Payable on Death
A bank-account designation that sends the money straight to a named person at death.
What Payable on Death means in an estate
A payable-on-death (POD) designation lets a bank or credit union account pass directly to the named beneficiary when the owner dies, without going through probate. The owner keeps full control while alive and can change the beneficiary at any time; the beneficiary has no access until the owner dies. POD is the account version of a transfer-on-death designation.
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 payable on death 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.