Beneficiary
Someone who receives assets from a will, a trust, an insurance policy, or a retirement account.
What Beneficiary means in an estate
A beneficiary is designated to receive specific property or a share of an estate. Beneficiaries can be individuals, charities, or trusts. Beneficiaries named directly on a life insurance policy or a retirement account receive those assets outside of probate, which means the will does not control them.
How this works in your state
The concept is national, but the forms, procedure names, thresholds, and filing practice vary by state. Open your state glossary and guides to see how beneficiary is handled where the estate is being settled.
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Information current as of April 4, 2026
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.