What happens if a named beneficiary dies before me?

If a named beneficiary dies before you and you haven't named a backup, that share may pass according to your will's other terms or, in some cases, default to state law rather than your original intent. Naming a backup, or contingent, beneficiary for each gift helps avoid this uncertainty.

General information

• A contingent beneficiary receives a gift only if the primary beneficiary is unable to, such as due to death.
• Without a named contingent beneficiary, a lapsed gift may pass under other will provisions or state law.
• Reviewing your beneficiary designations periodically helps catch situations like this before they become a problem.

Service steps to consider

1. Review your current beneficiary designations for any gaps.
2. Name a contingent, or backup, beneficiary for significant gifts.
3. Update your documents if a named beneficiary has passed away.

Quick check

• Have I named a backup beneficiary for major gifts?
• Do all my named beneficiaries still reflect my current wishes?

How Complete Wills can help

This is exactly why Complete Wills' questionnaire includes a step for naming backup beneficiaries. The guided process specifically prompts you to consider a contingent beneficiary for each major gift, which helps make sure your property still goes where you intend even if your first choice isn't able to receive it.

Important limits

• What happens to a lapsed gift without a named backup can vary by state, and a licensed attorney can explain your specific state's rule.