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Sylvia C. Young, CFS, CLTC
Young Financial Group, LLC
920 5th Avenue, Suite 1600
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-346-3252
Fax: 206-521-8784
Email: scyoung@financialguide.com
January/February 2026
Understanding Beneficiary Designations
Your will is an important document for passing assets to loved ones when you die, but it doesn't apply to everything. Life insurance proceeds, retirement accounts, annuities and similar accounts pass through beneficiary designations and are not governed by your will.
Review Your Selections
You chose a beneficiary when you initially set up your accounts. But things can change. Divorce, death of a beneficiary or even a change in your intentions can affect your selections. Revisit your designations periodically to ensure they're up to date.Check Old Accounts
Forgetting about 401(k)s or other retirement accounts held with former employers can result in outdated beneficiary designations. Remember to include these accounts in your review.Avoid Mistakes
Take special circumstances into account when you're naming beneficiaries. Minors will not be able to claim assets until they turn 18 or 21 (depending on the state). Individuals with special needs can lose valuable government benefits if they receive an inheritance directly. Setting up a trust to receive the assets may help in both situations.Keep in mind that godparents are not the same as legal guardians but could be a good choice to serve as trustees.
Integrate with Estate Planning
Your financial professional can help you review your beneficiary designations as an integral part of your estate plan.Sylvia C. Young is a Registered Representative of and offers securities through: MML Investors Services, Inc. (206) 628-8800. Young Financial Group, LLC is not a subsidiary or affiliate of MML Investors Services, Inc. Insurance offered through Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and other fine companies. Young Financial Group, LLC and LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC are unrelated companies. This publication was prepared for the publication’s provider by LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC, an unrelated third party. Articles are not written or produced by the named representative.
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