How often should I review my beneficiary designations?
You should review your beneficiary designations at least once a year and after any major life event -- marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a beneficiary, or significant change in financial circumstances. Outdated designations are one of the most common estate planning mistakes.
What happens if I have no beneficiary designated?
If you die without a beneficiary designation on an account, the asset typically goes to your estate and must pass through probate. This can cause delays, costs, and may not align with your wishes. Some accounts have default rules (e.g., funds go to a surviving spouse), but these vary by institution and account type.