Life insurance can help give your loved ones the financial security they need after your death. It can help pay bills or give them the space they need to take time off work to grieve. And the beneficiary you list on your policy plays a key role in how this money is distributed.
Dalessandro Agency Inc., serving Grand Rapids, MI, explains.
When a Beneficiary Is Listed
Typically, a beneficiary is listed with their full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Upon your death, the death benefit is distributed to that person (or people, if you select more than one beneficiary). It does not become part of the estate, and beneficiaries are not required to use the death benefit to pay creditors.
If a beneficiary isn’t available due to their death, the death benefit goes to a contingent beneficiary. This is another person you list on your policy to receive the death benefit.
When No Beneficiary Is Listed
Not listing a beneficiary is surprisingly common. It often happens when someone enrolls in a policy through their employer, makes payments, and then fails to complete the beneficiary paperwork.
In this situation, the death benefit often becomes a part of the person’s estate. The probate court will handle who gets the death benefit alongside the rest of the person’s assets. First, assets will be used to pay creditors, such as credit card debt and medical bills. The remaining assets will then be distributed among the heirs.
Here at Dalessandro Agency Inc., we understand the importance of filling out the proper paperwork. Our agents can help you learn more about how a life insurance policy works. We’re currently serving the Grand Rapids, MI, area. Contact us to learn more.