Americans are placing more of their wealth in retirement accounts. According to the Investment Company Institute it is estimated that $5.9 trillion is stored in employer-based defined contribution plans like 401(k)s and $6.5 trillion is held in IRAs. Both types of retirement accounts require that beneficiary forms be filled out correctly to designate recipients upon the account holder’s passing.
A mistake while filling out beneficiary forms can cause the form to be deemed invalid or may cause account holdings to be dispersed in a way not intended by the account holder. Because beneficiary designation forms on accounts such as IRAs supersede your last will and testament it is imperative that these forms are updated when major life changes occur.
Below are some suggestions to help avoid errors that can end with family headache or account holdings being dispersed in ways that are not intended.
- If the institution that holds your investment or retirement account merges with another bank or changes names, take the time to fill out a new form. The previous form may no longer be valid.
- It is possible for an institution to be unable to locate beneficiary documents; make sure to save a hard copy for your records. It is a good idea to make an emergency file for these types of documents.
- When a major life event in your family occurs (birth, death, marriage or divorce) take the time to review your designated beneficiaries and fill out new beneficiary forms if there are any changes to be made. Because beneficiary forms override a will it is essential that there is no contradiction between the will and the beneficiary form.
- Don’t forget to add “in equal shares” or specific percentages next to names on the beneficiary form to avoid any confusion when the time comes to disperse funds.
- Consult a certified estate planner who is licensed within your state. Mistakes can even be made by professionals if they are not experienced or not aware of state-specific laws and rules.
If you have specific beneficiary designation questions or other estate related questions please contact Adam Thielen, CPA, Principal, at (651)483-4521.