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401(k), 403(b), 457 and TSP Beneficiary Designation Rules

18 of the 26 employer plan beneficiary forms that address per stirpes do not offer it, and all 3 pension systems that mention it refuse it. On ADP’s 401(k) form a child who dies before the participant takes nothing, and neither do that child’s children, because the form says “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, his or her interest and the interest of his or her heirs shall terminate completely.”

The listings below give the beneficiary rules of 55 401(k), 403(b) and 457 recordkeepers, the TSP, both Florida Retirement System plans and large state pension systems, read from each plan’s own forms and plan documents between September 24 and 27, 2026. A plan’s own document can differ from the recordkeeper’s standard form, so a listing drawn from one employer’s plan says so in its account description.

No institution pays to be listed, the page carries no affiliate links, and a listing is not an endorsement of any institution. This is reference information, not legal advice.

What the Plan Forms Say

  1. A share that lapses goes to the other named beneficiaries. The Florida Retirement System Investment Plan says “The percentage payable to a beneficiary who dies before you will be paid equally among the surviving primary beneficiaries.” ADP, Ascensus and Lincoln cut off the predeceased beneficiary’s heirs in terms. To reach grandchildren through a plan account, the owner has to name them, name a trust, or use the plan’s own custom designation where one exists.
  2. Spousal consent. All 44 plan forms that address the point require the spouse’s consent in some circumstance, most often when a married participant names anyone other than the spouse.
  3. The TSP pays the form and nothing else. The TSP says “a will or court order (i.e., divorce decree) is not valid for the disposition of a TSP account”, and its divorce rule says “that spouse will still be entitled to death benefits if you separate or divorce from that spouse.” A new TSP-3 is the only way to change the result.
  4. Pension systems reject forms for their wording. NYSTRS says “Numbering of beneficiaries will result in an invalid designation.” Wisconsin says “Do not use the word "or" when designating multiple beneficiaries.” STRS Ohio says “Do not designate "per stirpes".”

Beneficiary Rules by Plan Provider

Each listing shows the rules the plan documents state, and eight core rules always, marked “Not stated” where the documents are silent. Government plan covers the TSP, the Florida Retirement System Investment Plan and state 457 and defined contribution plans.

ADP Retirement Services

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) employer plan.

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and trust date (TotalSource form); no trustee name asked.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No; heirs of a predeceased beneficiary expressly cut off.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Per plan terms.
If a beneficiary dies first
Form 205, lapsed share to remaining beneficiaries pro rata, heirs cut off; TotalSource, contingents if primaries predecease.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, spouse must be sole primary unless notarized waiver.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, spouse must be sole primary unless notarized waiver.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Form 205, 2 primary and 2 secondary lines, attach more forms; TotalSource, 4 and 4 lines, use the back of the form.
Online designation
Available. Yes; non-spouse designation by married participant routes to paper form with spousal consent.
How to submit
Form 205, to the plan administrator, not ADP; TotalSource, mail or fax to Voya, online when single or naming spouse as sole primary; mykplan.com online.
In the institution’s own words

How to name the trust. “If you designate a trust as a beneficiary, please include the trust name and trust date.” Page 1, form AP894550BENEMAY. Source document

Per stirpes. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, his or her interest and the interest of his or her heirs shall terminate completely, and the percentage share of any remaining beneficiary(ies) shall be increased on a pro rata basis.” Page 1, form BENE(205) 035 04-, revision not legible (form code "035 04-"; employer copy posted 2018). Source document

Default beneficiary. “If none of my designated beneficiaries are living at the time of my death, or I have not designated a beneficiary, then any distribution of my plan accounts shall be payable to a default beneficiary or beneficiaries in accordance with the terms of the plan.” Page 1, form BENE(205) 035 04-, revision not legible (form code "035 04-"; employer copy posted 2018). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, his or her interest and the interest of his or her heirs shall terminate completely, and the percentage share of any remaining beneficiary(ies) shall be increased on a pro rata basis. ... If your Primary Beneficiary(ies) die(s) before you, then Plan benefits will be distributed to Contingent Beneficiary(ies).” Page 1, form BENE(205) 035 04-, revision not legible (form code "035 04-"; employer copy posted 2018). Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married, your spouse must be the sole primary beneficiary, unless your spouse approves otherwise and signs the waiver below. ... If you are legally married and have chosen a primary beneficiary other than your spouse, Section III must be completed and notarized.” Page 1, form BENE(205) 035 04-, revision not legible (form code "035 04-"; employer copy posted 2018). Source document

How the spouse consents. “If you are married, your spouse must be the sole primary beneficiary, unless your spouse approves otherwise and signs the waiver below. ... If you are legally married and have chosen a primary beneficiary other than your spouse, Section III must be completed and notarized.” Page 1, form BENE(205) 035 04-, revision not legible (form code "035 04-"; employer copy posted 2018). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You must attach an additional beneficiary form(s), if you elect to designate more than two primary and/or more than two secondary beneficiaries. ... If you need to add additional names, please use the back of this form” Page 1, form BENE(205) 035 04-, revision not legible (form code "035 04-"; employer copy posted 2018). Source document

Online designation. “log onto your ADP 401(k) Retirement Savings Account at www.mykplan.com, and select the Manage My Beneficiaries option ... If the second option is selected, you will be prompted to complete and return a hardcopy of the Beneficiary Form requiring spousal consent.” Page 1. Source document

How to submit. “Return this form to the Plan Administrator ... DO NOT SEND THIS FORM TO ADP ... If your application is complete, please mail or fax ... you must make or change your beneficiary designations by going online” Page 1, form BENE(205) 035 04-, revision not legible (form code "035 04-"; employer copy posted 2018). Source document

Alight Solutions (Alight Worklife)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) employer plan (example, Alight Solutions LLC's own 401(k) Plan).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Spouse if married, else estate (this plan)
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Written spousal consent for a non-spouse beneficiary.
How the spouse consents
Notary or plan representative witness; paper form required for a non-spouse primary.
Online designation
Available. Yes (Alight Worklife)
How to submit
Online (Alight Worklife); phone (HR Service Center); paper form (notarized) for a non-spouse primary.
In the institution’s own words

Default beneficiary. “If you do not make this election, your beneficiary will default to your spouse if you are married in accordance with federal law or to your estate if you are not married.” Page 9, form SPD (no number), revision 2023-09-01. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married in accordance with applicable federal law when you die, your full account will be paid to your spouse, unless your spouse consents in writing to the naming of another beneficiary.” Page 51, form SPD (no number), revision 2023-09-01. Source document

How the spouse consents. “In this case, a notary public or Plan representative must witness your spouse's consent. ... If you are married and designating someone other than your spouse as a primary beneficiary, you will be prompted to complete, notarize, and return a paper form.” Page 39, form SPD (no number), revision 2023-09-01. Source document

Online designation. “Make or change your beneficiary designation” Page 37, form SPD (no number), revision 2023-09-01. Source document

How to submit. “Your initial beneficiary designation and any changes should be made or updated by using Alight Worklife or by contacting the Company HR Service Center.” Page 39, form SPD (no number), revision 2023-09-01. Source document

Ascensus

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) (Individual(k) owner-only plan form) and 403(b).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Enrollment kit form, trust checkbox per beneficiary line; QRP 481 and 403(b) forms allow "individual(s) or entity"; Individual(k) form individuals only.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be marked primary or contingent (enrollment kit form)
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No; heirs cut off.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate checkbox (enrollment kit form)
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Lapsed share to remaining beneficiaries pro rata, heirs cut off; contingents if no primary survives (all Ascensus forms)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, spouse is primary unless consent witnessed by notary or plan representative; 403(b) version adds QPSA waiver and age 35 rule.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, spouse is primary unless consent witnessed by notary or plan representative; 403(b) version adds QPSA waiver and age 35 rule.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Enrollment kit, 4 lines, attach a list for more; QRP 481, 3 lines plus an "Add beneficiaries" supplement option.
How to submit
Returned to the employer; the Individual(k) form is kept by the participant and not sent to Ascensus.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Please check primary or contingent for each individual beneficiary ... o Entity o Estate o Trust” Page 27, form ARET01773, revision 2016-10. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Please check primary or contingent for each individual beneficiary ... o Entity o Estate o Trust” Page 27, form ARET01773, revision 2016-10. Source document

Per stirpes. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, his or her interest and the interest of his or her heirs shall terminate completely, and the percentage share of any remaining beneficiary(ies) shall be increased on a pro rata basis.” Page 1, form #10481-IK; 1202, revision 2010-06. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “o Entity o Estate o Trust” Page 27, form ARET01773, revision 2016-10. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, his or her interest and the interest of his or her heirs shall terminate completely, and the percentage share of any remaining beneficiary(ies) shall be increased on a pro rata basis. If no primary beneficiary(ies) survives me, the contingent beneficiary(ies) shall acquire the designated share” Page 1, form #10481-IK; 1202, revision 2010-06. Source document

Spousal consent. “I Am Married - I understand that my spouse will be my Primary Beneficiary. However, I understand I may designate a Primary Beneficiary other than my spouse on the space below if my spouse signs the section below entitled "Consent of Spouse." ... The signature of the spouse must be witnessed by a Notary Public or plan representative as required.” Page 1, form #10481-IK; 1202, revision 2010-06. Source document

How the spouse consents. “I Am Married - I understand that my spouse will be my Primary Beneficiary. However, I understand I may designate a Primary Beneficiary other than my spouse on the space below if my spouse signs the section below entitled "Consent of Spouse." ... The signature of the spouse must be witnessed by a Notary Public or plan representative as required.” Page 1, form #10481-IK; 1202, revision 2010-06. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Check here if you are designating additional beneficiaries. Please attach a list that includes the information requested for the” Page 27, form ARET01773, revision 2016-10. Source document

How to submit. “Please return the completed beneficiary designation form to your employer. ... Complete this form for your records only. Do not submit a copy to Ascensus.” Page 28, form ARET01773, revision 2016-10. Source document

Associated Bank, National Association

Employer plan, Bank

Covers Associated Bank Retirement Plan Services employer plans (401(k) and similar).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Online beneficiary screen has a Trust box.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Same entry screen for contingent beneficiaries.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate box.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse consents to a non-spouse primary (ERISA plan rule)
How the spouse consents
Written consent on the paper Beneficiary form returned to HR / benefits; notary or plan representative not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. 100.
Online designation
Available. Online if the plan allows; paper form for a non-spouse primary of a married participant.
How to submit
Online (Retirement.AssociatedBank.com); paper form to HR / benefits.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If the beneficiary is a Trust, Estate, or a Charity, check the corresponding box to fill in the information needed.” Page 4, revision 2025-05. Source document

Trust as contingent. “A similar screen will appear for contingent beneficiaries or editing beneficiary information. ... If the beneficiary is a Trust, Estate, or a Charity” Page 3, revision 2025-05. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “If the beneficiary is a Trust, Estate, or a Charity, check the corresponding box” Page 4, revision 2025-05. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married and are designating someone other than your spouse as your primary beneficiary, your spouse must ... consent in writing for this designation to be valid.” Page 2, revision 2025-05. Source document

How the spouse consents. “To add a primary beneficiary other than your spouse, you will need to download a Beneficiary form. ... Complete ... this form and return this completed form to your HR or Benefits representative.” Page 5, revision 2025-05. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “The maximum number of primary and contingent beneficiaries is 100.” Page 3, revision 2025-05. Source document

Online designation. “To add, change, or remove your primary and contingent beneficiaries for your retirement plan, click on the My Profile ... If your plan allows for online beneficiaries, click Add Beneficiary” Page 2, revision 2025-05. Source document

How to submit. “click Save to save your changes. ... return this completed form to your HR or Benefits representative.” Page 3, revision 2025-05. Source document

Axos Bank

Employer plan, Bank

Covers Axos Advisor Services Solo 401(k) (Solo 401(k) Beneficiary Designation/Change Request 12/2024; affiliate Axos Clearing LLC).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered. Not accepted.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary must be named.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "spouse", "children", "per stirpes" refused as names.
Default beneficiary
Per the plan document.
If a beneficiary dies first
Proportionately to surviving primaries, then contingents.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse consents unless sole 100% primary beneficiary (QPSA waiver included)
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs before a notary; consent irrevocable except by consenting to a new designation.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 6 lines; separate sheet allowed.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Per stirpes. “the terms 'spouse', 'children', or 'per stirpes' are not acceptable designations” Page 1, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

A class like "my children". “The beneficiary(ies) must be named on this form.” Page 1, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

Refused wording. “The beneficiary(ies) must be named on this form. For example, the terms 'spouse', 'children', or 'per stirpes' are not acceptable designations” Page 1, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no designated beneficiary survives me, or if I do not designate a beneficiary, pay the full value of my Account per the provisions of the above-named Plan.” Page 1, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “I understand that if a Primary Beneficiary predeceases me, the remaining portion will be divided proportionately to any surviving Primary Beneficiaries determined under the provisions of the above-named Plan.” Page 1, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

Spousal consent. “Notarized signature is required when the spouse is not listed as 100% primary beneficiary.” Page 2, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Notarized signature is required when the spouse is not listed as 100% primary beneficiary. ... Notary Public Acknowledgment” Page 2, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you wish to designate additional beneficiaries than space allows below, please check the box and attach a separate sheet of paper” Page 1, revision 2024-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-04-20. Source document

Betterment

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Betterment at Work 401(k) (Betterment for Business LLC administrator).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, then children equally, then estate; also if the beneficiary cannot be located.
If a beneficiary dies first
Proportionally to surviving primaries.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Married participant naming anyone other than the spouse as sole primary.
How the spouse consents
Written consent before a notary or plan representative.
Online designation
Available. Online in the Betterment interface.
How to submit
Online.
In the institution’s own words

Default beneficiary. “if no designated beneficiary survives you, or if Betterment Securities, as the custodian, cannot locate the beneficiary, Betterment will distribute the benefits to your spouse, if living; or, if your spouse isn't alive or you have no spouse, to your children in equal shares; or if no children, to your estate.” Web page, revision 2025-12-22. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “in the event your primary beneficiary or beneficiaries do not survive you, the benefit will be allocated proportionally among the remaining primary beneficiaries according to the rules of your 401(k) plan” Web page, revision 2025-12-22. Source document

Spousal consent. “if you are legally married under federal law, your spouse must be the sole primary beneficiary unless he or she consents to the designation of another beneficiary in writing” Web page, revision 2025-12-22. Source document

How the spouse consents. “consents to the designation of another beneficiary in writing in the presence of a notary or plan representative using this form or as otherwise required by your plan administrator” Web page, revision 2025-12-22. Source document

Online designation. “The following terms apply when you designate one or more beneficiaries ... for your account(s) in the Betterment interface. ... With respect to any 401(k) beneficiary designations” Web page, revision 2025-12-22. Source document

How to submit. “any change or revocation must be provided in writing to Betterment via the Betterment interface” Web page, revision 2025-12-22. Source document

BNY Mellon, National Association

Employer plan, Bank

Covers BNY mutual fund 403(b)(7) custodial account (form RET-403BF-0525; BNY Retail Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; custodian not named on the form).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust name and date (affiliate fund form)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Each line may be primary or contingent.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Custodian line; the owner cannot be custodian.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. The estate may be named.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To surviving primaries; contingents only if all primaries predecease.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Any number (6 lines on the form)
How to submit
Mail (regular or overnight) to BNY Shareholder Services, Pittsburgh; copy to the employer.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Beneficiary's Full Name (first, middle, last) or Trust Name ... Date of Birth/Trust (month/day/year)” Page 2. Source document

Trust as contingent. “You can name any number of beneficiaries and you can designate each of them as a primary or contingent beneficiary. ... Beneficiary's Full Name (first, middle, last) or Trust Name” Page 1. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Custodian, if beneficiary is a minor (account owner cannot be designated as the custodian)” Page 2. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “if your beneficiary is your estate, the balance in your 403(b)(7) Custodial Account will be paid to your estate” Page 1. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no beneficiary survives you, if no beneficiary designation is in effect at your death, or if your beneficiary is your estate” Page 1. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Your entire 403(b)(7) Custodial Account balance will be paid to the beneficiaries who survive you. If you name two primary beneficiaries but one of them dies before you, the entire balance will be paid to the surviving beneficiary. ... only if all primary beneficiaries die before you” Page 1. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You can name any number of beneficiaries and you can designate each of them as a primary or contingent beneficiary.” Page 1. Source document

How to submit. “You have the right to change your beneficiaries at any time by filing a proper written request with the Custodian. You should also give a copy to your Employer. ... Please mail this completed form to:” Page 1. Source document

California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS)

Employer plan, Public pension system

Covers CalPERS Supplemental Income 457 Plan (governmental 457(b), Voya Financial recordkeeper; form PR450001BENEMAINTE).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date; examples use "[trustee], Trustee(s) of [trust] dated [date]", also a testamentary trust "created under my Will dated" and a successor trustee.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Spouse or registered domestic partner, children, parents, estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Contingents if primaries predecease; then the plan document's order.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse or registered domestic partner must consent unless sole primary beneficiary.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs a notarized community property waiver; consent irrevocable unless the participant revokes the designation.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 4 contingent lines; more names on the back of the form.
How to submit
Fax; mail; overnight delivery to Voya Financial; form must be dated within the last 90 days.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You may name a Trust as a primary or contingent beneficiary.” Page 1, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

Trust as contingent. “You may name a Trust as a primary or contingent beneficiary.” Page 1, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

How to name the trust. “please include the trust's name and date ... George Smith and Clara Smith, Trustees of the George Smith and Clara Smith Living Trust dated August 2, 2013” Page 1, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you do not complete and return this form, then upon your death your benefits will be paid in the following order of priority: (1) your spouse or registered ... domestic partner; (2) your natural or adopted children; (3) your parents; or (4) your estate.” Page 1, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If your primary beneficiary(ies) dies before you, then Plan benefits will be distributed to your Contingent Beneficiary(ies). ... If none of the above-named beneficiary(ies) survive me, all benefits under the Plan will be distributed according to the provisions stated in the Plan Document.” Page 2, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

Spousal consent. “must consent in writing in Section 4 of this form or your designation will not be valid or effective” Page 1, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Has the Spousal consent section been signed and notarized (with an official notary stamp or seal) ... my consent is irrevocable unless my spouse/domestic partner revokes the beneficiary designation” Page 2, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you need to add additional names use the back of this form.” Page 1, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

How to submit. “Please submit your completed form by fax or mail” Page 3, form PR450001BENEMAINTE. Source document

California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772); Post-retirement lump-sum benefits (Retired Death Benefit, Return of Remaining Contributions, temporary annuity balance) (form PERSBSD509P, PUB 98); Retirement payment option (lifetime monthly) beneficiary and changes after retirement (PUB 98); Survivor or beneficiary payee's designation for the prorated final allowance (form myCalPERS 0777); Nonmember (former spouse or partner with a separate CalPERS account) pre-retirement lump-sum designation (form myCalPERS 0774).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. A trust may be named as beneficiary; the form has primary and secondary sections (trust as secondary not addressed separately)
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date required; trustee name not needed.
Trust documents
Requested. Not at designation; CalPERS Certification of Trust form at claim; trust EIN required for payment.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Class of next of kin, e.g. "grandchildren"
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Not accepted. CalPERS form only, no alterations.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Minor may be paid via guardian of the estate or court order; up to $10,000 to a custodian.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Probated estate only.
Default beneficiary
Spouse or RDP, children, parents, siblings, probated estate, trust, stepchildren, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, great-grandchildren, cousins; survivor allowances to a spouse or minor children may override a designation.
If a beneficiary dies first
To secondary beneficiaries on the primaries' death.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Required unless spouse or RDP is sole primary; without consent CalPERS awards 50% of the community property share to the spouse.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs an irrevocable community property waiver and a Gov. Code 21261 acknowledgment with date of marriage; no notary; Justification form if spouse cannot sign.
Effect of divorce
Revokes (on the start of dissolution, also on marriage, birth or adoption, refund); a designation filed after dissolution starts is not revoked when final.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 3 secondary lines; signed extra sheet, no limit stated.
Online designation
Available. MyCalPERS online account or a new paper form (Public Agency and Schools Reference Guide)
Notary or medallion
Required. Member's and spouse's signatures on the retirement election must be notarized or witnessed by a CalPERS representative (Disability Retirement Election Application CalPERS-1200, 12/2023; the service retirement application was not saved)
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Paper 0772 needs a wet signature; online designation through myCalPERS is a separate route.
How to submit
Mail; fax; online.
Processing time
Confirmation letter generally within four weeks.
How to disclaim
Described. Non-spouse lifetime beneficiary may disclaim during the member's life on a notarized CalPERS form; removes the beneficiary but is not a qualifying event to name a new one.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You may designate a trust as your beneficiary; however, you must provide the name of the trust, the date of the trust, and the name and address where the trust is filed.” Page 5, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Trust as contingent. “You may designate a trust as your beneficiary ... Your Secondary Beneficiary Information” Page 2, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

How to name the trust. “you must provide the name of the trust, the date of the trust” Page 5, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Trust documents. “If the claim is being made by the trustee of a trust ... Certification of Trust form (required only if” Page 6, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

A class like "my children". “A class of next-of-kin as a group ... you can list your "grandchildren" or "siblings" ... instead of writing out individual names” Page 18, form PERSBSD509P, revision 2021-12, Post-retirement lump-sum benefits (Retired Death Benefit, Return of Remaining Contributions, temporary annuity balance) (form PERSBSD509P, PUB 98). Source document

Custom designation. “Changes on the form are not acceptable unless specified on the instructions page.” Page 129, form CON-7, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “proof of guardianship of the child's estate or another court order may ... Up to $10,000 may be paid to a custodian” Page 5, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “You may name as beneficiary any person or persons, a corporation, or your estate. Payment will be made to your estate only if probated.” Page 5, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Default beneficiary. “If A and B do not apply and there is no valid beneficiary designation on file at the time of death, the benefits will be payable to your survivors in the following order ... Your estate (if probated, or subject to probate); or if not ... Your trust (if one exists); or if not” Page 5, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “The benefit is paid to your named secondary beneficiary or beneficiaries upon the death of your primary beneficiary or beneficiaries.” Page 6, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Spousal consent. “If you answered yes above, your spouse or registered domestic partner must sign this beneficiary designation unless you have designated him or her as the sole primary beneficiary of any lump-sum benefits.” Page 4, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

How the spouse consents. “Otherwise, you must complete and submit the Justification for Absence of Spouse's or Registered Domestic Partner's Signature form. ... if I do sign my consent is irrevocable ... Per Government Code section 21261” Page 3, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Effect of divorce. “Your beneficiary designation will be revoked automatically ... The initiation of a dissolution or annulment of your marriage or of a legal termination of your ... a designation filed after the initiation of a dissolution/annulment of a marriage or of a termination of registered domestic partnership is” Page 5, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “To name additional primary beneficiaries, attach a blank sheet of paper with your additional beneficiary information.” Page 6, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Online designation. “Members may designate or change beneficiaries at any time through their online account at my.calpers.ca.gov” Page 129, form CON-7, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Notary or medallion. “notarized by a notary public or witnessed by a CalPERS representative” Page 13, revision 2023-12, Retirement payment option (lifetime monthly) beneficiary and changes after retirement (PUB 98). Source document

Electronic signature. “A wet signature is required on the form.” Page 129, form CON-7, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

How to submit. “P.O. Box 942711, Sacramento, CA 94229-2711 ... Or fax to: (800) 959-6545 ... through their online account at my.calpers.ca.gov” Page 12, form PERSBSD509P, revision 2021-12, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

Processing time. “a confirmation letter will be mailed to the member generally within four weeks” Page 129, form CON-7, Pre-retirement lump-sum death benefits for active and inactive members (Basic Death Benefit, return of contributions, group term life) (form myCalPERS 0772). Source document

How to disclaim. “Non-Spouse or Non-Domestic Partner Disclaimer form ... signature must be notarized and the form returned” Page 12, form PERSBSD509P, revision 2021-12, Retirement payment option (lifetime monthly) beneficiary and changes after retirement (PUB 98). Source document

California State Teachers' Retirement System (CalSTRS)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002); Defined Benefit option beneficiary and Defined Benefit Supplement / Cash Balance beneficiary annuity (lifetime monthly benefit); Payee's own recipient designation after a member's death (On-going Payee's Beneficiary Designation SB0708; Option Payee's Beneficiary Designation); Nonmember spouse account holder recipient designation (former spouse or partner with a separate account, form NM2031).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Person, estate, trust, corporation, charity, parochial institution or public entity.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Additional recipient pages have Primary / Secondary boxes and a Trust box.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date and trustee name required.
Trust documents
Not requested. Not at designation; CalSTRS contacts the trustee at death.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each person individually with SSN and birth date (required fields)
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Enter "My Estate"
Default beneficiary
Estate (no designation, or all recipients predeceased)
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased or disclaiming recipient's share goes proportionally to the remaining recipients of the same class; then secondary; then estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse or registered domestic partner must sign (acknowledgment) whoever is named.
How the spouse consents
Spouse gives SSN and birth date; Justification for Non-Signature form if spouse does not sign; no notary; missing signatures mean rejection; online the spouse signs in the same format as the member.
Effect of divorce
Revokes (former spouse or partner designation invalid; must re-designate after divorce to keep them); also a refund of contributions invalidates the designation.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 6 recipient sections; extra recipients on an attachment, no limit stated.
Online designation
Available. MyCalSTRS.
Electronic signature
Accepted. MyCalSTRS online submission; handwritten or electronic signatures (same format for member and spouse)
How to submit
Online; mail; fax; in person; overnight courier.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You may name a living person, an estate, a trust” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Trust as contingent. “If I survive the primary recipients, I designate the secondary recipients ... Additional Recipient or Recipients ... FULL NAME OF PERSON, TRUST OR ORGANIZATION” Web page, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

How to name the trust. “trustee's name* and address, and the date ... DATE OF BIRTH/TRUST DATE (MM/DD/YYYY)*” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Trust documents. “Do not provide your trust document at this time ... the trustee and pay benefits to the trust” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

A class like "my children". “To designate a person or ... persons, check the box and provide full ... Social Security number,* birth date* ... We will reject your form if any required” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “To designate your estate, check ... the box and enter "My Estate" for the” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If I survive all of my named recipients, then any benefit payable at the time of my death will be paid to my estate ... If you did not name a one-time death benefit recipient, we'll make the payment to your estate.” Page 3, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any of your primary recipients predeceases you ... designated to that recipient will be distributed proportionally to all your remaining primary recipients” Page 1, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married or registered as a domestic partner, your spouse or partner must also sign and date your form acknowledging your recipients” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

How the spouse consents. “If your spouse or registered domestic partner does not ... sign your form, you must complete the Justification ... Failure to have the required signatures will result in the ... or partner's signature must be submitted in the same format” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Effect of divorce. “If the dissolution judgment or termination and your death occur after January 1, 2002, the one-time death benefit recipient designation of your former spouse or registered domestic partner is invalid.” Page 101, revision 2026-07-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Use additional sheets if needed ... Check this box if additional recipients are listed on an attachment” Page 9, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Online designation. “Complete and submit your form online using myCalSTRS for faster processing. ... Designate your one-time death benefit recipient using your” Page 3, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Electronic signature. “Complete and submit this form online using ... or partner's signature must be submitted in the same format” Page 1, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

How to submit. “Complete and submit your form online using myCalSTRS ... Hand deliver your form to a local CalSTRS office ... 916-414-5783 or 916-414-5784 ... If you are using a special mailing service such as UPS or” Page 2, form MS0002, revision 2026-01, Defined Benefit one-time death benefit and Cash Balance lump-sum recipient designation (Recipient Designation MS0002), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-04. Source document

Capital Group / American Funds RecordkeeperDirect

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers RecordkeeperDirect 401(k).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Paper form with consent kept by the employer.
Online designation
Available. Online, but a married participant naming a non-spouse primary must use a paper form.
How to submit
Online (participant website; enrollment flow in the mobile app); paper form returned to the employer, who enters it on the plan sponsor website.
In the institution’s own words

Spousal consent. “The participant must complete this form and obtain spousal consent as required by plan rules/regulations and then return the paperwork to the employer. The employer is then responsible for inputting the beneficiary information on the plan sponsor website and retaining the paper form with plan records.” Web page. Source document

Online designation. “Primary and contingent beneficiary designations can be modified post-enrollment via the participant website or mobile app. ... Please note that married participants are not able to designate a primary beneficiary other than their spouse online.” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “Primary and contingent beneficiary designations can be modified post-enrollment via the participant website or mobile app. ... The participant must complete this form and obtain spousal consent as required by plan rules/regulations and then return the paperwork to the employer.” Web page. Source document

Charles Schwab (incl. legacy TD Ameritrade accounts converted to Schwab)

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers 403(b)(7) Custodial Account (Schwab as custodian; current IRA and 403(b)(7) beneficiary form).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust name and trust date; no trustee name asked.
Per stirpes
Offered. Yes, for individuals only; one election per account.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Schwab's own definition, limited to the named beneficiary's living children (one generation); may differ from state law.
Per capita
Offered. One election per account; Schwab's own one-generation definition.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Named individuals only; a later-born child is not included.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Not accepted. No statement accepting custom language; attachment only for extra names; designation must be "on the form provided"
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, then living children equally (not stepchildren), then estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Yes, per capita; an Authorized Party must certify who takes.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Current form (APP10149-22, IRA and 403(b)(7)), community property warranty only; the older 2007 403(b)(7) form (APP39005) had the owner certify spousal consent whenever the spouse was not primary; no spouse signature line on either.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; attach a signed, dated sheet.
Online designation
Available. Yes (login required)
How to submit
Upload by secure message; fax; branch; online options at schwab.com/beneficiaries (the 2007 form was mailed or taken to a branch)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Trust/Organization/Estate (If Trust, include full Trust name.) ... Relationship (Select only one.) ... Trust” Page 4, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiaries ... Trust/Organization/Estate (If Trust, include full Trust name.)” Page 1, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

How to name the trust. “Trust/Organization/Estate (If Trust, include full Trust name.) ... Date of Birth/Trust Date (mm/dd/yyyy)” Page 4, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Per stirpes. “Select either a per stirpes or a per capita distribution option. Only one option may be selected per account. ... Per stirpes and per capita are options for individual beneficiaries only; for trusts or organizations (such as charities), designate only a percentage.” Page 2, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “Per stirpes and per capita distributions are limited to your named beneficiary's children and no further descendants. ... The definition of per stirpes and per capita in this form may differ from the definition of per stirpes and per capita under your state's laws and/or your will or trust.” Page 1, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Per capita. “Select either a per stirpes or a per capita distribution option. Only one option may be selected per account.” Page 3, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

A class like "my children". “you. Your designation of named individuals who ... may be in the same class as other individuals ... (e.g., your children or grandchildren) will not ... include the other unnamed members of that” Page 9, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Custom designation. “You must designate your beneficiaries in writing on the form provided. ... If more than four Primary or Contingent Beneficiaries are designated, attach a separate sheet of paper, signed and dated as it appears on this application.” Page 7, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Relationship (Select only one.) ... Trust / Organization / Estate” Page 4, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If I do not designate a Beneficiary, the balance of the account shall be distributed in the listed order of priority to the following named person(s) surving [sic] me: a) my spouse, b) my living children (natural or legally adopted) in equal shares; stepchildren are not legally defined as descendants for these purposes, c) my estate.” Page 1, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If all of your named beneficiaries die before you, Schwab will distribute your assets equally among all of the living children of your named beneficiaries, if any. ... If you indicate per stirpes or per capita for a named beneficiary, Schwab will require the Authorized Party (named in Section 5) to certify the identity of the per stirpes/per capita beneficiary(ies) prior to distributing your assets.” Page 2, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Spousal consent. “If I live in a state with community property statutes and do not designate my spouse as the sole Primary Beneficiary, I represent and warrant that my spouse has consented to such designation. ... If I do not designate my spouse as the Primary Beneficiary, I have obtained the consent of my spouse to such designation.” Page 8, form AEM10330989, revision 2024-11. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If more than four Primary or Contingent Beneficiaries are designated, attach a separate sheet of paper, signed and dated as it appears on” Page 7, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Online designation. “If you wish to indicate additional designation options, please visit www.schwab.com/beneficiaries.” Page 4, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

How to submit. “Upload online with secure messaging (if you are an existing client and have online access to your Account). ... Fax to 1-888-526-7252. ... Bring to your nearest Schwab branch” Page 8, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Corebridge Financial (VALIC Retirement Services Company)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 403(b) mutual fund account.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Contingent lines carry the same Trust Date field as the primary lines.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Offered. Write "Per Stirpes" after the name.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Descendants take the deceased beneficiary's portion.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Class "children" / "all my children" recognized (lawful and adopted children only), though the form asks to list each by name.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA/UGMA custodian required.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate allowed.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate, unless the plan document says otherwise.
If a beneficiary dies first
To remaining beneficiaries unless per stirpes.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spousal consent to move away from the spouse.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; additional signed sheets allowed.
Online designation
Available. Online if the plan allows it.
How to submit
Fax; mail (Amarillo, TX); online if the plan allows.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “A beneficiary may be an individual, institution, estate, or trust.” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Trust as contingent. “CONTINGENT BENEFICIARIES - Contingent beneficiaries receive death benefits if all the primary beneficiaries are deceased at the time of the ... Trust Date” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Per stirpes. “A designation of "Per Stirpes" after the beneficiary name allows the descendants of the deceased beneficiary to receive the deceased beneficiary's portion.” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “allows the descendants of the deceased beneficiary to receive the deceased beneficiary's portion” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

A class like "my children". “Only lawful children, born to or legally adopted by the Client, shall be included as a class if the class designation of "children" or "all my children" is named as Beneficiary. ... To ensure that all beneficiaries are identified, list each by name.” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “VALIC Retirement Services Company will only pay claims to a beneficiary who is a minor through a custodian or an alternative guardianship arrangement. If you have named a minor as your beneficiary, you must designate a custodian under your states' Uniform Transfers (Gifts) to Minors Act” Page 2, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “A beneficiary may be an individual, institution, estate, or trust.” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Default beneficiary. “In the event that no Beneficiary is designated, the Plan distribution will be paid to your estate unless the plan document provides otherwise. ... If there is no Beneficiary living when the Client dies, payment shall be made to the Client's estate unless the plan document provides otherwise.” Page 2, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “When there are multiple beneficiaries and one predeceases you, the proceeds will be divided between the remaining beneficiaries.” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you change your beneficiary from your spouse to a non-spouse, a spousal consent will be required before the change becomes effective.” Page 2, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Check here if you have named additional primary beneficiaries on a separate sheet, signed, dated and attached to this form.” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

Online designation. “Depending on your Plan's role you may have the ability to define and update your beneficiary designation by accessing your account online at corebridgefinancial.com/retire” Page 1, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

How to submit. “Please fax this form to 1-877-202-0187 or mail to the address below for processing” Page 2, form VL 19577, revision VER 10/2024. Source document

E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers 401(k) (Individual 401(k) / qualified retirement plan held at E*TRADE).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust name and latest amendment or restatement date; no trustee name.
Per stirpes
Offered. Yes, individuals only; default per capita.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Descendants as defined by state law, by right of representation; creates a class.
Per capita
Offered. Checkbox per beneficiary; default when neither is checked.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "per will", "per trust" and similar wording invalid.
Custom designation
Not accepted. No, "per will" or "per trust" designations are invalid; attachment only for more than four beneficiaries.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes; guardian paperwork required.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes (agreement)
Default beneficiary
Spouse, else estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Per capita (share lapses to other named beneficiaries)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, notarized spouse consent if any non-spouse is primary; QPSA waiver only for money purchase plans (401(k) uses REA safe harbor)
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs on the form; witnessed by a notary or plan representative (form Section 7 notary block)
Effect of divorce
Revokes unless the decree designates the spouse; re-designation after divorce needed to keep the ex-spouse.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 lines; attach a separate sheet for more.
Online designation
Paper only. Paper form (forms library offers view online and PDF only); the service agreement mentions an "electronic equivalent" of the form but none is offered.
How to submit
Paper form sent to E*TRADE (mail); beneficiaries can only be viewed online.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Type of Beneficiary ... Name (for trusts, provide trust or agreement date)” Page 1, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Primary / Contingent [per beneficiary]” Page 1, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

How to name the trust. “If you elect to name a trust as your beneficiary, please provide the full trust name and latest amendment or restatement date for the trust.” Page 1, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Per stirpes. “Per Stirpes: the share of any individual beneficiary who predeceases you will pass to his or her descendants, as defined by applicable state law. ... This designation is not available for entity beneficiaries, such as trusts. ... If per capita or per stirpes is not indicated, it will be deemed to be per capita.” Page 1, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “any share otherwise payable to a beneficiary shall instead be paid to that beneficiary's surviving descendants by right of representation if the original beneficiary does not survive me. I also acknowledge that "per stirpes" creates a category of beneficiaries” Page 2, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Per capita. “You have two ways to choose how your QRP account will be left to your beneficiaries: Per Capita: all surviving primary beneficiaries will receive their designated share of the account. ... If per capita or per stirpes is not indicated, it will be deemed to be per capita.” Page 1, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Refused wording. “Designations that include "per will" or "per trust" or substantially similar language will be considered invalid.” Web page. Source document

Custom designation. “The Participant must identify the Beneficiary with sufficient specificity and in an acceptable manner. Designations that include "per will" or "per trust" or substantially similar language will be considered invalid.” Web page. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “In the event that distributing my QRP results in any or all assets passing to a minor, all necessary paperwork will be completed by the minor's legal guardian and proof of the guardian's appointment will be provided.” Page 2, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “The Participant may designate an individual, trust, the Participant's estate, charitable organization or other entity as a Beneficiary of the Account.” Web page. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no Beneficiary designated by the Participant on the Designation of Beneficiary Form survives the Participant, the Employer directs the Custodian to pay the remaining balance of the Account to the Participant's spouse, or where no Spouse exists, to the Participant's estate.” Web page. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Per Capita: all surviving primary beneficiaries will receive their designated share of the account. ... Grandchildren will not receive a share if any children listed as primary beneficiaries are still living.” Page 1, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Spousal consent. “5. CONSENT OF SPOUSE (IF ANY NON-SPOUSE BENEFICIARY IS NAMED AS PRIMARY BENEFICIARY) ... Signature of QRP Participant's Spouse (Must be notarized - Section 7) ... It does not apply to Profit Sharing Plans and 401(k) Plans, since these plans include an REA Safe Harbor provision.” Page 2, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

How the spouse consents. “their spouse must consent to such designation on the Designation of Beneficiary Form, and the spouse's consent must acknowledge the effect of such designation and be witnessed by a notary public or plan representative. ... Signature of QRP Participant's Spouse (Must be notarized - Section 7)” Page 2. Source document

Effect of divorce. “If I designate my spouse as beneficiary, my designation will automatically be void upon the dissolution of my marriage by divorce or annulment ... will pay my QRP as if this beneficiary died before me, unless the decree of divorce or annulment designates my spouse as the beneficiary.” Page 2, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you wish to designate more than four primary or contingent beneficiaries attach a separate sheet and include all the information as indicated below.” Page 1, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Online designation. “Designation of Beneficiary (Qualified Plan) Specify who will receive your non-IRA retirement account in the event of your death View Beneficiaries / Download PDF” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “I understand that I may change my beneficiary(ies) by completing a QRP Designation of Beneficiary Form and sending it to E*TRADE. ... Designation of Beneficiary (Qualified Plan) Specify who will receive your non-IRA retirement account in the event of your death View Beneficiaries / Download PDF” Page 2, form 0323-QRPDB-B67958 (Ascensus base form (c)2010), revision 03/23. Source document

Edward Jones

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers 401(k) (owner-only 401(k) at Edward Jones).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes, living and testamentary trusts, and separate share subtrusts.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust title and original execution date; testamentary trust by will date.
Trust documents
Not requested. No; designation must name who instructs Edward Jones; it cannot include trust terms.
Per stirpes
Offered. Yes, but only if the designation names the individual whose descendants take (name, SSN, DOB); Edward Jones will not determine class members.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Yes, if the ancestor is identified by name, SSN and date of birth; bare "per stirpes" or "my descendants" refused.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Published "bad examples", bare per stirpes, trusts without full title and original date, testamentary trust without will date.
Custom designation
Accepted. Yes, explicitly; attorney drafts can be pre-reviewed by the Estates Hotline; signature must be dated within 60 days of receipt; attorney letters of instruction not accepted as designations.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes (estate is also the last default)
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, any surviving spouse who is not sole primary must have consented (no community property condition)
How the spouse consents
Edward Jones form (spouse signs before a witness, no notary) or attorney-drafted consent; spouse may revoke in writing before the owner's death.
How to submit
Through the financial advisor (branch); custom drafts may be faxed to the Estates Hotline for pre-review.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Custom beneficiary designations can specify beneficiary types including individuals, entities, trusts and separate share trusts.” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Custom beneficiary designations can specify beneficiary types including individuals, entities, trusts and separate share trusts.” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

How to name the trust. “Good Example: 100% to the John Wayne Doe Revocable Trust U/A dated 01/01/01 ... Original date the trust agreement was executed by the grantor/settlor (not the most recent amendment or restatement date)” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

Trust documents. “The designation cannot include specific terms of any trust entitled to receive the assets, and Edward Jones cannot accept variations which alter the Edward Jones Custodial Agreement.” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

Per stirpes. “For per stirpes designation the following information must be included in the designation: Full legal name of the individual whose descendants are designated Social Security number ... Date of birth ... Bad Example: 100% per stirpes Bad Example: 100% to John Doe, per stirpes” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

A class like "my children". “Full legal name of the individual whose descendants are designated ... Good Example: 100% to the per stirpes descendants of John Doe; Social Security number of John Doe: xxx-xx-xxxx, date of birth of John Doe xx/xx/xx.” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

Refused wording. “Bad Example: 100% per stirpes Bad Example: 100% to John Doe, per stirpes ... Bad Example: My Trust dated ... Bad Example: Testamentary Trust under my Last Will” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

Custom designation. “Edward Jones accepts custom-drafted beneficiary designations for a variety of retirement plans. Supported documents include traditional, Roth, SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, as well as owner-only 401(k) plans. ... If you would like the Edward Jones Estates Hotline to review a draft of a custom designation before it's signed by a mutual client to determine whether Edward Jones will accept it, please fax a copy of the draft document ... The client's signature must be dated within 60 days of receipt at the Edward Jones home office.” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “then (3) my estate” Page 4, form 5305-A, revision 2025-09. Source document

Spousal consent. “For owner-only 401(k) plans: If conditions (a) and (b) below are met at the time of the client's death, Edward Jones requires an executed spousal consent to support the beneficiary designation. (a) The client has a surviving spouse; and (b) The surviving spouse is not the sole designated primary beneficiary.” Web page, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Note: A spousal consent document may be custom drafted by the client's attorney, or an Edward Jones Spousal Consent form may be obtained from a local branch office. ... Signature of Spouse ... Signature of Witness” Page 1, form custodial agreement LGL-7414Q-A-E-CC (URL name LGL-7414M-A), revision agreement REV. SEP 2025. Source document

How to submit. “Contact your financial advisor to update your beneficiary designations. ... please fax a copy of the draft document and your request for review to (877) 818-0584” Web page, form CPA-2485F-A. Source document

Empower

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) (standard Empower form; plan-specific versions are generated per plan).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name, trust date and TIN on the form; trustee name not asked.
Trust documents
Requested. Not at designation; additional documentation may be required at death claim for estate or trustee beneficiaries (sponsor service overview)
Per stirpes
Not offered.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Per the plan document's default hierarchy or applicable law.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased beneficiary's share goes to surviving beneficiaries of the same class (no per stirpes)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, spouse must be 100% primary unless notarized consent (profit-sharing exception plan); consent valid 180 days; handwritten only.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, spouse must be 100% primary unless notarized consent (profit-sharing exception plan); consent valid 180 days; handwritten only.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; attach additional sheet for more.
Online designation
Available. Yes, online at empowermyretirement.com (Account, Overview, Beneficiaries); paper form 781610-01 also accepted (overrides earlier "not stated")
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Wet signature required on the paper form (participant, spouse, notary, plan administrator); online designation is separate.
How to submit
Online; upload; mail; express mail (no hand delivery)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Relationship ... My Estate A Trust Other ... Example 2: Trust as Beneficiary ... Trust of Jane Doe XX-XXXXXXX 06/30/2015” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary Name (Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.)” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How to name the trust. “Primary Beneficiary Name (Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.) ... Date of Birth or Trust Date ... Trust of Jane Doe” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Trust documents. “NOTE: Additional documentation may be required certify different types of beneficiaries such as estate or trustee.” Page 2. Source document

Per stirpes. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving primary beneficiaries.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “My Estate ... Example 3: Estate as Beneficiary” Page 5, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If I fail to designate beneficiaries, amounts will be paid pursuant to the terms of the Plan or applicable law. ... If a participant did not designate a beneficiary or all designated beneficiaries predecease the participant, assets may be distributed to claimants according to the plan document's default hierarchy or payout order.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving primary beneficiaries. ... If a contingent beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving contingent beneficiaries.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Spousal consent. “If I am married, my Plan requires my spouse to be named as primary beneficiary for 100% of my account balance, or my spouse must consent to my beneficiary designation. ... The spouse's signature must be notarized by a Notary Public. ... Consent must be obtained no more than 180 days prior to the effective date of the original request in order to be effective.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How the spouse consents. “If I am married, my Plan requires my spouse to be named as primary beneficiary for 100% of my account balance, or my spouse must consent to my beneficiary designation. ... The spouse's signature must be notarized by a Notary Public. ... Consent must be obtained no more than 180 days prior to the effective date of the original request in order to be effective.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “B Beneficiary Designation (Attach an additional sheet to name additional beneficiaries.) ... Participants may designate multiple beneficiaries.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Online designation. “Log in to tell us who should receive them ... sign in, go to Account, click on ... Add a beneficiary to your account today.” Page 1, form RO4576790-0625. Source document

Electronic signature. “A handwritten signature is required on this form. An electronic signature will not be accepted and will result in a significant delay.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How to submit. “Uploaded Electronically: ... Login to account at ... Click on Upload Documents to submit ... Sent Regular Mail to: ... Sent Express Mail to: ... We will not accept hand delivered forms at Express Mail addresses.” Page 3, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Equitable (EQUI-VEST 403(b) annuities)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts; State of Iowa 457 and 401(a) plans (Momentum, 2004 form).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust with name, date and acting trustees.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust instruction applies to primary and contingent lines.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust name, date and current trustees; sample wording "Trustee(s) under Trust Agreement dated ..."
Per stirpes
Offered. Per stirpes shown in a sample written designation.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Sample class designations ("annuitant's children")
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Accepted. Narrative designations (sample wording with survivorship conditions) and attached listings; no review process stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Sample designation.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. ERISA TSA and Keogh contracts.
How the spouse consents
Notary or plan administrator.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; attached listing allowed.
How to submit
Mail (regular or express); fax number printed in the header.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If a trust is designated as a beneficiary, please include the full name of the trust and the date and name(s) of the present acting trustee(s).” Page 1, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

Trust as contingent. “If a trust is designated as a beneficiary, please include the full name of the trust ... (b) If all Primary Beneficiaries pre-decease me, I designate” Page 1, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

How to name the trust. “please include the full name of the trust and the date and name(s) of the present acting trustee(s) ... Trustee(s) under Trust Agreement dated February 1, 1994.” Page 1, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

Per stirpes. “if not then living in equal shares to the annuitant's children who are then living and to the then living children of any deceased child of the annuitant, per stirpes.” Page 3, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

A class like "my children". “In equal shares to the annuitant's children who are living at the death of the annuitant, should none then be living in equal shares to the annuitant's parents” Page 3, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

Custom designation. “If you require additional space, please provide a listing for all desired primary or contingent beneficiaries, relationships, Address(es), and Social Security Number and include with this signed and dated election form. ... Sample Beneficiary Designations” Page 3, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Annuitant's executors or administrators (Annuitant's estate).” Page 3, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

Spousal consent. “For TSA plans subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) & all Non-Trusteed Keogh (HR-10) plans and contracts which were formerly trustee owned: If you are a current or former Annuitant in one of these plans, your spouse's consent is required” Page 2, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

How the spouse consents. “One of the following two statements must be completed and witnessed by a Notary Public or Plan Administrator.” Page 2, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you require additional space, please provide a listing for all desired primary or contingent beneficiaries” Web page, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

How to submit. “Regular Mail: ... Charlotte, NC 28201-1430 ... Fax: 816-701-4969” Page 1, form X03435_6_f (Cat. #125279), revision 2024-01, EQUI-VEST 403(b) (TSA) and Keogh contracts. Source document

Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers TSP (federal 401(k)-type plan; civilian, uniformed services, and beneficiary participant accounts).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and trustee's name and address; EIN if available; no trust date asked.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No; tertiary beneficiaries barred.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each individual named with share and date of birth or SSN (Form TSP-3, 2017); no class designation described.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Designations by will or court order refused.
Custom designation
Not accepted. No, altered forms and will-based designations invalid.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. A minor may be named; paid directly to the child unless a UTMA custodian is designated (form from the ThriftLine)
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Statutory order, spouse, children (deceased child's share to descendants), parents, estate executor, next of kin (5 U.S.C. 8424(d))
If a beneficiary dies first
To the primary's own contingents, else pro rata to other designated beneficiaries, else statutory order; simultaneous death = predeceased; a beneficiary dying before payment passes to his or her estate; a trust not in existence at death lapses to the other beneficiaries.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke; former spouse still paid unless a new designation is made.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. 20.
Online designation
Available. Yes (primary method)
How to submit
Online (My Account); ThriftLine; paper TSP-3 by mail or fax directly to the TSP (not the agency), received before death and within 365 days of signing.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You can designate up to twenty beneficiaries of your account including persons, a trust, a corporation, your estate, or another legal entity (including a foundation or charity).” Page 6, form TSPBK31, revision 2024-03. Source document

Trust as contingent. “in your secondary account, you will need to assign either "primary" or "contingent" to each beneficiary.” Page 6, form TSPBK31, revision 2024-03. Source document

How to name the trust. “If the beneficiary is a trust, check the box marked ... Enter the name of the trust and the trustee's name and” Page 6, form TSP-3, revision 2017-05. Source document

Per stirpes. “You cannot designate tertiary beneficiaries (i.e., "third-in-line" beneficiaries who would be entitled to a share of your account if the primary and contingent beneficiaries die before you do) for a TSP account.” Page 6, form TSPBK31, revision 2024-03. Source document

A class like "my children". “For each individual you designate, enter the full name, share” Page 6, form TSP-3, revision 2017-05. Source document

Refused wording. “Only a Form TSP-3 is valid for designating beneficiaries to your TSP account(s); a will or court order (i.e., divorce decree) is not valid for the disposition of a TSP account. ... A will may not be used to designate a beneficiary of a TSP account.” Web page, form TSP-3, revision 2017-05. Source document

Custom designation. “You do not alter this form or any information you provide on it. ... You do not submit your will or direct us to make a designation according to your will.” Page 2, form TSP-3, revision 2017-05. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If the beneficiary is a minor child, benefits will be ... made payable directly to the child ... To designate a custodian for your ... you may want to consider using a Uniformed Transfer” Page 6, form TSP-3, revision 2017-05. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “your estate” Page 5, form TSPBK31, revision 2024-03. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you die with a balance in your TSP account and you did not designate beneficiaries for that account, the account will be distributed according to the following order of precedence required by law: 1. To your spouse 2. If none, to your child or children equally, with the share due any deceased child divided equally among that child's descendants 3. If none, to your parents equally or to your surviving parent 4. If none, to the appointed executor or administrator of your estate 5. If none, to your next of kin” Web page, form TSPBK33, revision 2026-01. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If there are no contingent beneficiaries, the deceased beneficiary's share will be paid to the other designated beneficiaries in proportion to the shares designated by the participant. ... If a beneficiary dies at the same time as the participant, the beneficiary will be treated as if he or she had died before the participant. ... If a beneficiary dies after the participant but before payment is made, the beneficiary's share will be paid to the beneficiary's estate.” Web page. Source document

Effect of divorce. “By law, the TSP must pay your properly designated beneficiary(ies) under all circumstances. For example, if you designate your spouse as a beneficiary, that spouse will still be entitled to death benefits if you separate or divorce from that spouse or remarry and do not change your beneficiary designation. ... For death benefit purposes, your designated beneficiary will receive your account, even if you divorce.” Web page, form TSPBK08, revision 2026-01. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You can designate up to twenty beneficiaries of your account” Page 6, form TSPBK31, revision 2024-03. Source document

Online designation. “To designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries, log in to My Account on tsp.gov or use one of the ThriftLine Service Center options” Page 6, form TSPBK31, revision 2024-03. Source document

How to submit. “To designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries, log in to My Account on tsp.gov or use one of the ThriftLine Service Center options ... The TSP must receive a Participant's Form TSP-3 on or before the date of their death, and no more than 365 calendar days after it is signed. ... Fax: 1-866-817-5023” Page 6, form TSPBK31, revision 2024-03. Source document

Fidelity Investments (Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC)

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Self-Employed 401(k) (Fidelity plan document).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Checkbox per beneficiary.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Checkbox.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date and TIN; no trustee name asked.
Per stirpes
Offered. Checkbox.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Right of representation; creates a class.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary named individually.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, else estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse must be sole primary or consent.
How the spouse consents
Notarized spouse signature (U.S. notary); a later marriage nullifies an earlier designation.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Copy the page for more.
Online designation
Available. Online.
How to submit
Online; upload; mail.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Non-Spouse / Trust / Other Entity” Web page, form 1.925787.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiaries ... Trust” Page 2, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

How to name the trust. “Date of Birth/Trust MM DD YYYY” Page 1, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

Per stirpes. “If you outlive a beneficiary and you want that beneficiary's share to go to his or her descendants, check "Per stirpes."” Page 1, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “if you check "per stirpes," that any share otherwise payable to a beneficiary shall instead be paid to that beneficiary's surviving descendants by right of representation if the original beneficiary does not survive the account owner. ... "per stirpes" creates a category of beneficiaries” Page 2, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

A class like "my children". “by name does NOT create a category of” Page 2, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

Default beneficiary. “if you do not properly name a beneficiary, or no beneficiary survives you, your beneficiary will be your spouse or, if you are not married, your estate in accordance with the rules of succession in the Plan Document.” Page 2, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married, and you designate anyone other than your spouse as beneficiary, you must provide a notarized signature of your spouse in Section 5. ... Notarized signature required if spouse is not the only primary beneficiary.” Page 1, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Notarized signature required if spouse is not the only primary beneficiary. ... The marriage of ... a Participant shall nullify any designation of a Beneficiary previously exe-” Page 3, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you need more room for information, make a copy of the relevant page.” Page 1, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

Online designation. “You can change beneficiaries any time at Fidelity.com/beneficiary.” Page 1, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

How to submit. “complete, sign, and submit using the ... can the QR code OR go to Fidelity.com/upload-DCRP-Bene ... You can change beneficiaries any time at Fidelity.com/” Page 1, form 1.929800.107, revision 2025-06. Source document

Fidelity Workplace Investing (NetBenefits)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 403(b) and 401(k) (ERISA plan with QPSA).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust is a listed relationship.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date; TIN (or owner SSN); one trustee if available.
Trust documents
Not requested. Told not to send the trust.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No per stirpes option; lapse to survivors.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Accepted. Signed and dated attachment.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Allowed; guardian may be needed.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Per plan document.
If a beneficiary dies first
Pro rata to surviving beneficiaries.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. At least 50% to spouse absent consent.
How the spouse consents
Notary or plan representative; pre-age-35 designation voids.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke unless law or plan requires.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 + 3 lines; attach a signed, dated sheet for more.
How to submit
Upload in NetBenefits app; mail or overnight mail.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Relationship to Applicant: Spouse OR Trust OR Estate/Charity OR Other ... Trust Name” Page 3, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary(ies) ... Trust Name ... Date of Birth or Trust Date” Page 3, form 1.471260.114. Source document

How to name the trust. “If you designate a trust as a beneficiary, please include the trust's name and the date the trust was created.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Trust documents. “Do not send a copy of the trust agreement.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Per stirpes. “If a percentage is indicated and a primary beneficiary(ies) does not survive you, the percentage of that beneficiary's designated share shall be divided among the surviving primary beneficiaries in proportion to the percentage selected for them.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Custom designation. “To assign additional beneficiaries, or to designate a more complex beneficiary designation, please attach, sign, and date a separate piece of paper with this information.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If you should choose a minor, a person who is not legally competent, or an estate as beneficiary, it may be necessary to have a guardian or administrator appointed before any proceeds can be paid.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Estate/Charity ... Naming an estate: Letters of appointment issued by the court naming the executor or administrator of the estate must be provided when a claim is filed.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Default beneficiary. “if I choose not to designate a beneficiary, distributions will be made according to the plan document or, if applicable, the Fidelity Investments Section 403(b)(7) Individual Custodial Account Agreement.” Page 5, form 1.471260.114. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a percentage is indicated and a primary beneficiary(ies) does not survive you, the percentage of that beneficiary's designated share shall be divided among the surviving primary beneficiaries in proportion to the percentage selected for them.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married, your plan requires you to designate that your spouse receives at least 50% of your vested account balance unless your spouse consents” Page 2, form 1.471260.114. Source document

How the spouse consents. “your spouse must sign the Spousal Consent portion of this form in the presence of a notary public or a representative of the plan. ... If this designation occurs prior to the first day of the plan year in which you attain age 35, this designation is void on the earlier of (a) the first day of the plan year in which you attain age 35, or (b) the date of your separation from service.” Page 2, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Effect of divorce. “this designation is not automatically revoked by your divorce from the former spouse. Unless ... otherwise required by applicable federal or state law, or the terms of your retirement plan document, your former spouse will remain” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You are not limited to three primary and three contingent beneficiaries.” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

How to submit. “Digitally using the NetBenefits® Mobile App ... Tap: Actions > Send a Document ... Regular Mail” Page 1, form 1.471260.114. Source document

Florida Retirement System (FRS) Investment Plan

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper, Florida

Covers FRS Investment Plan (defined contribution, governmental 401(a)).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. A minor may be named; natural guardian may handle up to $15,000; court guardianship above that.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, then children, then parents, then estate (s. 121.4501(20), F.S.); later marriage revokes a pre-marriage designation.
If a beneficiary dies first
Lapsed share split equally among surviving primaries; contingents only if all primaries are dead.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse acknowledgement signature (not ERISA consent) if spouse is not primary.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs an acknowledgment (not a consent) on IPBEN-1 or Form IPBENACK-1; no notary stated; affidavit waiver if spouse cannot be found or refuses.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; copy the page for more.
Online designation
Available.
How to submit
Online (MyFRS.com); phone; mail; fax.
Processing time
As soon as administratively possible; generally effective at close of business on the day received (MyFRS help page)
How to disclaim
Described. Written, irrevocable and unqualified; filed with the Plan Administrator within 9 months (or 9 months after age 21); no prior acceptance; partial allowed; notarized letter suffices.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You may designate any person, organization or trust, or your estate.” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent beneficiaries are optional and must be different than your primary beneficiaries” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

Per stirpes. “The percentage payable to a beneficiary who dies before you will be paid equally among the surviving primary beneficiaries.” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “When a minor child or children is/are the designated beneficiaries of the member ... In all cases in which a minor is a beneficiary of an account balance which is greater than $15,000, the surviving parent(s), or other relative or other interested party, must apply for a formal guardianship.” Web page, revision 2026-03-07. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “or your estate” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If the member does not designate a beneficiary(ies), or if no designated beneficiary survives the member, then the member's beneficiary(ies) will be those specified by Section 121.4501(20), F.S. which are: the deceased member's spouse; or if there is no surviving spouse, then the deceased member's children ... if no children survive, the deceased member's father or mother, if living; otherwise the deceased member's estate.” Web page, revision 2026-03-07. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “The percentage payable to a beneficiary who dies before you will be paid equally among the surviving primary beneficiaries.” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

Spousal consent. “I understand that if I am married and have named someone other than my spouse as my primary beneficiary, my spouse needs to sign this designation ... Spousal Acknowledgement: By signing below, I hereby acknowledge that, as the spouse of the Member named above, I am aware that my spouse designated someone other than me” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Spousal Acknowledgement: By signing below, I hereby acknowledge that, as the spouse of the Member named above, I am aware that my spouse designated someone other than me ... If the spouse cannot be located or refuses to sign the acknowledgement, the member may request that the acknowledgement requirement be waived by submitting an affidavit setting forth facts and circumstances.” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you need to add more than 3 primary or contingent beneficiaries, make a copy of this page and attach it to this form.” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

Online designation. “You may change your beneficiary at any time by logging in MyFRS.com or by completing a new Beneficiary Designation form.” Page 1, form IPBEN-1, revision 2023-07. Source document

How to submit. “Alternatively, a beneficiary may also be designated electronically by logging on to MyFRS.com ... or by calling the Investment Plan Administrator ... MAIL your completed form to: FRS Investment Plan Administrator ... OR FAX your completed form to” Page 1, revision 2026-03-07. Source document

Processing time. “The Investment Plan Administrator processes the designation as soon as administratively possible ... the beneficiary designation generally takes effect the close of business on the day the designation is received.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-06-06. Source document

How to disclaim. “A designated beneficiary may disclaim any monetary interest as provided in chapter 739, F.S., and Internal Revenue Code s. 2518. ... There is no special form or document that an individual must complete to disclaim inherited assets. A letter, duly notarized, is sufficient as long as it meets the requirements set forth in paragraph (b).” Web page, revision 2026-03-07. Source document

Florida Retirement System (FRS) Pension Plan

Pension, Plan recordkeeper, Florida

Covers FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001); FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; designation at and after retirement, payment options 1 to 4 and DROP).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes, but a trust named by a member who dies before retirement gets only a refund of contributions.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Trust documents
Requested. Copy of the trust instrument and the trustee's acceptance; identification of the natural person paid through the trust.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. A minor may be named, with benefits paid through a trust if desired; statutory default pays minors' benefits on their behalf.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, then living children, then parents, then estate (s. 121.091(8), F.S.)
If a beneficiary dies first
Contingents after all primaries die; anything left goes to the last beneficiary's estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. At retirement a married member choosing option 1 or 2 (no lifetime survivor benefit) needs the spouse's acknowledgment on Form SA-1; no spousal signature on FST-12 beneficiary changes.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs SA-1 before a Florida notary; an acknowledgment, not a consent.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; extra copies allowed.
Online designation
Available.
Notary or medallion
Required. Member signs FST-12 before a notary.
How to submit
Mail (Division of Retirement, PO Box 9000, Tallahassee); online (FRS Online)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “A member may designate as beneficiary any person, organization, trust, or his or her estate ... If a member who dies prior to his or her effective date of retirement has designated a trust as his or her beneficiary, such trust shall be entitled only to a refund of the member's contributions” Web page, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Trust as contingent. “2. Contingent Beneficiary(s)” Page 2, form BEN-001, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Trust documents. “When a member makes a beneficiary designation involving a trust, either upon application for retirement or after retirement, he or she shall file with the Division: 1. A copy of the trust instrument; and, 2. A copy of the acceptance of the trusteeship by the trustee” Web page, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; designation at and after retirement, payment options 1 to 4 and DROP). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “An active or retired member may designate a trust as beneficiary or may designate a beneficiary whose benefits are to be paid through a trust ... the living children of the deceased member, or on their behalf if under 18 years of age” Web page, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “any person, organization, trust, or his or her estate” Web page, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Default beneficiary. “if no beneficiary is designated or if no designated beneficiary survives the member, the beneficiary shall be determined in the following order: the spouse of the deceased member; or if the spouse is not living, the living children of the deceased member ... the deceased member's father and/or mother, if living; otherwise, the legal representative of the deceased member's estate.” Web page, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “After the death of all primary beneficiaries, any remaining benefits are paid to the ... contingent beneficiary(s) ... After the death of all primary beneficiaries and contingent ... beneficiaries, any remaining benefits are paid to the last beneficiary's estate.” Page 2, form BEN-001, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Spousal consent. “IF YES AND YOU SELECTED OPTION 1 OR 2, YOUR SPOUSE MUST ALSO COMPLETE BOX 2. ... acknowledge that the member has selected either Option 1 or 2.” Page 1, form SA-1, revision 2010-01, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; designation at and after retirement, payment options 1 to 4 and DROP), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-20. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Notarized Signature of Spouse ... Notary: State of Florida, County of” Page 1, form SA-1, revision 2010-01, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; designation at and after retirement, payment options 1 to 4 and DROP), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-20. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “To designate more than two primary or contingent beneficiaries, use additional copies of this form as needed.” Page 2, form BEN-001, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Online designation. “Your beneficiary designation can also be securely updated by logging in to your FRS Online account.” Page 1, form BEN-001, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Notary or medallion. “Return the notarized form to the Division of Retirement at the above address ... Member Signature (sign in the presence of a Notary)” Page 1, form FST-12, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; designation at and after retirement, payment options 1 to 4 and DROP), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-03-06. Source document

How to submit. “Return the form to the Division of Retirement at the above address ... Your beneficiary designation can also be securely updated by logging in to your FRS Online account.” Page 1, form BEN-001, revision 2016-07, FRS Pension Plan (defined benefit; active and terminated members, Form BEN-001). Source document

Guideline (Gusto Retirement)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers Guideline 401(k).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trusts allowed.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Minors allowed; guardian needed if under 18 at payout.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate allowed.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, children, parents, estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To the other primaries.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Any non-spouse designation.
How the spouse consents
Notarized; new consent for each change.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. 10 primary and 10 secondary.
Online designation
Available. Online, Account Settings page.
How to submit
Online.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “In general, you can leave your 401(k) account to the following beneficiaries of your choosing: Individuals Trusts Charities” Web page. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “While you can name a minor as a beneficiary, if the minor has not turned 18 by the time they” Web page. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “or if you wish you can name your estate as your beneficiary. The executor (the individual appointed to administer your estate) will either need to contact us and have a notarized Small Estate Affidavit completed or go through probate” Web page. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you don't name a beneficiary, or if none of your beneficiaries survive you, your account will be distributed in the following order: Surviving spouse Children (split equally) Parents (split equally) Your estate” Web page. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary is unable to inherit the funds, their portion will be evenly distributed to the other primary beneficiaries before any secondary beneficiaries can claim the funds.” Web page. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you want to designate a beneficiary other than your spouse, your spouse's notarized, written consent is required.” Web page. Source document

How the spouse consents. “your spouse's notarized, written consent is required. Additionally, if you want to change to a different beneficiary later on, you must receive notarized consent again.” Web page. Source document

Effect of divorce. “if you divorce, your former spouse's rights to your account will not be revoked automatically, even if you have a domestic relations order (DRO)” Web page. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You may select up to 10 primary beneficiaries and 10 secondary beneficiaries.” Web page. Source document

Online designation. “When setting up your Guideline 401(k), you will be asked to designate a beneficiary within the Account Settings page.” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “you will be asked to designate a beneficiary within the Account Settings page” Web page. Source document

John Hancock Retirement (Manulife John Hancock)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) and 403(b) plans recordkept by John Hancock Retirement Plan Services.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. A trust may be named; extra paperwork required (not described)
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Lapsed share to surviving primaries pro rata; equal shares if no percentages; contingents only if no primary survives (GP5500US)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Consent if spouse is not sole primary; an unmarried participant's designation ceases on later marriage (GP5500US; ERISA plan rules)
How the spouse consents
Notary (with seal) or plan representative witness; consent limited to the named primary beneficiaries.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; attach a signed and dated sheet for more (GP5500US)
Online designation
Available. Online under My profile; not for every designation (spousal consent or trust needs paperwork)
How to submit
Online (John Hancock site); paper form GP5500US kept by the plan administrator, not sent to John Hancock.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Additional paperwork is also required if you name a trust as your beneficiary.” Page 2, form MS1111254977833, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-03-08. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a percentage is indicated and a primary beneficiary(ies) does not survive me, the percentage of that beneficiary's share shall be divided among the surviving primary beneficiary(ies) in proportion to the percentages shown ... Payment to secondary beneficiaries will be made according to the rules of succession described for Primary Beneficiary.” Page 1, form GP5500US, revision 2019-04. Source document

Spousal consent. “If I am married and have not designated my spouse as my sole primary beneficiary, this designation of beneficiary will not be effective unless consented to by my spouse below. If I am not married on the date I sign this Beneficiary Designation Form, but subsequently become married prior to benefit commencement, I understand that this designation of beneficiary shall cease to be effective upon my marriage.” Page 1, form GP5500US, revision 2019-04. Source document

How the spouse consents. “your spouse's certification must be notarized by a Notary Public or witnessed by a Plan Representative ... I understand that my spouse cannot change any primary beneficiary in the future without my written consent.” Page 1, form GP5500US, revision 2019-04. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you choose to name more than two Primary and/or Contingent Beneficiary(ies), please attach a separate sheet of paper with your additional designations. You must also sign and date the additional sheet of paper.” Page 1, form GP5500US, revision 2019-04. Source document

Online designation. “Sign in to your account ... Select Update my beneficiary info ... Depending on who you select as your beneficiary, you may not be able to update your account online.” Page 1, form MS1111254977833, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-03-08. Source document

How to submit. “Select Update my beneficiary info ... The form will be retained by the Plan Administrator and does not need to be submitted to John Hancock.” Page 2, form MS1111254977833, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-03-08. Source document

Lincoln Financial

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 403(b)/401(k) employer plan.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date (with the trust name in the name field); no trustee name asked.
Trust documents
Requested. Signed copy of the trust, later amendments, and (4/24 edition) an affidavit on special trust circumstances.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No; heirs cut off.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Surviving spouse if married; otherwise per plan document or state law.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased beneficiary's share goes to the remaining beneficiaries; the predeceased beneficiary's heirs are cut off.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, spouse must be sole beneficiary unless written consent witnessed by plan administrator or notary; naming a trust also requires consent.
How the spouse consents
Spouse's signature witnessed by the plan administrator or a notary (seal and date)
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; complete and sign an additional form for more.
Online designation
Available. Yes if plan allows.
How to submit
Online if the plan allows; email (pdf, tif, png; 4/24 edition); fax; mail; express mail; phone.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “1. Primary beneficiary Spouse Non-spouse Trust Other entity” Page 1, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

Trust as contingent. “1. Contingent beneficiary Spouse Non-spouse Trust” Page 2, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

How to name the trust. “Date of birth/trust (mm/dd/yyyy)” Page 1, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

Trust documents. “If you designate a trust as a beneficiary, a copy of the signed trust is required, as well as an affidavit explaining any special trust circumstances; such as look through trust, special needs trust, etc. ... If the trust is amended in the future, any amendments must be provided to Lincoln.” Page 1, form RPS81739-AL-LFG, revision 2024-04. Source document

Per stirpes. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, their interest and the interest of their heirs will terminate completely.” Page 1, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If I am married and I do not name a beneficiary, all death benefits will be paid to my surviving spouse. If both of the following applies, all death benefits will be paid according to the retirement plan document provisions or applicable state regulations: I am not married or do not have a surviving spouse ... If no beneficiary survives or I do not name a beneficiary” Page 3, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, their interest and the interest of their heirs will terminate completely. The percentage share of any remaining beneficiary or beneficiaries will acquire the designated share of my balance.” Page 1, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

Spousal consent. “Under this retirement plan, if you are married, your spouse must be the sole beneficiary to your plan benefits unless your spouse has consented in writing to your alternative beneficiary designation(s). If you are married and you wish to name a trust or someone other than your spouse as primary beneficiary, you and your spouse must review and complete the information on this form.” Page 1, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Plan administrator's signature or notary's signature ... sign here as a witness to your ... a notary sign, seal, and date where” Page 3, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “To name more beneficiaries than ... and sign an additional Beneficiary” Page 2, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

Online designation. “If available to your plan, visit the Lincoln website and make changes to your online account” Page 3, form RPS81701-AL-LFG, revision 2018-06. Source document

How to submit. “If available to your plan, visit the ... Return all documents to: ... [email protected] ... (Accepted format: .pdf, .tif, .png) ... If faxing, include both the” Page 3, form RPS81739-AL-LFG, revision 2024-04. Source document

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual)

Employer plan, Insurer

Covers MassMutual annuity contracts under ERISA TSA, Keogh (H.R. 10), qualified plan and former qualified plan (Annuity Contract Change Request).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust may be named on individually owned contracts; plan-owned contracts must name the plan as primary.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be contingent.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date asked; trustee name not asked.
Per stirpes
Offered. Per beneficiary line; natural persons only; default no.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Predeceased beneficiary's share to that beneficiary's surviving children, before contingent beneficiaries.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA/UGMA custodian per line (not with per stirpes; not in Vermont or Puerto Rico); else court-appointed guardian.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. "Estate of the Insured" is a beneficiary type.
Default beneficiary
Owner or owner's estate; surviving joint owner is primary on listed contracts.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased share to survivors in the same class pro rata (except per stirpes lines)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. ERISA qualified contracts, Keogh and former qualified plan contracts.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs before a notary; marital status certification; form must arrive within 30 days of signing.
How to submit
Mail; overnight mail; email; fax.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Named Individual(s) Trust Trust under Will Estate of the Insured Other Entity ... For Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan and Qualified Plan owned contracts, the plan must be designated as primary beneficiary.” Page 5, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Beneficiary (Select one): Primary Contingent Type (Select one): Named Individual(s) Trust Trust under Will Estate of the Insured Other Entity” Page 6, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

How to name the trust. “Date of birth/Trust (mm/dd/yyyy):” Page 5, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Per stirpes. “Issue per stirpes? Yes No (Default) ... Issue per stirpes is only applicable if the beneficiary is a natural person.” Page 5, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “Issue Per Stirpes. This means that if a Beneficiary dies before the ... Owner, any amount that would have been paid to that Beneficiary, will ... be paid in one sum and in equal shares to the surviving children of ... that Beneficiary, if any, before any other Contingent Beneficiary.” Page 12, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “UTMA/UGMA Custodian (This is not applicable if Issue per stirpes is selected above) ... If no custodian is designated, any money payable to a minor will ... be paid to the court appointed guardian of the estate of the minor.” Page 6, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Named Individual(s) Trust Trust under Will Estate of the Insured Other Entity” Page 6, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If there is no living or existing beneficiary, the proceeds will be paid ... to the owner or the owner's estate.” Page 12, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If Distribution Amounts/Percentages are designated, and a ... beneficiary predeceases the Owner, no longer exists or is no longer ... the surviving beneficiaries in that class as per the ratio designated” Page 12, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Spousal consent. “Spousal consent is required in section H if changing a beneficiary on a qualified contract subject to ERISA to a person other than a spouse ... Spousal Consent & Notary Stamp/Seal (Required for beneficiary changes on all ERISA TSA, Keogh (H.R. 10) & former Qualified Plan” Page 5, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Married and my Plan is subject to ERISA (Signature of spouse and Notary stamp/seal also required). ... A signed and completed form must be received within 30 days of the date signed.” Page 1, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

How to submit. “Phone: Mail: Overnight Mail: Email: ... [email protected] ... Attention: Annuity Hub” Page 11, form FR2057, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-06-21. Source document

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual)

Pension, Insurer

Covers MassMutual Retirement Services group pension annuity (annuitant's beneficiary data).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse must consent if not the primary beneficiary (plan annuity subject to QJSA rules)
How the spouse consents
Separate QJSA waiver form signed before a notary; form obtained by phone.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 secondary lines; use an additional form for more.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Spousal consent. “If you are married and choose to have someone other than your spouse as a primary beneficiary, you must have your spouse consent by signing the Waiver of Qualified Joint and Survivor Annuity form” Page 1, form RS-30632-00, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2020-11-14. Source document

How the spouse consents. “signing the Waiver of Qualified Joint and Survivor Annuity form in the presence of a Notary Public. Please contact MassMutual at 1-800-775-4331 to obtain a waiver form” Page 1, form RS-30632-00, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2020-11-14. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If two or more primary or secondary beneficiaries are designated they may be listed on an additional Annuitant's Beneficiary Data form.” Page 1, form RS-30632-00, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2020-11-14. Source document

MassMutual retirement plans (now administered by Empower)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) (former MassMutual plans, Empower form).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name, trust date and TIN on the form; trustee name not asked.
Trust documents
Requested. Not at designation; additional documentation may be required at death claim for estate or trustee beneficiaries (sponsor service overview)
Per stirpes
Not offered.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Per the plan document's default hierarchy or applicable law.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased beneficiary's share goes to surviving beneficiaries of the same class (no per stirpes)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, spouse must be 100% primary unless notarized consent (profit-sharing exception plan); consent valid 180 days; handwritten only.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, spouse must be 100% primary unless notarized consent (profit-sharing exception plan); consent valid 180 days; handwritten only.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; attach additional sheet for more.
Online designation
Available. Yes, online at empowermyretirement.com (Account, Overview, Beneficiaries); paper form 781610-01 also accepted (overrides earlier "not stated")
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Wet signature required on the paper form (participant, spouse, notary, plan administrator); online designation is separate.
How to submit
Online; upload; mail; express mail (no hand delivery)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Relationship ... My Estate A Trust Other ... Example 2: Trust as Beneficiary ... Trust of Jane Doe XX-XXXXXXX 06/30/2015” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary Name (Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.)” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How to name the trust. “Primary Beneficiary Name (Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.) ... Date of Birth or Trust Date ... Trust of Jane Doe” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Trust documents. “NOTE: Additional documentation may be required certify different types of beneficiaries such as estate or trustee.” Page 2. Source document

Per stirpes. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving primary beneficiaries.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “My Estate ... Example 3: Estate as Beneficiary” Page 5, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If I fail to designate beneficiaries, amounts will be paid pursuant to the terms of the Plan or applicable law. ... If a participant did not designate a beneficiary or all designated beneficiaries predecease the participant, assets may be distributed to claimants according to the plan document's default hierarchy or payout order.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving primary beneficiaries. ... If a contingent beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving contingent beneficiaries.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Spousal consent. “If I am married, my Plan requires my spouse to be named as primary beneficiary for 100% of my account balance, or my spouse must consent to my beneficiary designation. ... The spouse's signature must be notarized by a Notary Public. ... Consent must be obtained no more than 180 days prior to the effective date of the original request in order to be effective.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How the spouse consents. “If I am married, my Plan requires my spouse to be named as primary beneficiary for 100% of my account balance, or my spouse must consent to my beneficiary designation. ... The spouse's signature must be notarized by a Notary Public. ... Consent must be obtained no more than 180 days prior to the effective date of the original request in order to be effective.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “B Beneficiary Designation (Attach an additional sheet to name additional beneficiaries.) ... Participants may designate multiple beneficiaries.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Online designation. “Log in to tell us who should receive them ... sign in, go to Account, click on ... Add a beneficiary to your account today.” Page 1, form RO4576790-0625. Source document

Electronic signature. “A handwritten signature is required on this form. An electronic signature will not be accepted and will result in a significant delay.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How to submit. “Uploaded Electronically: ... Login to account at ... Click on Upload Documents to submit ... Sent Regular Mail to: ... Sent Express Mail to: ... We will not accept hand delivered forms at Express Mail addresses.” Page 3, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Merrill Lynch (Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and Merrill Edge)

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Retirement Selector Account 403(b)(7) (Merrill Edge Beneficiary Designation Form 1217-EDGE).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
No set wording. Trust date only if available; no trustee name.
Trust documents
Not requested. Told not to send.
Per stirpes
Offered. Checkbox per beneficiary.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Descendants take the deceased beneficiary's share.
Per capita
Offered. Checkbox per beneficiary.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "as per will" and "as per trust" invalid.
Custom designation
Accepted. Attached customized designation, reviewed.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, else estate (form; plan document not saved)
If a beneficiary dies first
Pro rata to surviving primaries, then contingents.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Married participant naming anyone other than the spouse.
How the spouse consents
Plan administrator or notary certifies; California consents use a California notary block; employer certifies if consent is unavailable.
Online designation
Available. Online for Merrill Edge accounts.
How to submit
Online; fax; mail.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Retirement Selector Account 403(b)(7) ... You may name one or more individuals and/or entities to be the ... primary or contingent beneficiary(ies) of your account, including ... your estate, trust or other entity.” Page 1. Source document

Trust as contingent. “primary or contingent beneficiary(ies) of your account, including” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

How to name the trust. “tax identification number and the date of inception, if available.” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Trust documents. “Please do not submit copies of your will or trust document. If an” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Per stirpes. “You may choose only ... "per stirpes" or "per capita," but not both, for beneficiaries” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Per stirpes defined. “Per Stirpes is a method of dividing an account where surviving ... descendants of a deceased beneficiary effectively take the” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Per capita. “A Per Capita division of property is an equal division among” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Refused wording. “beneficiary(ies) in a timely manner. Designations that include ... "as per will" or "as per trust" will be considered invalid.” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Custom designation. “considered a "customized beneficiary designation." Please note: ... All customized beneficiary designations must be reviewed for” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Default beneficiary. “I understand that if no designated beneficiary survives me, or if no beneficiary designation is in effect at my death, the account ... balance(s) will be paid to my spouse, or if I am not survived by a spouse, to my estate.” Page 3, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “the payment percentages indicated. If a primary beneficiary ... predeceases you, his/her share will be distributed to the ... remaining primary beneficiary(ies) in proportion to the payment” Page 1, form Code 1217-0424 (Merrill Edge version: BeneficiaryDesignation_1217_EDGE, SHEET-06-22-0505), revision 04/24 (Edge version 07/2022). Source document

Spousal consent. “4: To be Completed ONLY for BASIC and Retirement Selector Accounts ... If you are married, your spouse must sign and date this section if you designate someone other than your spouse as beneficiary.” Page 3. Source document

How the spouse consents. “The plan administrator or a notary public must sign to certify your spouse's signature. ... Spousal Consent to Alternate Beneficiary Designation - State of California ... (Must be completed by notaries licensed in the State of California)” Page 3. Source document

Online designation. “For faster service, this form can be completed electronically ... by signing into your account on merrilledge.com.” Page 1. Source document

How to submit. “Please complete this form and fax to 866.994.7807 or mail to:” Page 1. Source document

Merrill Lynch / Bank of America Retirement Plan Services

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers Merrill-recordkept 401(k) and 403(b) plans.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trusts named by trustee.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Standard wording names the trustees, "or successor in trust", the trust name and the trust agreement date.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. "my estate"
Default beneficiary
Spouse takes 100% unless consent given; with no designation the plan sponsor identifies the beneficiary under applicable law.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse not sole primary.
How the spouse consents
Notary or plan representative; an unmarried certification needs a court order if legally separated or abandoned.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; additional beneficiaries on an attached list.
How to submit
Mail the original form to Merrill, Pennington NJ.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “TRUST WITH INDIVIDUAL TRUSTEES RICHARD DOE AND JOHN SMITH, TRUSTEES, OR A SUCCESSOR IN TRUST UNDER (TRUST NAME) ESTABLISHED (DATE OF TRUST AGREEMENT).” Page 1, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

How to name the trust. “RICHARD DOE AND JOHN SMITH, TRUSTEES, OR A SUCCESSOR IN TRUST UNDER (TRUST NAME) ESTABLISHED (DATE OF TRUST AGREEMENT)” Page 1, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “INSURED'S ESTATE MY ESTATE” Page 1, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If I am married at the time of my death, my spouse will be considered my 100% beneficiary (regardless of any other designation I make) ... If you fail to designate a beneficiary, the Plan Sponsor will identify your beneficiary in accordance with the applicable law.” Page 2, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

Spousal consent. “4. Spousal Consent and Witness (Only complete this section if your spouse is not named as your sole primary beneficiary)” Page 3, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Your spouse's signature must be witnessed by a Notary Public or a Plan Representative. ... Note: A court order must be attached if you are legally separated or legally abandoned” Page 1, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “(You may list additional primary beneficiaries on a separate attachment.) ... ATTACH A SEPARATE LIST IF YOU HAVE ADDITIONAL PRIMARY/CONTINGENT BENEFICIARIES” Page 2, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

How to submit. “After you complete this form, make a copy for your records, then forward the original to: Merrill Retirement & Benefit Plan Services, 1400 American Blvd., Mail-Stop NJ2-140-03-50” Page 1, form 606300ben v20, revision 07/30/20. Source document

MetLife (Metropolitan Life Insurance Company)

Employer plan, Insurer

Covers MetLife annuity purchased through an employer (incl. ERISA and non-ERISA 403(b) annuities).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust may be primary (403(b) form 403B-BENECHANGE 11/24)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be contingent.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Trust documents
Requested. Copy of the trust with the designation.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Whole percentages only.
Default beneficiary
Surviving spouse, then participant's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Without percentages, survivors share equally; any portion not disposed of by the designation goes to the spouse, else the estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. ERISA 403(b), spouse must consent to a non-spouse beneficiary.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs before a notary or plan representative; consent lapses at spouse's age 35 or separation from service; affidavit if spouse cannot be found or legally separated.
How to submit
Mail (PO Box 10356, Des Moines IA); overnight mail; fax; email.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “NOTE: If a Trust is designated as a Primary or Contingent a copy of the trust must be submitted.” Page 3, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

Trust as contingent. “NOTE: If a Trust is designated as a Primary or Contingent a copy of the trust must be submitted.” Page 3, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

Trust documents. “NOTE: If a Trust is designated as a Primary or Contingent a copy of the trust must be submitted.” Page 3, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

Refused wording. “Please use whole percentages ONLY.” Page 3, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If any portion of my death benefit is not disposed of by a designation of beneficiary, for any reason whatsoever, it will be paid to my spouse if my spouse survives me, otherwise to my estate in a lump sum.” Page 1, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Payments to contingent beneficiary(ies) will only be made if no primary beneficiary(ies) survives me. ... If no designated percentage is indicated, benefits will be paid to each surviving beneficiary in equal shares. ... If any portion of my death benefit is not disposed of by a designation of beneficiary, for any reason whatsoever, it will be paid to my spouse” Page 1, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

Spousal consent. “If your 403(b) plan is subject to ERISA please complete the appropriate section below. ... If you are married and designate a beneficiary(ies) other than your spouse for your death benefit, such designation will not be effective unless your spouse indicates agreement with the designation by signing the Spousal Consent below.” Page 3, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Notarization of Spouse's Signature ... Plan Representative Witness ... if my spouse is currently under 35 years of age, this beneficiary designation becomes ineffective on (a) the first day of the plan year in which he/she reaches age 35 ... this form must be accompanied by an affidavit completed by the participant and approved by the Plan Administrator” Page 4, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

How to submit. “SECTION 4: How to submit Mail this form to: Overnight mail only: Fax to: Email: ... [email protected]” Page 5, form 403B-BENECHANGE, revision 2024-11, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-05-28. Source document

MissionSquare Retirement (formerly ICMA-RC)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 457(b), 401(a), 401(k) and 403(b) plans.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust relationship box.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust relationship box on contingent lines.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Trust documents
Requested. Entire trust document, tied to RMD designated-beneficiary treatment.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. One type and one relationship per beneficiary or the designation may be invalid.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property states (50%); ERISA-type plans (100%)
How the spouse consents
Notary for 457(b); notary or plan representative for 401/403(b)
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 5 lines; attached sheet allowed.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Non-Spouse Trust* SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER” Page 3, form Account Change Form - Beneficiary Designation. Source document

Trust as contingent. “BENEFICIARY TYPE: Primary Contingent RELATIONSHIP: CHECK ONE Spouse Non-Spouse Trust* Charity” Page 3, form Account Change Form - Beneficiary Designation. Source document

Trust documents. “You must submit a copy of your entire trust document if you desire the beneficiaries of the trust to be treated as designated beneficiaries for the purpose of determining Required Minimum Distributions.” Page 3, form Account Change Form - Beneficiary Designation. Source document

Refused wording. “Failure to do so may result in your designation being invalid.” Page 3, form Account Change Form - Beneficiary Designation. Source document

Spousal consent. “A participant living in a community ... the primary beneficiary for at least 50% of the account, unless the spouse waives his/her right by consenting to an alternative beneficiary designation” Page 4, form Account Change Form - Beneficiary Designation. Source document

How the spouse consents. “For 457(b) deferred compensation plans, a Notary Public is required to witness the spouse signature for the above spousal consent to be valid in a ... For 401 defined contribution plans and 403(b) retirement plans, the above spousal consent must be witnessed by either an authorized employer plan representative or a Notary Public.” Page 4, form Account Change Form - Beneficiary Designation. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Additional beneficiary information on attached sheet” Page 3, form Account Change Form - Beneficiary Designation. Source document

Mutual of America Life Insurance Company

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers Mutual of America group retirement plans (401(k), TDA/403(b), 457, DC pension).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Separate Form 6475 for trusts.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust as secondary, with an optional tertiary.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date (or will date for a testamentary trust) and trustee name required.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate relationship box.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, children, parents, siblings, then estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Share goes to surviving primaries, then secondaries; a trust designation is void if the trust cannot be paid within one year of notice of death.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. ERISA plans, spouse sole beneficiary unless waiver.
How the spouse consents
Notary or plan representative, after the designation; new waiver for every change; pre-35 waivers terminate at 35.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 lines; attached pages allowed.
Online designation
Paper only. Trust designations only on paper Form 6475; other online options not stated.
How to submit
Mail to the local service representative or regional office.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “DESIGNATION OF TRUST AS BENEFICIARY ... You may only designate a trust as your beneficiary contingent on our ability to begin to pay the trust within one year” Page 1, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Secondary beneficiary (designate a primary beneficiary; you may also designate a tertiary beneficiary to be paid if the Trust cannot be paid).” Page 2, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

How to name the trust. “My (Testamentary) Trust. Created under my Will dated ... The Living Trust of ... Print here the FULL NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE TRUSTEE OR SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE” Page 2, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Relationship: Spouse Child Parent Estate Other” Page 2, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If there is no living designated beneficiary at your death, the amount payable will be paid to the first surviving class of the following: (a) your surviving spouse (as determined under state law), (b) your surviving children in equal shares, (c) your surviving parents in equal shares, (d) your surviving brothers and sisters in equal shares, or (e) the executors or administrators of your estate.” Page 2, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “the death benefit will be paid in equal shares to the primary beneficiaries who survive you, or if none, to the secondary beneficiaries who survive you ... If the trust you designate cannot begin to receive payments within one year of the date that we receive notice of your death, you are authorizing us to treat your designation of the trust as void.” Page 1, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

Spousal consent. “If your plan description indicates that your plan is subject to the spousal consent rules of ERISA and you are married, you must name your Eligible Spouse (as defined in the Plan and federal law) as your only beneficiary unless your Eligible Spouse signs the Spouse's Waiver of Death Benefits below” Page 1, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

How the spouse consents. “in the presence of a Plan (employer) representative or a notary public after you designate the beneficiaries you wish below. Whenever you want to change your beneficiaries, your Eligible Spouse must sign a new waiver unless you name your Eligible Spouse as your only beneficiary. If you are younger than 35 when you name alternative beneficiaries” Page 1, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you wish to designate more beneficiaries, attach a page providing all information for each” Page 2, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

Online designation. “If you are designating a Trust, you must use Mutual of America ... To Employer using Hotline Plus: Do NOT process designations on this form through Hotline Plus.” Page 1, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

How to submit. “Send this form to your local service representative. ... Send the completed, signed form to Mutual of America at the following” Page 1, form 6475.M, revision 2012-01. Source document

Mutual of America Life Insurance Company

Pension, Plan recordkeeper

Covers Mutual of America defined benefit pension plans.

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse must be primary; no waiver possible (older scanned form)
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Spousal consent. “Married Defined Benefit Plan Participants must designate their spouse as primary beneficiary. The spouse of a Defined Benefit Plan participant cannot waive their right to be named as primary beneficiary. ... The Spouse's Waiver is invalid for Defined Benefit Plan participants.” Page 2, form 6475, revision not printed (older scanned copy). Source document

Nationwide Retirement Plans

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan); Public-sector 457(b), 401(a), 401(k) and 403(b) plans administered by Nationwide Retirement Solutions (form DC-770).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes; lines take an individual or organization name (PNF-0437AO)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust instruction applies to any beneficiary; contingent lines also take an individual or organization name (PNF-0437AO)
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. "(trustee), as Trustee under Trust Agreement with (grantor) dated (date)"
Trust documents
Requested. First and last pages of the trust document, with the form.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary must be named; "my children" refused.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Generic class designations and "as designated in my will" refused.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Contingents take if primaries predecease or the designation is revoked by law or the plan document; lapse among co-primaries not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, required if spouse gets less than 100%; witnessed by plan sponsor or notary.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, required if spouse gets less than 100%; witnessed by plan sponsor or notary.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; attach a page for more.
How to submit
Mail; fax; email (PNF-0758AO); generic PNF-0437AO is returned to the employer's HR representative.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you are naming a Trust as beneficiary, you must submit the first and last pages of the Trust Document with this form.” Page 1, revision 2019-05, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

Trust as contingent. “If you are naming a Trust as beneficiary, you must submit the first and last pages of the Trust Document with this form. ... 4. Contingent Beneficiary Information” Page 1, revision 2019-05, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

How to name the trust. “First National Bank of Canton, Ohio, as Trustee under Trust Agreement with Robert E. Nation dated January 1, 2002.” Page 2, form DC-770, revision 2022-02, Public-sector 457(b), 401(a), 401(k) and 403(b) plans administered by Nationwide Retirement Solutions (form DC-770). Source document

Trust documents. “If you are naming a Trust as beneficiary, you must submit the first and last pages of the Trust Document with this form.” Page 1, revision 2019-05, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

A class like "my children". “Generic beneficiary designations will not be accepted. Examples of generic designations include: ... My children.” Page 2, form DC-770, revision 2022-02, Public-sector 457(b), 401(a), 401(k) and 403(b) plans administered by Nationwide Retirement Solutions (form DC-770). Source document

Refused wording. “Generic beneficiary designations will not be accepted. Examples of generic designations include: ... My children. ... Children of this marriage or any past marriage. ... As designated in my will.” Page 2, form DC-770, revision 2022-02, Public-sector 457(b), 401(a), 401(k) and 403(b) plans administered by Nationwide Retirement Solutions (form DC-770). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Primary: My Estate” Page 2, form DC-770, revision 2022-02, Public-sector 457(b), 401(a), 401(k) and 403(b) plans administered by Nationwide Retirement Solutions (form DC-770). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “In the event that your primary beneficiaries predecease you, or is otherwise revoked by law or the plan document, your vested account balance will be divided among your contingent beneficiaries in the percentages specified below.” Page 1, revision 2019-05, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

Spousal consent. “Spousal Consent (required if you're married and designate less than 100% to your spouse) If married, your spouse must sign, acknowledging the Disclosure Statement below. Additionally, your spouse's signature must be witnessed by the Plan Sponsor or a Notary.” Page 1, form PNF-0758AO.1, revision 2022-11, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

How the spouse consents. “Spousal Consent (required if you're married and designate less than 100% to your spouse) If married, your spouse must sign, acknowledging the Disclosure Statement below. Additionally, your spouse's signature must be witnessed by the Plan Sponsor or a Notary.” Page 1, form PNF-0758AO.1, revision 2022-11, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you want to designate more than 2 of each type of beneficiary, you may attach a page with the additional beneficiary information.” Page 1, form PNF-0758AO.1, revision 2022-11, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

How to submit. “By Mail: Nationwide Retirement Plans ... By Fax: 877-677-4329 ... By Email: [email protected] ... Return form to: YOUR HUMAN RESOURCES REPRESENTATIVE” Page 2, form PNF-0758AO.1, revision 2022-11, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, Sea Island 401k Savings Plan). Source document

New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers NYSLRS retirement payment option beneficiary (plan booklet pages for PFRS Tier 3 Article 14 and the ERS Sheriffs special plan).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Joint allowance, payments end at the retiree's death; pop-up, benefit rises to the Single Life Allowance.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. Joint allowance and pop-up options, one beneficiary, unchangeable after retirement; five or ten year certain beneficiary may be changed.
Online designation
Available. Retirement Online with the service retirement application.
How to submit
Online; mail.
In the institution’s own words

If a beneficiary dies first. “If your beneficiary dies before you, all benefit payments will stop at your death. ... If your beneficiary dies first, your benefit will be increased to the amount you would have received if you had selected the Single Life Allowance” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-04-11. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You can designate only one beneficiary and you cannot change your designation after your retirement.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-04-11. Source document

Online designation. “You can select your payment option when you use Retirement Online to apply for a service (not disability) retirement.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-10. Source document

How to submit. “You can select your payment option when you use Retirement Online to apply for a service (not disability) retirement. You can also print an option election form from our Forms page and submit it by mail.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-10. Source document

New York State Teachers' Retirement System (NYSTRS)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4); NYSTRS retiree lump sum option beneficiary (RMS-5); NYSTRS retiree guarantee option beneficiary (RMS-5.3); NYSTRS survivor and pop-up survivor options (joint and survivor beneficiary fixed at retirement).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trustee of an inter vivos or testamentary trust may be named; each line checked primary or contingent.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be primary or contingent.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trustee name and address, trust date, "Trustee of [Name of Trust]"
Trust documents
Requested. At designation, complete trust copy, attorney-drafted certification or NYSTRS LEG-1; at death, System forms and an affidavit of trustee.
Per stirpes
Not offered. Per stirpes refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary named individually by full legal name; unborn children barred.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Stipulations such as per stirpes, attachments, numbering beneficiaries, unborn children refused; whole-number percentages only.
Custom designation
Not accepted. No attachments or stipulations.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian, one designation per minor; paid to the minor directly at majority.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. "My Estate"; no contingent if estate is primary.
Default beneficiary
Member's estate; invalid designation also defaults to estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased primary's share to surviving primaries equally; contingents only if all primaries predecease; then estate.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Revokes (former spouse treated as predeceased) unless the decree or a DRO provides otherwise; NYSTRS must receive written notice by registered or certified mail before payment; file a new NET-11.4 to keep the former spouse.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Any number; 4 lines per form, extra forms marked "form 1 of 2", each signed and notarized, submitted together (NET-2 allows 3, more requires NET-11.4)
Online designation
Available. MyNYSTRS online or notarized NET-11.4; members with a DRO on file cannot use MyNYSTRS.
Notary or medallion
Required. Notarized signature required.
How to submit
Online (MyNYSTRS); mail (registered or certified mail counts as filed on the mailing date)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you designate the Trustee of an Inter Vivos Trust ... Name a trust as a beneficiary of an in-service or post-retirement (Paragraph 2) death benefit.” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Trust as contingent. “If you designate the Trustee of an Inter Vivos Trust ... Provide complete information requested for each beneficiary, including whether they are primary or contingent.” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

How to name the trust. “Name and address of current Trustee (this may be the member) ... Date of Birth - Date of original Trust ... Relationship - "Trustee of” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Trust documents. “You will need to provide the System with a certification of trust or copy of the trust. ... The certification of trust drafted by your attorney is acceptable for NYSTRS beneficiary designations. ... Your trustee will need to provide the required System forms, as well as an affidavit of trustee.” Web page, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-09. Source document

Per stirpes. “Stipulations (e.g. "per stirpes") or attachments to your designation are not acceptable.” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

A class like "my children". “List each beneficiary separately by their full legal name. ... If you want to add a beneficiary, for example a new child, you must file a new form that includes all beneficiaries” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Refused wording. “Stipulations (e.g. "per stirpes") or attachments to your designation are not acceptable. ... Do not number your beneficiaries. Numbering of beneficiaries will result in an invalid designation. ... Unborn children may not be named.” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Custom designation. “Stipulations (e.g. "per stirpes") or attachments to your designation are not acceptable.” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If you designate a Custodian for a minor under the Uniform Transfer to Minors Act (UTMA) ... When the minor reaches the age of majority, the custodial designation will lapse and the benefit will be paid to the minor directly.” Web page, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-09. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Use the words "My Estate" on the beneficiary name line. No other information is needed. ... If your estate is named as primary beneficiary, do not name a contingent beneficiary.” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Default beneficiary. “Should I survive all named beneficiaries, any death benefit payable shall be paid to my estate. ... If your beneficiary designation is deemed invalid, we will update your beneficiary as your estate until a valid designation is filed.” Page 5, form NET-2, revision 2025-12, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If more than one primary beneficiary is named, the share of any beneficiary who dies before me shall be divided equally among the surviving primary beneficiaries. ... The System will make payment to a contingent beneficiary(ies) only if all primary beneficiaries die before you do.” Page 1, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Effect of divorce. “Chapter 173, however, now generally provides that a divorce, annulment or judicial separation revokes a member's prior designation of a former spouse as beneficiary of certain death benefits and retirement options ... In order for Chapter 173 to apply, the System must receive written notice of the divorce, annulment or judicial separation before it issues payment” Page 5, form NET-11, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-05-14. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Any number of primary and contingent beneficiaries may be named, but you must designate at least one primary beneficiary. ... If you desire more beneficiaries than can fit on one form, you must use an additional designation form” Page 3, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

Online designation. “You may change your beneficiary designation(s) prior to retirement by using the Beneficiaries tab under My Retirement in your secure MyNYSTRS account or by filing a notarized paper form” Page 36, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-04-18. Source document

Notary or medallion. “This form must be signed and acknowledged before a notary public in order to be valid” Page 2, form NET-11, revision 2026-04, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4). Source document

How to submit. “Submit a new beneficiary designation online through MyNYSTRS or send the notarized paper form ... Forms mailed to NYSTRS will be considered filed on the day they are mailed if they are mailed by registered or certified mail” Page 34, NYSTRS in-service or post-retirement Paragraph 2 death benefit beneficiary (NET-11.4, NET-2 Part 4), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-04-18. Source document

North Carolina Retirement Systems (TSERS, LGERS)

Employer plan, Public pension system

Covers NC 401(k) and NC 457 Supplemental Retirement Plans (Empower recordkeeper; Board policy).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Participant's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Equal shares to surviving primaries (contingents likewise); a beneficiary who survives but dies before filing a claim is paid through his or her estate.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Online designation
Available. Online or by telephone through the recordkeeper.
Notary or medallion
Required. Paper forms only; online and telephone designations need no notary.
How to submit
Online; telephone; paper form to the recordkeeper.
How to disclaim
Described. Waiver allowed for any beneficiary except an estate; no form or deadline stated.
In the institution’s own words

Default beneficiary. “The estate of the participant shall be the beneficiary if, at the time of the participant's death, the participant has not designated a living beneficiary with the recordkeeper.” Page 2, revision 2024-08-22, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-04. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary pre-deceases the participant, then the beneficiary's share of the participant's benefit will be paid in equal shares to any remaining primary beneficiaries. ... If a contingent beneficiary pre-deceases the participant, then the beneficiary's share of” Page 1, revision 2024-08-22, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-04. Source document

Online designation. “a participant must use the process and complete the form (which may be online or by telephone) that are provided by the Department or the recordkeeper” Page 1, revision 2024-08-22, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-04. Source document

Notary or medallion. “Paper forms must be notarized and must be received by the recordkeeper within 90 days of the participant's signature.” Page 1, revision 2024-08-22, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-04. Source document

How to submit. “complete the form (which may be online or by telephone) that are provided by the Department or the recordkeeper. Paper forms must be notarized and must be received by the recordkeeper” Page 1, revision 2024-08-22, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-04. Source document

How to disclaim. “A beneficiary other than an estate may waive the right to receive a benefit payable under a plan.” Page 2, revision 2024-08-22, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-04. Source document

North Carolina Retirement Systems (TSERS, LGERS)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund); Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund (Form 2FR, return of contributions and line-of-duty Survivorship Benefit).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. A living trust may be the return-of-contributions beneficiary (then no monthly Survivor's Alternate Benefit); TSERS Employer Manual 2019.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary named individually.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Refused, unborn child, pet, church, institution; no percentage allocations (equal shares only)
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Paid to qualified guardian, the county Clerk of Courts, or the minor at 18.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate may be the return-of-contributions beneficiary (no Survivor's Alternate Benefit then)
Default beneficiary
Contributory Death Benefit, spouse, else legal representative; death after retirement date without Form 6E, executor picks the option and beneficiary.
If a beneficiary dies first
To surviving co-beneficiaries; contingents only if all principals are deceased.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
The statute lets a retiree revoke a spouse survivor nomination (Options 2, 3, 5 or 6) after divorce and elect a new option; no automatic revocation is stated; return-of-contributions beneficiaries not addressed.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. One monthly survivor beneficiary under Options 2, 3, 6-2, 6-3; Guaranteed Refund, one or more, not the survivor beneficiary.
Online designation
Available. ORBIT online account (active members); survivor option beneficiary is fixed on Form 6E at retirement.
Notary or medallion
Required. Form 6ER (new spouse as survivorship beneficiary) must be notarized; online ORBIT designations need none.
How to submit
Online (ORBIT) for active members; mail for Form 6ER survivor redesignation.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “The Survivor's Alternate Benefit does not apply if he member has two or more eligible principal beneficiaries for the return of contributions living at the time of their death, if their estate or living trust is their eligible beneficiary at the time of their death” Page 47, form 430, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

A class like "my children". “You must supply the name, Social Security number and date of birth for each beneficiary listed.” Page 3, Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund (Form 2FR, return of contributions and line-of-duty Survivorship Benefit). Source document

Refused wording. “Your beneficiary(ies) cannot be an unborn child, a pet, a church, or institution. ... you may not assign percentages of the Return of Contributions to any individual; the benefit will be divided equally among multiple beneficiaries.” Page 3, Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund (Form 2FR, return of contributions and line-of-duty Survivorship Benefit). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a beneficiary is a minor, payment will be made to the qualified guardian of the minor, the Clerk of Courts in the county where the minor lives, or the minor after he/she reaches the age of majority.” Page 3, Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund (Form 2FR, return of contributions and line-of-duty Survivorship Benefit). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “if their estate or living trust is their eligible beneficiary at the time of their death” Page 47, form 430, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no beneficiary has been designated, the benefit will be paid to the member's spouse, or legal representative if the member is not survived by a spouse. ... if you have designated more than one beneficiary or no beneficiary for your return of contributions, the administrator or executor of your estate may select the option and name the beneficiary(ies).” Page 48, form 430, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If you chose multiple co-beneficiaries and one is deceased at the time of your death, the benefit will be paid to the surviving co-beneficiary(ies).” Page 3, Firefighters' and Rescue Squad Workers' Pension Fund (Form 2FR, return of contributions and line-of-duty Survivorship Benefit). Source document

Effect of divorce. “nominated his or her spouse to receive a retirement allowance upon the member's death may, after divorce from his or her spouse, revoke the nomination” Page 124, form 143B, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Under Options 2 and 3, the member may name only one beneficiary to receive a monthly benefit payment. ... The member may name one or more beneficiaries for the Guaranteed Refund” Page 38, form 430, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

Online designation. “An active TSERS member may designate beneficiaries online for the employee death benefit (if applicable), or for a return of contributions in the event of the member's death.” Page 18, form 430, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

Notary or medallion. “Please authorize with your signature in front of a Notary. ... Improperly notarized forms will not be accepted.” Page 2, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

How to submit. “To add or change a beneficiary online: ... Please submit the completed form by mail.” Page 18, form 430, TSERS / LGERS defined benefit (return of contributions, active death benefit, survivor options, Guaranteed Refund). Source document

Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS)

Employer plan, Public pension system

Covers OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation); OPERS Additional Annuity account (voluntary contributions; form A-3AA); OPERS Member-Directed Plan retiree's guaranteed account remaining balance (form GA-3MD).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust may be primary; a trust receives a lump-sum refund unless qualified children are eligible for monthly benefits.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be contingent.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and creation date; no trustee name asked.
Trust documents
Requested. Copy of the trust agreement with the designation.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate by specific designation; estate is also last in Automatic Succession.
Default beneficiary
Automatic succession absent a valid specific designation; vested balance refunded to the member's beneficiaries.
If a beneficiary dies first
Lump sum of vested balance; equal shares unless percentages; contingents only if all primaries predecease.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Revokes, divorce (also marriage, legal separation, birth or adoption, refund) voids the whole specific designation; automatic succession then applies.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; extra signed and witnessed pages allowed.
Online designation
Available. Online or paper A-3U.
How to submit
Online; mail.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you wish to designate a person, persons, trust, estate, or an institution as your beneficiary, you must complete Step 4 ... If you designate a trust, estate, institution or multiple” Page 1, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary, Estate, Trust or Institution Name” Page 3, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

How to name the trust. “Primary Beneficiary, Estate, Trust or Institution Name ... Birth Date or Trust Creation Date” Page 3, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Trust documents. “If you choose to designate a trust as a beneficiary, please include a copy of the trust agreement.” Page 2, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “If you wish to designate a person, persons, trust, estate, or an institution as your beneficiary” Page 1, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If, after one of these events occurs, a new designation is not submitted to us, the beneficiary will be determined by automatic succession.” Page 4, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-23. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “You may designate multiple (joint) beneficiaries to share a refund of the vested portion of your individual account. Joint beneficiaries will share equally unless you designate specific percentages. ... Contingent beneficiary(ies) - applies only in the event of death of ALL primary beneficiary(ies).” Page 2, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Effect of divorce. “any of the following life events makes the specific designation invalid: marriage, divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, the birth or adoption of a child, or refunding your OPERS account(s). ... If, after one of these events occurs, a new designation is not submitted to us, the beneficiary will be determined by automatic succession.” Page 1, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you wish to list additional beneficiaries, use a separate piece of paper. Include all of the information requested for each beneficiary. Any additional pages must be signed by you and witnessed by the two adult witnesses” Page 2, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Online designation. “You can designate a beneficiary online through OPERS Online Account Access.” Web page, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

How to submit. “You can designate a beneficiary online through OPERS Online Account Access. ... downloading and completing the Designation of Beneficiary form and mailing it to OPERS” Page 4, revision 2022-10, OPERS Member-Directed Plan (defined contribution; universal A-3U designation), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement); OPERS retiree / benefit recipient lump sum death benefit (form DBO-3T); OPERS Single Life Plan retiree's guaranteed account remaining balance (form GA-3); OPERS Combined Plan retiree's guaranteed account remaining balance, defined benefit and defined contribution portions (form GA-3CO); OPERS joint life / multiple life plan of payment (money purchase annuity pop down MP-1PD; additional annuity pop up after divorce AAA-1PUF).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust may be primary; a trust receives a lump-sum refund unless qualified children are eligible for monthly benefits.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be contingent.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and creation date; no trustee name asked.
Trust documents
Requested. Copy of the trust agreement with the designation.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate by specific designation; estate is also last in Automatic Succession.
Default beneficiary
Automatic succession (spouse, children, dependent parents, parents, estate) absent a valid specific designation (Survivor Benefits booklet)
If a beneficiary dies first
Contingents take only if all primaries predecease; a predeceased primary's share not otherwise addressed.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse consents to the Joint Life Plan selection on MP-1PD.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs a sworn consent before a notary.
Effect of divorce
Revokes, divorce (also marriage, legal separation, birth or adoption, refund) voids the whole specific designation; automatic succession then applies.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; extra signed and witnessed pages allowed.
Online designation
Available. Online or paper A-3U.
Notary or medallion
Required. Contributor's own signature notarized on MP-1PD and AAA-1PUF.
How to submit
Online; mail.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you wish to designate a person, persons, trust, estate, or an institution as your beneficiary, you must complete Step 4 ... If you designate a trust, estate, institution or multiple” Page 1, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary, Estate, Trust or Institution Name” Page 3, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

How to name the trust. “Primary Beneficiary, Estate, Trust or Institution Name ... Birth Date or Trust Creation Date” Page 3, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Trust documents. “If you choose to designate a trust as a beneficiary, please include a copy of the trust agreement.” Page 2, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “If you wish to designate a person, persons, trust, estate, or an institution as your beneficiary” Page 1, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If, after one of these events occurs, a new designation is not submitted to us, the beneficiary will be determined by automatic succession. ... If you later become a member, automatic succession will apply unless you file a specific designation.” Page 4, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-02-23. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Contingent beneficiary(ies) - applies only in the event of death of ALL primary beneficiary(ies). ... Joint beneficiaries will share equal amounts of any eligible lump sum payment due unless you designate specific percentages.” Page 2, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Spousal consent. “I have read the plans of payment and consent to the payment plan selection.” Page 2, revision 2013-08, OPERS joint life / multiple life plan of payment (money purchase annuity pop down MP-1PD; additional annuity pop up after divorce AAA-1PUF), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

How the spouse consents. “This step must be completed by your spouse and signed in the presence of a Notary Public.” Page 2, revision 2013-08, OPERS joint life / multiple life plan of payment (money purchase annuity pop down MP-1PD; additional annuity pop up after divorce AAA-1PUF), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Effect of divorce. “any of the following life events makes the specific designation invalid: marriage, divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, the birth or adoption of a child, or refunding your OPERS account(s). ... If, after one of these events occurs, a new designation is not submitted to us, the beneficiary will be determined by automatic succession.” Page 1, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you wish to list additional beneficiaries, use a separate piece of paper. Include all of the information requested for each beneficiary. Any additional pages must be signed by you and witnessed by the two adult witnesses” Page 2, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Online designation. “You can designate a beneficiary online through OPERS Online Account Access.” Web page, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Notary or medallion. “This step must be completed and signed in the presence of a Notary Public. ... Your signature is required and must be witnessed by a notary.” Page 1, revision 2013-08, OPERS joint life / multiple life plan of payment (money purchase annuity pop down MP-1PD; additional annuity pop up after divorce AAA-1PUF), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

How to submit. “You can designate a beneficiary online through OPERS Online Account Access. ... downloading and completing the Designation of Beneficiary form and mailing it to OPERS” Page 4, revision 2022-10, OPERS Traditional Pension and Combined Plans (Designation of Beneficiary A-3U, pre-retirement), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2026-08-20. Source document

Paychex Retirement Services

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) employer plan (Paychex prototype plan).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Not on form ("person(s)"); plan document and death-claim form allow trusts.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes under plan document; paid to guardian or UTMA/UGMA custodian.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, else estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, married participant's sole primary is spouse unless notarized "Spousal Waiver"
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, married participant's sole primary is spouse unless notarized "Spousal Waiver"
How to submit
Delivered to the employer (plan administrator), which keeps it; not sent to Paychex.
How to disclaim
Described. Written notice to the plan administrator under IRC 2518(b)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Accordingly, the following individuals or revocable trusts are beneficiaries of the participant's retirement plan benefits. Beneficiary Name (or Trust Name) Beneficiary SSN (or Trust EIN)” Page 1, form RS0084, revision 2023-08. Source document

Per stirpes. “The benefit will be paid to my Primary Beneficiaries if living. In the event that my Primary Beneficiaries are not living, benefits will be paid to my Secondary Beneficiary.” Page 1, form RS0016, revision 2011-08. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If the Beneficiary is a minor, distribution will be deemed to have been made to such Beneficiary if the portion of the Participant's Individual Account to which the Beneficiary is entitled is paid to their legal guardian or, if applicable, to their custodian under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act or the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act.” Page 60, revision 2018-07. Source document

Default beneficiary. “such deceased Participant's Individual Account will be payable to any surviving Beneficiary designated by the Participant, or, if no Beneficiary survives the Participant, to the Participant's Spouse, or, where no Spouse exists, to the Participant's estate.” Page 60, revision 2018-07. Source document

Spousal consent. “I understand that if I am married I may only have one Primary Beneficiary which is my spouse. However, I understand I may select a Primary Beneficiary other than my spouse if my spouse signs the section below entitled "Spousal Waiver." ... The signature of the spouse must be witnessed by a notary public.” Page 1, form RS0016, revision 2011-08. Source document

How the spouse consents. “I understand that if I am married I may only have one Primary Beneficiary which is my spouse. However, I understand I may select a Primary Beneficiary other than my spouse if my spouse signs the section below entitled "Spousal Waiver." ... The signature of the spouse must be witnessed by a notary public.” Page 1, form RS0016, revision 2011-08. Source document

How to submit. “will be effective only upon delivery to the Plan Administrator ... Note: Return this completed form to your employer. Employers should keep all beneficiary forms on file.” Page 1, form RS0016, revision 2011-08. Source document

How to disclaim. “A Beneficiary may disclaim their portion of a Participant's Individual Account by providing the Plan Administrator written notification pursuant to Code section 2518(b).” Page 60, revision 2018-07. Source document

Principal Financial Group

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k)/403(b) employer plan.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes, by attached signed list.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Prescribed wording, trustee or successor in trust, trust name, date of trust agreement.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No checkbox; sample custom wording passes a deceased child's share to that child's children.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Sample wording names the children individually and gives a predeceased child's share to "the surviving children of any such child" as a class (attached list)
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Accepted. Yes, signed and dated attached list, with sample custom wording.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes with UTMA custodian wording on attached list.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
To the survivors equally unless otherwise provided; 2024 edition adds that a beneficiary dying after the participant but before allocation is handled per the plan document.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, QPSA consent witnessed by plan representative or notary if spouse not sole primary; age 35 re-consent; single participant's designation void one year after marriage.
How the spouse consents
Plan representative or notary witness; age 35 re-consent (QPSA edition); spouse-cannot-be-located certification witnessed by the plan representative; optional box limits consent to the named beneficiary.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; attach a signed and dated list for more.
Online designation
Available.
How to submit
Online; fax; mail; the 2009 edition is returned to the plan sponsor.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you need more space to name beneficiaries or name a Trust, Testamentary Trust, or minor children (custodian for minors), please attach a separate list that you have signed and dated.” Page 2, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

How to name the trust. “Trustee or successor in trust under (trust name) ... established (date of trust agreement)” Page 3, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Per stirpes. “If any of my children predecease me, the surviving children of any such child shall receive in the share their parent would have received, if living. If no child of a deceased child survives, the share of that child of mine shall go to the survivor or survivors of my children, equally.” Page 3, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

A class like "my children". “If any of my children predecease me, the surviving children of any such child shall receive in the share their parent would” Page 3, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Custom designation. “please attach a separate list that you have signed and dated. The following examples may be helpful to you.” Page 3, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “However, if any proceeds become payable to the beneficiary who is a minor as defined by the Iowa Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA), such proceeds shall be paid to Frank Doe as custodian for John Doe under the Iowa UTMA” Page 3, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Estate My Estate” Page 3, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Unless otherwise provided, if two or more beneficiaries are named, the proceeds shall be paid to the named beneficiaries, or to the survivor or survivors, in equal shares. ... Unless otherwise indicated below, if one of your beneficiaries predeceases you, their portion will be split equally to the remaining beneficiaries. If a beneficiary dies shortly after you, but before allocation of the death benefit, their portion will be allocated based on the plan document.” Page 2, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married and do not name your spouse as the sole primary beneficiary, your spouse must sign the consent below. The signature must be witnessed by a plan representative or notary public. If you are younger than age 35, your spouse must again consent to this in writing at the start of the plan year in which you reach age 35 ... I understand if I marry, this designation is void one year after my marriage (some plans specify a shorter period).” Page 1, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

How the spouse consents. “The signature must be witnessed by a plan representative or notary public. If you are younger than age 35, your spouse must again consent to this in writing at the start of the plan year in which you reach age 35 ... If your spouse cannot be located, check this box and have it witnessed by the plan representative. It must be established to the satisfaction of the plan representative that your spouse cannot be located.” Page 1, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You may name one or more primary and/or contingent beneficiaries. If you need more space to name beneficiaries or name a Trust, Testamentary Trust, or minor children (custodian for minors), please attach a separate list that you have signed and dated.” Page 2, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Online designation. “You may designate your beneficiary either online at principal.com or by completing the below form.” Page 1, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

How to submit. “You may designate your beneficiary either online at principal.com or by completing the below form. ... Return the beneficiary form to Principal Financial Group by fax ... Return the original to your plan sponsor.” Page 1, form CTD01304, revision 07.18.2017. Source document

Provident Trust Group

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Individual (solo) 401(k).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Consent where applicable, on the main plan designation form (not saved)
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 6 lines per addendum; additional addendums allowed.
How to submit
Mail; email; fax.
In the institution’s own words

Spousal consent. “any applicable spousal consent is provided on the attached form” Page 2, revision 2022-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-06-30. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “to name more beneficiaries than can be accommodated on these forms. Complete additional addendums if necessary.” Page 1, revision 2022-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-06-30. Source document

How to submit. “When ready, mail, email, or fax this completed form” Page 2, revision 2022-12, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-06-30. Source document

Prudential Retirement (legacy; now Empower)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) (former Prudential plans, Empower form).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name, trust date and TIN on the form; trustee name not asked.
Trust documents
Requested. Not at designation; additional documentation may be required at death claim for estate or trustee beneficiaries (sponsor service overview)
Per stirpes
Not offered.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Per the plan document's default hierarchy or applicable law.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased beneficiary's share goes to surviving beneficiaries of the same class (no per stirpes)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, spouse must be 100% primary unless notarized consent (profit-sharing exception plan); consent valid 180 days; handwritten only.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, spouse must be 100% primary unless notarized consent (profit-sharing exception plan); consent valid 180 days; handwritten only.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; attach additional sheet for more.
Online designation
Available. Yes, online at empowermyretirement.com (Account, Overview, Beneficiaries); paper form 781610-01 also accepted (overrides earlier "not stated")
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Wet signature required on the paper form (participant, spouse, notary, plan administrator); online designation is separate.
How to submit
Online; upload; mail; express mail (no hand delivery)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Relationship ... My Estate A Trust Other ... Example 2: Trust as Beneficiary ... Trust of Jane Doe XX-XXXXXXX 06/30/2015” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary Name (Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.)” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How to name the trust. “Primary Beneficiary Name (Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.) ... Date of Birth or Trust Date ... Trust of Jane Doe” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Trust documents. “NOTE: Additional documentation may be required certify different types of beneficiaries such as estate or trustee.” Page 2. Source document

Per stirpes. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving primary beneficiaries.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “My Estate ... Example 3: Estate as Beneficiary” Page 5, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If I fail to designate beneficiaries, amounts will be paid pursuant to the terms of the Plan or applicable law. ... If a participant did not designate a beneficiary or all designated beneficiaries predecease the participant, assets may be distributed to claimants according to the plan document's default hierarchy or payout order.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving primary beneficiaries. ... If a contingent beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving contingent beneficiaries.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Spousal consent. “If I am married, my Plan requires my spouse to be named as primary beneficiary for 100% of my account balance, or my spouse must consent to my beneficiary designation. ... The spouse's signature must be notarized by a Notary Public. ... Consent must be obtained no more than 180 days prior to the effective date of the original request in order to be effective.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How the spouse consents. “If I am married, my Plan requires my spouse to be named as primary beneficiary for 100% of my account balance, or my spouse must consent to my beneficiary designation. ... The spouse's signature must be notarized by a Notary Public. ... Consent must be obtained no more than 180 days prior to the effective date of the original request in order to be effective.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “B Beneficiary Designation (Attach an additional sheet to name additional beneficiaries.) ... Participants may designate multiple beneficiaries.” Page 1, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

Online designation. “Log in to tell us who should receive them ... sign in, go to Account, click on ... Add a beneficiary to your account today.” Page 1, form RO4576790-0625. Source document

Electronic signature. “A handwritten signature is required on this form. An electronic signature will not be accepted and will result in a significant delay.” Page 2, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

How to submit. “Uploaded Electronically: ... Login to account at ... Click on Upload Documents to submit ... Sent Regular Mail to: ... Sent Express Mail to: ... We will not accept hand delivered forms at Express Mail addresses.” Page 3, form GU35, revision 2020-12-31. Source document

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union

Employer plan, Credit union

Covers SchoolsFirst FCU 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP) Share Certificate; SchoolsFirst Retirement Plans 403(b), 401(a) and 457(b) (Nationwide Retirement Solutions form).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. A trust may be named (form of Nationwide Retirement Solutions, plan administrator for SchoolsFirstRP.com)
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Trust documents
Requested. At designation, title page and signature page of the trust.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
A predeceased beneficiary's share goes pro rata to the remaining beneficiaries (heirs excluded); contingents take only if no primary survives.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. A married participant naming anyone other than the spouse needs spousal consent; an unmarried participant's designation becomes void 12 months after a later marriage (governmental 457(b) plan of public school employers)
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs and dates the consent on the form; no notary or plan representative stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; attach extra sheets.
Electronic signature
Accepted. Wet signature or DocuSign only.
How to submit
Fax; in person (any branch); mail.
Processing time
5 business days.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If your beneficiary is a trust, please include the Title page and signature page of the trust document.” Page 1, revision 2024-08, SchoolsFirst Retirement Plans 403(b), 401(a) and 457(b) (Nationwide Retirement Solutions form). Source document

Trust documents. “If your beneficiary is a trust, please include the Title page and signature page of the trust document.” Page 1, revision 2024-08, SchoolsFirst Retirement Plans 403(b), 401(a) and 457(b) (Nationwide Retirement Solutions form). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, his or her interest and the interest of his or her heirs shall terminate completely ... If no primary beneficiary(ies) survives me, the contingent beneficiary(ies) shall acquire the designated share.” Page 2, revision 2024-02, SchoolsFirst FCU 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP) Share Certificate, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-21. Source document

Spousal consent. “I am MARRIED and designate the following person(s) to receive death benefits from the Plan ... Spousal Consent (This Section is Required for Option 3) ... I understand that if I marry, this designation becomes void 12 months after my marriage.” Page 1, revision 2024-02, SchoolsFirst FCU 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP) Share Certificate, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-21. Source document

How the spouse consents. “I understand that in consenting to this distribution, I will be waiving rights to other distribution benefits ... Spouse's Signature (REQUIRED)” Page 2, revision 2024-02, SchoolsFirst FCU 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP) Share Certificate, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-21. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If additional space for beneficiaries is required, attach additional sheets and mark this box” Page 1, revision 2024-08, SchoolsFirst Retirement Plans 403(b), 401(a) and 457(b) (Nationwide Retirement Solutions form). Source document

Electronic signature. “Please be advised that a physical signature or DocuSign signature is required. We are unable to accept any other form of electronic signature.” Page 2, revision 2024-08, SchoolsFirst Retirement Plans 403(b), 401(a) and 457(b) (Nationwide Retirement Solutions form). Source document

How to submit. “Fax completed forms to (714) 258-4185 ... Return to any branch, or mail to:” Page 1, revision 2024-02, SchoolsFirst FCU 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP) Share Certificate, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-21. Source document

Processing time. “Please allow 5 business days after submission for your account information to update. ... becomes effective within 5 business days after receipt by SchoolsFirst FCU” Page 1, revision 2024-02, SchoolsFirst FCU 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP) Share Certificate, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-21. Source document

Schwab Retirement Plan Services

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers United Airlines Pilot Retirement Account Plan (PRAP) 401(k), recordkept by SRPS; William Blair 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plan, recordkept by SRPS.

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Plan-specific default, surviving spouse if married, otherwise the participant's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Plan-specific, married participant needs spouse's consent to name anyone other than the spouse (ERISA 401(k)); consent mechanics not stated in the guide.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Default beneficiary. “If you are married at the time of your death, your surviving spouse will be your ... default PRAP beneficiary; if you are unmarried at the time of your death, your estate will be your default” Page 3, form CC6568428, revision 2022-04, United Airlines Pilot Retirement Account Plan (PRAP) 401(k), recordkept by SRPS. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married, you will need your spouse's consent to ... name a person other than your spouse as the beneficiary” Page 14, form CC6258587, revision 2022-02, William Blair 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plan, recordkept by SRPS. Source document

State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio (STRS Ohio)

Employer plan, Public pension system

Covers STRS Ohio Defined Contribution Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-600).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Inter vivos (living) trust; the form's lines are for persons but the checklist and signature certification cover a trust.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date; no trustee name asked.
Per stirpes
Not offered. Per stirpes refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary by full legal name, joined with "and"
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No per stirpes, no "survivors of", no testamentary trust, no initials or nicknames, no corrections (designation invalid)
Default beneficiary
Plan document succession, surviving spouse, children equally, parents equally, estate (also after marriage, birth or adoption, divorce, withdrawal)
If a beneficiary dies first
Secondaries only if all primaries predecease; equal shares unless percentages total 100%.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Married member naming a primary other than the spouse.
How the spouse consents
Separate spousal consent form requested from STRS Ohio, signed by the spouse before a notary.
Effect of divorce
Revokes, divorce (also marriage, birth or adoption, legal separation, withdrawal, plan change) cancels the whole designation; plan succession then applies.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 secondary lines; additional sheet allowed.
Online designation
Available. Online Personal Account.
How to submit
Online; paper form returned to STRS Ohio.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If designating a trust, include the name of the trust and the date it was created. The trust must be an inter vivos or living trust.” Page 4, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

How to name the trust. “If I have designated a trust as beneficiary, I confirm it is an inter vivos trust and have included the date it was created.” Page 3, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Per stirpes. “Designate beneficiaries by name. Do not designate "per stirpes"” Page 4, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

A class like "my children". “Designate beneficiaries by name. Do not designate "per stirpes" or "the survivors of ... Provide full names of all beneficiaries designated in Part 2 of the beneficiary form.” Page 4, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Refused wording. “Designate beneficiaries by name. Do not designate "per stirpes" or "the survivors of ... A testamentary trust cannot be designated as a beneficiary. ... Any corrections or use of correction fluid will invalidate this designation” Page 2, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you have not previously filed a beneficiary designation, the succession of beneficiaries now applies to your account. ... Children, share and share alike ... Parents, share and share alike” Page 2, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-07. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Applies only in the event of the deaths of all primary beneficiaries. ... all primary beneficiaries will receive an equal share of the benefit” Page 3, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married and designate a primary beneficiary other than your spouse, your spouse will be required to sign, and have notarized, a spousal consent form.” Page 3, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-07. Source document

How the spouse consents. “A notarized spousal consent form is required if you are married and you designate a primary beneficiary other than your spouse. Please contact STRS Ohio to request the appropriate spousal consent form.” Page 4, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-07. Source document

Effect of divorce. “this designation of beneficiaries will be canceled automatically by marriage; birth or adoption of a child; divorce, dissolution or legal separation; withdrawal or distribution of my account” Page 2, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-07. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “To designate more than three primary or three secondary beneficiaries, attach a separate sheet of paper listing the additional” Page 3, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

Online designation. “Members may also designate or change beneficiaries through their Online Personal Accounts at www.strsoh.org.” Page 1, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

How to submit. “Members may also designate or change beneficiaries through their Online Personal Accounts at www.strsoh.org. ... Return the completed form to STRS Ohio.” Page 1, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio (STRS Ohio)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126); STRS Ohio Combined Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-601); STRS Ohio retiree designation for all STRS Ohio death benefits (form 14-102); STRS Ohio reemployed retiree account refund and annuity beneficiary (form 16-133); STRS Ohio plan of payment beneficiary at retirement (Beneficiary Information page).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Inter vivos (living) trust only; lump-sum refund only, and only if no qualified children.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. 2024 form 16-126 has a trust section for primary and for secondary beneficiaries (earlier 2013 printing had person lines only)
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date of trust; a trust contact (not necessarily the trustee); no "as trustee" wording.
Per stirpes
Not offered. Per stirpes refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary by full name, joined with "and"
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No per stirpes, no "survivors of", no testamentary trust, no initials or nicknames, no corrections or correction fluid (designation invalid)
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate may take a refund if no qualified children; estate is also last in statutory succession.
Default beneficiary
Statutory succession (spouse, qualified children, nonqualified children, dependent parent, parents, estate) with no designation, after a life event, or if no designated beneficiary survives.
If a beneficiary dies first
Secondaries take only if all primaries predecease; equal shares unless percentages total 100%; statutory succession if no named beneficiary survives.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Married member naming a primary other than the spouse.
How the spouse consents
Separate spousal consent form requested from STRS Ohio, signed by the spouse before a notary.
Effect of divorce
Divorce (also marriage, birth or adoption, legal separation, withdrawal, plan change) cancels the designation; statutory succession then applies.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 secondary lines; additional sheet allowed, names joined with "and"
Online designation
Available. Online Personal Account.
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Ink signature required.
How to submit
Online; paper form returned to STRS Ohio (275 E. Broad St., Columbus; mail or delivery method not stated)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you name a trust, it must be an inter vivos trust. Only a lump-sum payment of the withdrawal value will be paid to a trust and only if there are no qualified children* eligible for monthly benefits at the time of your death.” Page 3, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Use only if naming a trust as a secondary beneficiary.” Page 3, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

How to name the trust. “If I have designated a trust as beneficiary, I confirm it is an inter vivos trust and have included the date it was created.” Page 3, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Per stirpes. “Designate beneficiaries by name. Do not designate "per stirpes"” Page 4, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

A class like "my children". “Designate beneficiaries by name. Do not designate "per stirpes" or "the survivors of ..." ... Use complete names, not initials or nicknames.” Page 3, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Refused wording. “Do not designate "per stirpes" or "the survivors of ..." ... A testamentary trust cannot be named as a beneficiary.” Page 4, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “A refund of your account to a named beneficiary, inter vivos trust fund or estate will be made only if there are no qualified children” Page 3, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you have not previously filed a beneficiary designation, the statutory succession of beneficiaries now applies to your account. ... Nonqualified children, who share equally in a withdrawal of the STRS Ohio account ... Is not survived by a designated beneficiary.” Page 2, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Applies only in the event of the deaths of all primary beneficiaries. ... If you do not select a percentage for each designated primary beneficiary below or the total of all designated percentages does not equal 100%, all primary beneficiaries will receive an equal share of the benefit.” Page 2, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married and designate a primary beneficiary other than your spouse, your spouse will be required to sign, and have notarized, a spousal consent form.” Page 3, STRS Ohio Combined Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-601), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-07. Source document

How the spouse consents. “A notarized spousal consent form is required if you are married and you designate a primary beneficiary other than your spouse. Please contact STRS Ohio to request the appropriate spousal consent form.” Page 4, STRS Ohio Combined Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-601), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-07. Source document

Effect of divorce. “I understand that this designation of beneficiaries will be canceled automatically by marriage; birth or adoption of a child; divorce, dissolution or legal separation; or withdrawal of my account” Page 2, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2015-09-16. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “To designate more than three primary or three secondary beneficiaries, attach a separate sheet of paper listing the additional names” Page 3, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

Online designation. “Members may also designate or change beneficiaries through their Online Personal Accounts at www.strsoh.org.” Page 1, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

Electronic signature. “Your designation must be entirely completed in ink or typed. Your signature must be in ink. Do not print your signature.” Page 1, STRS Ohio retiree designation for all STRS Ohio death benefits (form 14-102), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-07. Source document

How to submit. “Members may also designate or change beneficiaries through their Online Personal Accounts at www.strsoh.org. ... Return the completed form to STRS Ohio.” Page 1, STRS Ohio Defined Benefit Plan, pre-retirement beneficiary (form 16-126), read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-11-06. Source document

T. Rowe Price Retirement Plan Services

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan); 403(b)(7) custodial account (T. Rowe Price as custodian; example, University of Central Florida 403(b) plan application).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No box; lapse is proportional "unless you instruct otherwise"
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Surviving spouse if married; otherwise not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
"unless you instruct otherwise"
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, entire vested account to spouse unless notarized consent; consent limited to named beneficiaries.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, entire vested account to spouse unless notarized consent; consent limited to named beneficiaries.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 lines; attach additional forms for more.
Online designation
Available.
How to submit
Online (rps.troweprice.com); phone; fax (plan form)
In the institution’s own words

Per stirpes. “If a primary beneficiary dies before you, the percentages will be recalculated proportionately among the surviving primary beneficiaries unless you instruct otherwise.” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you are married, your entire vested account in the plan will be paid to your surviving spouse after you die, unless you designate someone else” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary dies before you, the percentages will be recalculated proportionately among the surviving primary beneficiaries unless you instruct otherwise.” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married, your entire vested account in the plan will be paid to your surviving spouse after you die, unless you designate someone else as your primary beneficiary and your spouse consents ... This consent applies only to the beneficiary(ies) designated on this form. My spouse may not change beneficiaries without again getting my consent. ... My signature must be witnessed by a notary public for my consent to be effective.” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

How the spouse consents. “If you are married, your entire vested account in the plan will be paid to your surviving spouse after you die, unless you designate someone else as your primary beneficiary and your spouse consents ... This consent applies only to the beneficiary(ies) designated on this form. My spouse may not change beneficiaries without again getting my consent. ... My signature must be witnessed by a notary public for my consent to be effective.” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Please attach additional forms if more space is needed.” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

Online designation. “Your plan offers you the ability to update your Beneficiary(ies) online by going to rps.troweprice.com.” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

How to submit. “Your plan offers you the ability to update your Beneficiary(ies) online by going to rps.troweprice.com ... Fax the completed form to 816-218-0424 ... Scan the QR code to log in to your account or call us to name or update your beneficiary today” Page 1, form 201711-298319, revision 2017-10, 401(k) employer plan (plan-specific example, American Ambulance 401(k) Retirement Plan). Source document

Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15); TRS Option 3 or 4 guaranteed period annuity beneficiary (TRS30D).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Video transcript, a trust or other entity may be designated for death benefits (legal advice encouraged); TRS15 itself has only person columns and no trust instructions.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No per stirpes option; written division instructions refused; joint beneficiaries share equally among survivors.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Written stipulations and unequal portions refused.
Custom designation
Not accepted. No attachments; only the TRS form.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Minor may be named; paid to surviving parent or court-appointed adult.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. "my estate", primary or alternate; estate must be probated.
Default beneficiary
Surviving spouse, then statutory order of other related survivors, then estate (plan terms under Texas law)
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased share to surviving co-beneficiaries equally; alternates take if all primaries predecease, waive or are ineligible; if all predecease, statutory order.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Revokes a pre-divorce designation of the former spouse for death and survivor benefits only if TRS receives a certified decree before paying.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Video, any number; but TRS15 has fixed lines and says no attachments may be made.
Online designation
Paper only. Paper form only (mail or fax); employer may not accept it.
Notary or medallion
Not required. No notary for a normal signature; witness or notary only for a mark or assisted signature.
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Original ink signature required.
How to submit
Mail; fax (not through employer); must be received before death.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you intend to designate a trust, an organization, or your estate as your beneficiary for death benefits ... Primary beneficiaries are the people or entities who are eligible to receive death benefits payable by TRS.” Page 2, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Per stirpes. “TRS will not accept stipulations or instructions you write on the form for the payment or division of benefits; TRS will pay benefits according to applicable law. ... Do not stipulate unequal portions to joint beneficiaries.” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Refused wording. “TRS will not accept stipulations or instructions you write on the form for the payment or division of benefits ... Do not stipulate unequal portions to joint beneficiaries.” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Custom designation. “No attachments may be made to the form.” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If you designate a minor, any benefits will be paid to the surviving parent or the court-appointed adult responsible for the minor based on the laws in the minor's state of residence.” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “If you wish to have any benefits paid to your estate, designate "my estate" as beneficiary. Your estate can be named as either primary or alternate beneficiary. Your estate must be probated in some manner for TRS to pay benefits” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Default beneficiary. “The law provides that in the absence of a designated beneficiary, your surviving spouse is eligible to receive the benefits ... if there is no surviving spouse, TRS will pay according to the statutory order of other related survivors or if there are none, TRS will pay your estate.” Page 1, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “This means that if one designated beneficiary dies before you die, then any remaining surviving beneficiaries will receive equal shares of the benefits. ... In the event the primary beneficiary(ies) predeceases me, waives the benefits, or is ineligible to receive the benefits, I designate the following person(s) as my alternate beneficiary(ies)” Page 1, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Effect of divorce. “A divorce will revoke your former spouse as beneficiary for some TRS benefits payable after your death if you designated that person as your beneficiary before the date of your divorce and if TRS receives a certified copy of your divorce decree before paying benefits.” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You can name as many beneficiaries as you wish, and change them anytime.” Page 3, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Online designation. “To designate your beneficiary or change your beneficiary, visit the TRS website at www.trs.texas.gov to obtain a Designation of Beneficiary form. ... The completed form must be mailed to TRS at the address listed above or faxed to 512.542.6597.” Page 3, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Notary or medallion. “If you are physically unable to sign your name, you may instead make a mark on the signature line in the presence of a disinterested witness or a notary.” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

Electronic signature. “THE TRS FORM MUST INCLUDE AN ORIGINAL SIGNATURE. TRS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU SIGN IN INK” Page 2, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

How to submit. “The completed form must be mailed to TRS at the address listed above or faxed to 512.542.6597. Your employer is not authorized to accept this form on your behalf.” Page 1, form TRS15, TRS active member death benefit and retiree survivor benefit beneficiary (TRS15). Source document

The Bank of New York Mellon

Employer plan, Bank

Covers BNY Keogh plan account (fund Keogh; The Bank of New York Mellon directed on distributions).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust name and date.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Each line may be primary or contingent.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Custodian required; owner cannot be custodian.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Contingents only if no primary survives.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Married participant, spouse must consent, with a waiver of the pre-retirement survivor annuity (qualified plan survivor rules)
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs on the form before a notary.
How to submit
Effective when filed with the employer; form mailed to BNY Shareholder Services.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Beneficiary's Full Name (first, middle, last) or Trust Name ... Date of Birth/Trust (month/day/year)” Page 2. Source document

Trust as contingent. “PRIMARY OR ... CONTINGENT ... Beneficiary's Full Name (first, middle, last) or Trust Name” Page 2. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a beneficiary is a minor, you must designate a custodian and provide the minor's date of birth.” Page 1. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “We will transfer ownership of your account to your contingent beneficiaries only if there are no surviving primary beneficiaries upon the notification of the account owner's death.” Page 1. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you wish to name a beneficiary other than your spouse, or in addition to your spouse, you must obtain your spouse's written consent on this form and have it witnessed by a notary public.” Page 1. Source document

How the spouse consents. “If consent is required, your spouse's signature must be notarized below.” Page 5. Source document

How to submit. “Your designation of beneficiary(ies) become(s) effective only when filed with your employer's official personnel records. ... Please mail this completed form to” Page 1. Source document

TIAA

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 403(b)/401(k)/401(a) employer plan (TIAA and CREF contracts).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes (living or testamentary trust; not "Will")
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Date of trust (or will date for a testamentary trust); no trustee name asked.
Trust documents
Not requested. No; TIAA will not review trust terms.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No; offers "Payments made to this deceased beneficiary's children" (one generation)
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Only the children of a named beneficiary, via the "Payments made to this deceased beneficiary's children" box (one generation, no LDPS)
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "Will" refused; designations only at contract/account level.
Custom designation
Accepted. Yes, attach signed letter for a trust or "additional instructions"
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Estate unless plan provisions say otherwise.
If a beneficiary dies first
Children-of-deceased-beneficiary option; otherwise pro rata lapse.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, ERISA/plan spouse gets 50% to 100% unless waiver witnessed by notary or plan representative; online notarization accepted.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, ERISA/plan spouse gets 50% to 100% unless waiver witnessed by notary or plan representative; online notarization accepted.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; attach a signed letter for more.
Online designation
Available. Online at TIAA.org; not by phone.
Electronic signature
Accepted. Digital signature; spouse's consent may be notarized online (Notarize.com)
How to submit
Online; digital signature; upload (app or tiaa.org/upload); fax; mail; not by phone.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “A beneficiary can be an individual, an institution, an organization, a trust, or your estate. ... We cannot accept a 'Will' as a designation, but you can designate a Testamentary Trust if we are provided with the 'Will' creation date” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Trust as contingent. “4. CHOOSING YOUR CONTINGENT BENEFICIARIES ... Date of Birth/Date of Trust/Issue Date of Will” Page 4, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

How to name the trust. “Date of Birth/Date of Trust/ Issue Date of Will* (mm/dd/yyyy)” Page 4, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Trust documents. “TIAA will not accept or be obliged to inquire into the terms of any trust affecting the annuity contract/certificate/account or its death benefit and shall not be charged with knowledge of terms thereof.” Page 12, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Per stirpes. “If you check 'Payments made to this deceased beneficiary's children' and the named beneficiary predeceases you, the monies which would have been paid to that beneficiary will be divided proportionately among his/her children (if any).” Page 4, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

A class like "my children". “Beneficiaries can also be the children of the beneficiaries that you designate on this form.” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Refused wording. “TIAA cannot accept a 'Will' as a designation. ... Plan-based designations are not acceptable.” Page 3, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Custom designation. “Check this box and attach a signed letter to list additional primary and/or contingent beneficiaries, a trust or to provide additional instructions.” Page 5, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “A beneficiary can be an individual, an institution, an organization, a trust, or your estate.” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If none of the beneficiaries are living at the time of your death, we will pay your Estate, unless the plan provision states otherwise.” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a beneficiary predeceases you ... the proportion of the benefits that would have otherwise been apportioned to such deceased beneficiary shall instead be divided to the other beneficiaries who survive you” Page 11, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married at the time of your death, your spouse is entitled to receive at least 50%, up to 100%, of your death benefits under a retirement or tax-deferred annuity plan covered by any of the following: ERISA, your plan's provisions, or state law. ... A Notary Public or Plan Representative must witness your spouse signing and dating his or her consent.” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

How the spouse consents. “If you are married at the time of your death, your spouse is entitled to receive at least 50%, up to 100%, of your death benefits under a retirement or tax-deferred annuity plan covered by any of the following: ERISA, your plan's provisions, or state law. ... A Notary Public or Plan Representative must witness your spouse signing and dating his or her consent.” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Check this box and attach a signed letter to list additional primary and/or contingent beneficiaries” Page 5, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Online designation. “To update or change your beneficiary designation, please visit us online at TIAA.org/profile ... Once logged in, under the Action tab, choose Add/Edit beneficiaries. ... For your protection, we cannot change your beneficiary information over the phone.” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Electronic signature. “or online using TIAA's digital signing experience. ... OPTION 1: Digitally sign and submit your form. If you received a digital form, complete the digital signature process.” Page 8, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

How to submit. “To update or change your beneficiary designation, please visit us online at TIAA.org/profile ... OPTION 2: Use the TIAA mobile app to quickly upload your completed document(s). ... Go to tiaa.org/upload, select Upload files ... If you prefer to fax or mail your completed documents, use the information provided below.” Page 1, form F11468, revision 2022-07. Source document

Transamerica Retirement Solutions

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k) employer plan.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name, trust date and trustee name.
Per stirpes
Not offered.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, full vested balance to spouse unless consent witnessed by plan sponsor or notary; plan sponsor must sign.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, full vested balance to spouse unless consent witnessed by plan sponsor or notary; plan sponsor must sign.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent entries; supplemental page for more.
How to submit
Returned to the plan sponsor (who signs)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Type of Beneficiary Designation [ ] Individual [ ] Trust [ ] Estate” Page 2, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

Trust as contingent. “CONTINGENT BENEFICIARY ... [ ] Trust” Page 3, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

How to name the trust. “If the named beneficiary is a trust, please specify the name and date of the trust, and the name of the trustee.” Page 2, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

Per stirpes. “If you do not indicate shares, benefits will be split equally among surviving beneficiaries.” Page 2, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “[ ] Estate ... Trustee/Executor” Page 2, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

Spousal consent. “In the case of your death before retirement, the plan will pay your full vested account balance to your surviving spouse. However, you may elect to waive the requirement ... Your spouse must consent in writing to any such waiver. ... WITNESSED Plan Sponsor for Notary Public Signature and Stamp/Seal” Page 4, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

How the spouse consents. “In the case of your death before retirement, the plan will pay your full vested account balance to your surviving spouse. However, you may elect to waive the requirement ... Your spouse must consent in writing to any such waiver. ... WITNESSED Plan Sponsor for Notary Public Signature and Stamp/Seal” Page 4, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If additional space is needed to designate multiple beneficiaries, complete the Supplemental Beneficiary Designation page.” Page 2, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

How to submit. “complete all applicable sections of this form, obtain any required signatures, and return it to your Plan Sponsor.” Page 1, form 2227, revision 2014-07. Source document

UBS Financial Services

Employer plan, Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers UBS prototype qualified retirement plan (Ascensus form #481).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Married participant, spouse is primary unless the spouse consents; a later marriage makes the new spouse primary unless a new consented form is filed.
If a beneficiary dies first
Pro rata to remaining beneficiaries; heirs of a predeceased beneficiary take nothing.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Consent needed to name a non-spouse primary; QPSA waiver needs spouse consent where the plan is subject to the annuity rules.
How the spouse consents
Spouse's signature witnessed by a notary.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Default beneficiary. “I understand that my spouse will be my Primary Beneficiary. However, I understand I may designate ... a Primary Beneficiary other than or in addition to my spouse if my spouse consents to my designation.” Page 1, revision 2008-10. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before me, his or her interest and the interest of his or her heirs shall terminate completely, and the percentage share of any remaining beneficiary(ies) shall be increased on a pro rata basis.” Page 1, revision 2008-10. Source document

Spousal consent. “I understand that if I become married in the future, my spouse will be my Primary Beneficiary ... unless I complete a new Designation of Beneficiary form and my spouse consents to my designation.” Page 1, revision 2008-10. Source document

How the spouse consents. “(Must be witnessed. See below.) ... All notaries must complete the information below.” Page 1, revision 2010-04. Source document

Vanguard Institutional (employer plans)

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k)/401(a) employer plan.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes, trust under agreement or under will.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date, or will section for a testamentary trust.
Per stirpes
Not offered.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed.
Default beneficiary
Surviving spouse, else estate (generally; plan document controls)
If a beneficiary dies first
USC plan form, lapsed share pro rata to surviving primaries (the Google plan page instead says a predeceased beneficiary's share passes to that beneficiary's own primary beneficiaries; plan-specific)
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, QPSA waiver with notarized spousal consent; age 35 rule.
How the spouse consents
(from the consent text) yes, QPSA waiver with notarized spousal consent; age 35 rule.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; photocopy or separate sheet.
Online designation
Available. Yes; spousal consent printed at end and notarized.
How to submit
Online; mail; notarized spousal consent printed and mailed.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Trust(s) To the trustee of an existing trust created under agreement To the trustee of a trust created under my last will” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiaries ... Trust(s)” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

How to name the trust. “Full Name (First, Middle, Last), Trust or Charity/Entity Name ... Birth or Trust Date ... Section of Will” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Per stirpes. “If any of your primary beneficiaries is deceased at the time of your death, his or her portion of your assets will be divided proportionately among your surviving primary beneficiaries, if any.” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “My Estate ... No additional information required” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Default beneficiary. “Generally, if you don't designate any beneficiaries, or if all your primary and contingent beneficiaries predecease you, your surviving spouse becomes your beneficiary. If you're not married and haven't named a beneficiary, your money will go to your estate” Web page. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any of your primary beneficiaries is deceased at the time of your death, his or her portion of your assets will be divided proportionately among your surviving primary beneficiaries, if any.” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Spousal consent. “You must complete the following if (a) you are married, (b) have accumulated benefits in any portion of your Plan account that are subject to the qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity rules (the Rules) under Section 401(a)(11) ... Your spouse's signature must be witnessed by a Notary Public. ... If you waive the QPSA benefit prior to attaining age 35, you will need to make another waiver after your 35th birthday.” Page 3, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

How the spouse consents. “You must complete the following if (a) you are married, (b) have accumulated benefits in any portion of your Plan account that are subject to the qualified pre-retirement survivor annuity rules (the Rules) under Section 401(a)(11) ... Your spouse's signature must be witnessed by a Notary Public. ... If you waive the QPSA benefit prior to attaining age 35, you will need to make another waiver after your 35th birthday.” Page 3, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “more space to list additional beneficiaries, photocopy the applicable pages or provide all the information requested on a separate sheet.” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Online designation. “If you're married and you decide to name someone other than your spouse as your primary beneficiary, you'll need to complete a 401(k) Spousal Consent Form. You'll be able to print and complete this form at the end of the online process. The form needs to be signed and notarized” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “If you prefer, you can designate your beneficiaries online at www.vanguard.com. The online process is faster than via mail ... Mail to: Vanguard, P.O. Box 1101, Valley Forge, PA 19482.” Page 1, form XXXXXXXXXXXXXX092675800, revision 2012-04-24. Source document

Vestwell

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers Vestwell-recordkept 401(k).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trusts allowed.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. A minor may be named, but a court-appointed guardian may be needed; the page suggests naming an adult "FBO" the children or a trust instead.
Default beneficiary
Plan document governs.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse must consent to a non-spouse primary.
How the spouse consents
Notarized; kept by the participant, not filed; lost form = no designation.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Any number; percentages must total 100%.
Online designation
Available. Designation made on the saver portal.
How to submit
Online (saver portal); the notarized spousal consent form is kept by the participant, not filed.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Your beneficiary can be a person, a non-profit organization, or a Trust.” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “May I designate my children as beneficiaries? Yes, you can, but you may not want to. Minors may not inherit your account directly. ... the account may need to go through probate proceedings with a legal guardian appointed to represent the minor” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

Default beneficiary. “your account will be treated as though a form was never completed and distributed according to the plan document and applicable law” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you wish to assign anyone other than your spouse as the primary beneficiary, you will be required to provide a Spousal Consent Form.” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

How the spouse consents. “This form must be notarized, stored safely, and presented by the non-spousal beneficiaries at the time of withdrawing the benefits. We recommend giving a copy of this form to the executor of your estate. If the form cannot be located after your death, your account will be treated as though a form was never completed” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You can name as many beneficiaries as you like as long as the total percentage awarded amongst the beneficiaries adds up to 100%.” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

Online designation. “Setting up beneficiary designation on your saver portal is easy!” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

How to submit. “Setting up beneficiary designation on your saver portal is easy! ... If you do not assign a beneficiary on your portal or through a Spousal Consent Form” Web page, revision 2025-03-10. Source document

Voya Financial

Employer plan, Plan recordkeeper

Covers 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans); ADP TotalSource Retirement Savings Plan (Voya-administered 401(k); beneficiary care package).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes, but contact plan administrator.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No; class gifts allowed ("the children of the participant")
A class like "my children"
Allowed. A class such as "the children of the participant" may be named; paid equally to class members living at death.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Custodian or guardian oversees the account until 18; parent-guardian form or proof of guardianship at claim.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes (contact plan administrator)
Default beneficiary
Participant's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Class designation paid equally to living class members.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Yes, QPSA (50% to 100%) waiver with spouse consent before notary or plan rep; specific or general consent; age 35 rule.
How the spouse consents
Spouse's consent acknowledged before a notary public or plan representative; specific or general consent; a waiver signed before age 35 expires at the start of the plan year the participant reaches 35.
Online designation
Available. Yes, but married participants online may only name spouse as sole beneficiary.
How to submit
Paper form returned to the plan administrator; online (married participants online may name only the spouse as sole beneficiary)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you name an Estate or Trust as beneficiary, contact your Plan Administrator for more information.” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

Per stirpes. “If a class of beneficiaries is designated (such as, "the children of the participant or annuitant"), then payment will be made in equal shares to each person who is a member of the class and living at the death of the participant” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

A class like "my children". “If a class of beneficiaries is designated (such as, "the children of the participant or annuitant"), then payment will be made in equal shares to each person who is a member of the class and living at the death of the participant or annuitant whether or not he/she has been specifically named” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If the beneficiary is a minor under the age of 18, a ... until the minor reaches the age of 18. ... Proof of legal guardianship” Page 4, ADP TotalSource Retirement Savings Plan (Voya-administered 401(k); beneficiary care package). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “If you name an Estate or Trust as beneficiary, contact your Plan Administrator for more information.” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no beneficiary survives the participant or annuitant, payment will be made to the executors or administrators of the estate of the participant or annuitant.” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a class of beneficiaries is designated (such as, "the children of the participant or annuitant"), then payment will be made in equal shares to each person who is a member of the class and living at the death of the participant” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

Spousal consent. “You may elect to waive the QPSA benefit and name a non-spouse beneficiary for the QPSA percentage of your account, provided that your spouse consents in writing. ... the waiver will expire on the first day of the plan year in which I reach age 35” Page 1, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

How the spouse consents. “Without my consent, my spouse cannot elect to waive this benefit. ... known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument ... Notary Public ... Plan Representative ... I also understand that my consent is irrevocable unless my spouse revokes the above waiver.” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

Online designation. “If you are married, your spouse must be designated as your sole beneficiary to complete your election online. If you choose to designate someone other than your spouse, please visit Plan Details > Forms on the participant website to download a paper copy of the form.” Page 1, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

How to submit. “Please complete this form and return it to your Plan Administrator. ... Once you make your changes click on Submit.” Page 2, form Form No. 82094 ODK QPSA (Order #167358), revision 05/01/2013, 401(k)/403(b) employer plan (QPSA plans). Source document

Washington State Department of Retirement Systems

Employer plan, Public pension system

Covers Deferred Compensation Program (DCP, 457(b)).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust may be named.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No self-designation; whole-number percentages totaling 100%.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Name a custodian on DRS MS 100.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. DRS MS 100 covers DCP investment accounts; "Estate of [name]"
Default beneficiary
Estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased primary's percentage shared equally among surviving primaries; contingents only if all primaries die.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Extra signed sheet; no limit.
Online designation
Available. Online (DRS account, My Account)
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Paper form signed in ink; online designation available.
How to submit
Online; paper DRS MS 100 by mail, upload or fax.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You can name anyone as your beneficiary: spouse, child, domestic partner, friend, neighbor, etc. You can also designate a charity or trust.” Page 11, form DRSD112, revision 2026-03. Source document

Refused wording. “You must name at least one beneficiary. Do not name yourself. ... Use whole numbers only (no decimals or fractions).” Page 1, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If your beneficiaries include minors, the law requires additional steps to transfer funds. Failure to indicate a custodian for minor beneficiaries before your death may require guardianship proceedings” Page 4, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “A beneficiary can be a person, estate or entity. ... Consider naming your estate instead of listing each person. Do this by entering” Page 3, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you die without a current beneficiary designation on file, a distribution will be made to your estate.” Page 11, form DRSD112, revision 2026-03. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any beneficiaries precede me in death, share their percentages equally among the remaining primary beneficiaries. ... Contingent beneficiaries receive your account balance if all your primary beneficiaries die.” Page 4, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you have additional beneficiaries, include a separate sheet with the same information as the above section, then sign and date it.” Page 4, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08. Source document

Online designation. “Once you are enrolled in DCP, update your beneficiaries online through drs.wa.gov/oaa.” Page 11, form DRSD112, revision 2026-03. Source document

Electronic signature. “Sign in ink. Electronic signatures are not accepted.” Page 4, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08. Source document

How to submit. “update your beneficiaries online through drs.wa.gov/oaa. Or, complete the paper form Beneficiary Designation and mail it to DRS. ... Scan completed form. Log into drs.wa.gov/oaa, select "Upload Documents" under "My Documents."” Page 11, form DRSD112, revision 2026-03. Source document

Washington State Department of Retirement Systems

Pension, Public pension system

Covers PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3); Judicial Retirement System (JRS, closed plan) survivor option and beneficiary (JRS Plan 1 member handbook).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust may be named (DRS MS 133 beneficiary page)
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Member may not name himself or herself; whole-number percentages totaling 100% only.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Minor may be named; name a custodian on the form, otherwise guardianship or waiting until 18.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. "Estate of [Your First and Last Name]" on the name line.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased primary's percentage shared equally among surviving primaries; contingents only if all primaries die.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Married member's option choice needs spousal consent.
How the spouse consents
Written consent before a notary, in the retirement application; otherwise Option 3 (joint and 50%) to the spouse.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke, the survivor beneficiary cannot be changed after retirement, even after divorce.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 lines on DRS MS 100; extra signed sheet; no limit.
Online designation
Available. Online for members; retirees must use the paper form.
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Paper DRS MS 100 must be signed in ink (online designation in the DRS account is separate)
How to submit
Online designation; paper form by mail, upload in the online account, or fax.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “A beneficiary is a person or entity (estate, trust, charitable organization, etc.) you choose to receive your money.” Page 4, form DRSMS133, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

Refused wording. “You must name at least one beneficiary. Do not name yourself. ... Use whole numbers only (no decimals or fractions).” Page 1, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If your beneficiaries include minors, the law requires additional steps to transfer funds. Failure to indicate a custodian for minor beneficiaries before your death may require guardianship proceedings” Page 4, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “A beneficiary can be a person, estate or entity. ... Consider naming your estate instead of listing each person. Do this by entering” Page 3, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any beneficiaries precede me in death, share their percentages equally among the remaining primary beneficiaries. ... Contingent beneficiaries receive your account balance if all your primary beneficiaries die.” Page 4, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

Spousal consent. “the law requires that you provide your spouse's consent to the benefit option you choose” Page 7, Judicial Retirement System (JRS, closed plan) survivor option and beneficiary (JRS Plan 1 member handbook). Source document

How the spouse consents. “This consent must be in writing and must be witnessed by a notary. If consent is not provided, the law requires that an Option 3 benefit be paid with your spouse as the beneficiary.” Page 7, Judicial Retirement System (JRS, closed plan) survivor option and beneficiary (JRS Plan 1 member handbook). Source document

Effect of divorce. “become divorced from your beneficiary after retirement, you may not name a new beneficiary” Page 7, Judicial Retirement System (JRS, closed plan) survivor option and beneficiary (JRS Plan 1 member handbook). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you have additional beneficiaries, include a separate sheet with the same information as the above section, then sign and date it.” Page 4, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

Online designation. “Most customers can skip this form and update beneficiary designations quickly online at drs.wa.gov/oaa. Retired members must update beneficiaries using this form.” Page 1, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

Electronic signature. “Sign in ink. Electronic signatures are not accepted.” Page 2, form DRSMS133, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

How to submit. “Print, sign and submit form pages 2-4. Choose one of the following: ... Scan completed form. Log into drs.wa.gov/oaa, select "Upload Documents" under "My Documents."” Page 1, form DRSMS100, revision 2026-08, PERS / TRS / SERS pension (Plans 2 and 3). Source document

Wisconsin Retirement System (Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds, ETF)

Employer plan, Public pension system

Covers Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program 457(b) (Empower form GU22, plan document ET-2367).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Empower (WDC service provider) form; trust example gives trust name, TIN and trust date.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be contingent.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date column; no trustee name required.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate may be named.
Default beneficiary
Spouse, children (per stirpes style), grandchildren, parents, siblings, estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To surviving beneficiaries at the same level; equal shares if no percentages.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Divorce does not revoke.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 contingent lines; additional sheet allowed.
Online designation
Available. Online via the WDC account (My Beneficiaries page) or paper.
How to submit
Fax, regular mail or express mail to Empower; online.
How to disclaim
Described. Waiver under Wis. Stat. 40.08(3); waiving beneficiary treated as predeceased; waiver irrevocable.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “(Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.) ... Example 2: Trust as Beneficiary” Page 1, form GU22. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary Designation (Contingent beneficiary designations must total 100% in whole percentages.) ... (Name of Individual, Trust, Charity, etc.)” Page 1, form GU22. Source document

How to name the trust. “Example 2: Trust as Beneficiary ... Trust of Jane Doe” Page 3, form GU22. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Example 3: Estate as Beneficiary ... Estate of Anne Doe” Page 3, form GU22. Source document

Default beneficiary. “In the absence of a written designation of BENEFICIARY, or if all designated BENEFICIARIES who survive the decedent die before the ACCOUNT HOLDER, the ACCOUNT HOLDER's BENEFICIARIES shall be determined pursuant to the standard sequence established in Wisconsin Statutes 40.02(8)(a).” Page 11, form ET-2367, revision 2025-01-01, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-10-28. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases me, his or her benefit will be allocated to the surviving primary beneficiaries. Contingent beneficiaries will receive a benefit only if there is no surviving primary beneficiary” Page 2, form GU22. Source document

Effect of divorce. “This means, for example, that a BENEFICIARY designation naming a spouse is not affected by a subsequent divorce.” Page 10, form ET-2367, revision 2025-01-01, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-10-28. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Attach an additional sheet to name additional beneficiaries.” Page 1, form GU22. Source document

Online designation. “Use the WDC Online Beneficiary Form to designate who will receive your WDC benefits upon your death.” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “this form can be sent by ... Fax to: ... Regular Mail to: ... Express Mail to:” Page 2, form GU22. Source document

How to disclaim. “A BENEFICIARY may waive all or a portion of the right to or the payment of any benefit payable or to become payable under the PLAN to the BENEFICIARY as provided in Wis. Stat. 40.08 (3).” Web page, form ET-2367, revision 2025-01-01, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-10-28. Source document

Wisconsin Retirement System (Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds, ETF)

Pension, Public pension system

Covers WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321); WRS joint and survivor annuity named survivor (lifetime continuation chosen at retirement).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust may be named; for the at-or-above-MRA special death benefit the trust must have a living individual beneficiary.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust may be secondary; the trustee should not be a primary beneficiary (name a successor trustee or contact instead)
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name first, creation date, trustee name followed by "trustee"; testamentary trust, "created under my last will and testament", no date.
Trust documents
Not requested. Do not send trust paperwork with the form.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Class of children or grandchildren only with this exact statement; otherwise name living persons individually.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No "or", no conditions on payment, no numbering, no margin notes, no fixed dollar amounts (percentages only); you cannot name someone else's testamentary trust.
Custom designation
Not accepted. ETF form only, unaltered; extra beneficiaries on additional signed copies of the form.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Paid to guardian, natural guardian or UTMA; otherwise held until 18.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate primary or secondary; no secondary if estate is primary.
Default beneficiary
Standard sequence (Wis. Stat. 40.02(8)(a)), spouse or domestic partner, children (predeceased child's share to that child's children), parents, siblings (predeceased sibling's share to that sibling's children), estate; "standard sequence" may also be written in as the designation.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased beneficiary's share to surviving beneficiaries at the same level; with ET-2321, to the alternates named for that beneficiary; secondaries take only if all primaries (and alternates) predecease.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Divorce does not revoke; file a new form.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 secondary lines on ET-2320; extra signed copies of the form allowed.
Online designation
Paper only. Paper form only (mail or fax)
How to submit
Mail; fax (not to the employer)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You may name: ... A trust. ... Your beneficiary(ies) must be one or more individual(s) or a trust in which one or more living individual(s) has a beneficiary interest.” Page 4, form ET-6101, revision 2026-04-23, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Trust as contingent. “You may name primary and secondary beneficiaries on your beneficiary designation form. ... ETF may reject your designation if a trust is named as a secondary beneficiary and you have named as trustee a person who is named as a primary beneficiary.” Page 2, form ET-2320, revision 2026-02-20, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

How to name the trust. “The name of the trustee, followed by the word "trustee." ... Example of an acceptable trust designation: ... The Appletree Family Revocable Trust, created May 4, 2020, Jane Smith, Trustee” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Trust documents. “If you name a trust as your beneficiary, please do not include any trust paperwork along with your beneficiary form. ETF does not need this paperwork at this time.” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

A class like "my children". “"I also include as beneficiaries as if each were specifically and individually named herein, any and all of my natural and legally adopted children." ... You may substitute "grandchildren" for "children" in the above example.” Page 3, form ET-2320, revision 2026-02-20, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Refused wording. “Do not use the word "or" when designating multiple beneficiaries. Do not impose any conditions on payment. Your designation will be rejected. ... Do not number your beneficiaries.” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Custom designation. “Do not make any changes to the form. Your designation will be rejected. ... Do not write in the margins of the form.” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “You may name a minor child as a beneficiary. If the child is still a minor when you die, ETF will not pay the child directly. ETF will pay the child's court-appointed guardian, or the person providing for or caring for the child, such as the child's parent. ETF can also pay into a Uniform Transfer to Minors Account (UTMA) for the child.” Page 2, form ET-2320, revision 2026-02-20, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “You may name your estate as either primary or secondary beneficiary by writing "Estate" under Name. If you name your estate as a primary beneficiary, you cannot name a secondary beneficiary.” Page 3, form ET-2320, revision 2026-02-20, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Default beneficiary. “If you don't file a beneficiary designation with ETF, your benefits will be paid out in the order called "standard sequence" which is part of Wisconsin law. ... Group 1. Your surviving spouse or domestic partner. ... If there are no survivors in Groups 1 through 4, any death benefits will be paid to your estate.” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If one of them has died before you, the other will get the full benefit. ... If a primary beneficiary dies before you, that share will be paid to any alternate primary beneficiaries you have named.” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Effect of divorce. “Life changes such as marriage or divorce do not automatically change or revoke your beneficiaries that you have named on a beneficiary designation. ... To remove a former spouse as a beneficiary, you must file a new designation.” Page 2, form ET-2320, revision 2026-02-20, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you need more space to name your beneficiaries, complete and submit extra beneficiary designation forms and clearly mark them as page 1 of 2, etc. You must sign and date each page.” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

Online designation. “The only way to name beneficiaries for your WRS account or your Wisconsin Public Employers Life Insurance is by completing ETF's beneficiary designation forms. ... Submit your signed form to ETF via mail or fax” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

How to submit. “The form can be faxed, we do not have to have the original signed copy. ... Submit your signed form to ETF via mail or fax” Web page, WRS defined benefit retirement account (Beneficiary Designation ET-2320 / ET-2321). Source document

A 401(k) rolled into an IRA moves to the IRA custodian’s form, where per stirpes is usually available, and the IRA beneficiary rules show which custodians offer it. The trust naming table shows what each plan asks for when a trust is the beneficiary, and the guide to what happens to your IRA or 401(k) when you die covers the payout rules.

Sources

Data and Citation

The data is free to reuse with credit under CC BY 4.0. The beneficiary rules CSV and JSON file hold one row per institution and account group with every field, quote, page, form number and source link. The trust account CSV and JSON file hold the rules for accounts owned by a trust, and the data dictionary defines each column.

Please cite this page as Klagge, Kevin D., 401(k), 403(b), 457, TSP and Pension Beneficiary Designation Rules (2026), StepUpLaw, https://stepuplaw.com/data/beneficiary-designation-rules/employer-plans/ (DOI 10.5281/zenodo.22983148).

Corrections are welcome at [email protected]. An institution that wants its listing changed should send the current form or the page on its own site that states the rule.


Compiled by Kevin D. Klagge, Esq., Fla. Bar No. 99502. Updated September 27, 2026. This is reference information, not legal, tax or financial advice, and reading it creates no attorney-client relationship. A listing is not an endorsement of any institution, no institution pays to be listed, and the page carries no affiliate links. Forms change, so confirm the current form with the institution before you sign. “Not stated” means the public documents read are silent on the point. It does not mean the institution refuses the option.