Beneficiary Designations FAQs

Non-probate assets—like accounts with named beneficiaries, life insurance, retirement plans, or jointly-held property—transfer by contract or title outside probate. Only assets titled solely in the decedent’s name without a beneficiary normally pass under the will. (Source: uploaded Q&A set)

These are typically non‑probate assets that pay directly to named beneficiaries. If no beneficiary survives or is listed, the proceeds may be payable to the estate and handled in probate.