Dear Quentin, I’m not looking for an answer for an unlucky investor, but I have a story about how you should be vigilant with ...

Designations are made by assigning a percentage of assets to the beneficiary or successor using a form that is entirely separate from your will or living trust. Designations come in several forms ...

If you die without a will or your will and 401(k) beneficiary are different, the beneficiary designation overrides ... Sign up Heath Ledger is a famous example — he died in 2008 before he ...

To help you fill out the form, you may review guide G00059 Examples of Beneficiary Designations. Consult legal assistance if the guide does not apply to your situation. For legal assistance concerning ...

Passing your assets to the next generation can be simple or it can be complicated, but even the simplest estate plan involves ...

“For example, if the primary beneficiary is ... and given access to the necessary documents, such as the beneficiary designation form and the plan's terms and conditions.

401(k) beneficiary designation supersedes will instructions; maintain accurate listings. Federal law defaults your spouse as 401(k) beneficiary; written consent needed for changes. Annual review ...

It is important that these designations are kept up to date and are consistent with the rest of your estate plan. When you open up an investment account or retirement plan or buy life insurance, the ...

A good example is if you have a retirement plan ... Rather, it’s what you specified on a “beneficiary designation form” in the custody of the agent holding your retirement assets.