📝Worksheet2 min read

Beneficiary Review Worksheet

Category: Estate Planning | FinSeniors, Worthune.com

Using larger text for easier reading

0 of 16 fields completed

Category: Estate Planning | FinSeniors, Worthune.com Beneficiary designations may be the single most important — and most overlooked — part of estate planning. They override your will completely. This worksheet helps you take a full inventory of every account with a beneficiary designation and confirm that each one reflects your current wishes.

Why This Matters

Beneficiary designations are legally binding and supersede your will

Outdated designations (ex-spouses, deceased relatives) can cause serious problems

Missing contingent beneficiaries means the asset may go through probate

Naming a minor child directly can complicate distribution without a trust

Step 1: Retirement Accounts

Step 2: Life Insurance Policies

Step 3: Annuities & Other Accounts

Step 4: Beneficiary Conflict Check

No ex-spouse remains named on any account

No deceased individual is named as a beneficiary

Every account has both a primary AND contingent beneficiary

No minor children are named directly (consider a trust or UTMA account)

No account lists 'my estate' as beneficiary

Beneficiary percentages add up to 100% on each account

Beneficiary names exactly match legal names on file

Step 5: Next Steps

💡 This worksheet is for personal planning purposes only. Consult an estate planning attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

Contact each financial institution to request beneficiary change forms

Complete and submit changes — confirm receipt in writing

Obtain written confirmation that the changes have been recorded

Store copies of all confirmed beneficiary designations with your estate documents

Calendar a review date — at minimum, every 3 years and after any major life event

Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions about your retirement, healthcare, or estate planning. For full terms see worthune.com/disclaimer.

worksheetestate planning