Planning for the departure of a loved one is a difficult thing to think about, but no matter how delicate, it is something any pragmatic planner must consider. What happens to your retirement account when you, your spouse or partner pass? When choosing your retirement plan it’s likely that you were asked to designate a beneficiary — the individual who would receive the money accrued in your retirement account in the event of your passing. As difficult as this may be to think about, it’s always best to be prepared for any contingency. Here are a few tips to consider when updating your beneficiary information.
Take Time to Review Your Account
When reviewing your retirement savings account, take time to consider your designated beneficiaries. This is an important step since retirement account assets typically are not governed by your will. Instead, the assets will pass to the beneficiaries named on the account, which is why it is of utmost importance to keep this information up to date.
Spousal Consent Notice
If you’re married, it is imperative that your spouse’s signature consent is signed in front of a notary public, or your plan administrator, to designate anyone besides your spouse as a beneficiary.
Life Changing Events
Remember to make changes to beneficiaries after any significant life event, including marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or any other milestones. If you’re unsure if something qualifies as a ‘life changing event’, your plan advisor will be happy to assist you. By keeping your beneficiary form up to date, you can ensure that your assets will be distributed as you intended.
As always, planning for retirement and keeping your plan up to date — even in the event of unforeseen adverse situations – is very important. Your plan advisor is here to help you through every step, so make sure to reach out at any time with questions.
This material was created to provide accurate and reliable information on the subjects covered but should not be regarded as a complete analysis of these subjects. It is not intended to provide specific legal, tax or other professional advice. The services of an appropriate professional should be sought regarding your individual situation. This material was created to provide accurate and reliable information on the subjects covered but should not be regarded as a complete analysis of these subjects. It is not intended to provide specific legal, tax or other professional advice. The services of an appropriate professional should be sought regarding your individual situation.
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Securities offered through IFP Securities, LLC, dba Independent Financial Partners (IFP), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advice offered through IFP Advisors, LLC, dba Independent Financial Partners (IFP), a Registered Investment Adviser. IFP and Ridgeline Advisors are not affiliated.
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For more information on Keeping Beneficiary Information Updated, contact your plan advisor, Preston Englund at Ridgeline Advisors at 402-461-4893 or
