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Dianne Williams Wildt, MBA

Certified Retirement Counselor®

Since 1983 in the financial services and investment industry

 

Retirement Pathways, Inc.

4500 Bowling Blvd., Suite 100

Louisville, KY 40207

 

Phone:  502-797-1258

 

Email: dianne@retirementpathways.com

Website: www.retirementpathways.com

September/October 2024

Understanding Beneficiary Designations

Couple of seniors reading a contract or health care proxy or living will

Your will is an important document for passing assets to loved ones when you die, but it doesn’t apply to everything. Life insurance proceeds, retirement accounts, annuities and similar accounts pass through beneficiary designations and are not governed by your will.


Review Your Selections
You chose a beneficiary when you initially set up your accounts. But things can change. Divorce, death of a beneficiary or even a change in your intentions can affect your selections. Revisit your designations periodically to ensure they’re up to date.


Check Old Accounts
Forgetting about 401(k) or other retirement accounts held with former employers can result in outdated beneficiary designations. Remember to include these accounts in your review.


Avoid Mistakes
Take special circumstances into account when you’re naming beneficiaries. Minors will not be able to claim assets until they turn 18 or 21 (depending on the etate). Individuals with special needs can lose valuable government benefits if they receive an inheritance directly. Setting up a trust to receive the assets may help in both situations.


Keep in mind that godparents are not the same as legal guardians but could be a good choice to serve as trustees.


Integrate with Estate Planning
Your financial professional can help you review your beneficiary designations as an integral part of your estate plan.


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Investment advisory services offered through American Capital Management, Inc., a State Registered Investment Advisor. Retirement Pathways, Inc. is independent of American Capital Management, Inc.
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