Beneficiary designations are one of the simplest ways to transfer assets—but when not coordinated properly, they can undo an otherwise well-designed estate plan. Retirement accounts, life insurance, and payable-on-death accounts pass directly to the named beneficiary, regardless of what your will or trust says.
Problems arise when designations are outdated, incomplete, or inconsistent with your overall plan. For example, naming one child on an account while your will divides assets equally can create unintended inequality. Beneficiary designations can also bypass trusts that were designed to protect assets for minors, blended families, or special needs planning.
A good estate plan is more than just documents—it requires coordination of all your assets. Contact our office to review your beneficiary designations and make sure your plan works the way you intend.
