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Transfer on Death (TOD) Account Beneficiary Rules at 38 Brokerages

6 of the 20 brokerage transfer-on-death forms that address per stirpes refuse it, and 11 of the 13 TOD agreements that address divorce leave a former spouse in place as beneficiary. Wells Fargo Advisors says “We will not honor "per stirpes" or any similar designation where we would have to determine the identities of heirs of a deceased beneficiary.”

The listings below give the transfer-on-death rules of 38 brokerages, banks and fund companies, read from each firm’s own TOD form or agreement between September 24 and 27, 2026. Every yes or no is backed by the firm’s own words, with the page, form number, revision date and a link to the document.

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 TOD Forms Say

  1. Per stirpes. Merrill, Baird Funds, Robinhood, Vanguard, Wells Fargo Advisors and Putnam (Franklin Templeton) refuse it on their TOD accounts. Vanguard says “Vanguard doesn't accept designations that name a group of individuals, such as "my descendants" or "children, per stirpes," on a Transfer on Death Plan”. Fidelity offers a checkbox and says “If you outlive a beneficiary and you want that beneficiary's share to go to his or her descendants, check "Per stirpes."”
  2. Each person must be named. 12 of the 18 TOD documents that address class gifts refuse a designation such as “my children.” Edward Jones says “Lineal Descendants per Stirpes is not a valid method of ... designating Beneficiaries under this Agreement.”
  3. Divorce changes nothing on most TOD accounts. Schwab’s agreement says that “the former spouse will remain a beneficiary after the” divorce. Only Edward Jones and Stifel say divorce revokes a former spouse’s designation.
  4. Trusts. SoFi Invest, The Northern Trust Company and Webull Financial limit TOD beneficiaries to individuals. The other TOD forms that address the point let the owner name a trust.

TOD Rules by Brokerage

Each listing shows the rules the documents state, and eight core rules always, marked “Not stated” where the documents are silent.

Acorns (Acorns Securities, LLC)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Acorns taxable account TOD.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust and trustee name.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and trustee name; no trust date field.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
How to submit
Email.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Name of beneficiary/trust Name of trustee (if applicable)” Page 1, form Beneficiary Form and Agreement. Source document

How to name the trust. “Name of beneficiary/trust ... Name of trustee (if applicable)” Page 1, form Beneficiary Form and Agreement. Source document

How to submit. “Please complete and email this form to [email protected].” Page 1, form Beneficiary Form and Agreement. Source document

Ally Invest (Ally Invest Securities; clearing and custody through Apex Clearing per form)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (cleared by Apex Clearing).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust name, all trustees, date.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Same details.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name, names of all trustees and date established.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No fractions or dollar amounts.
Default beneficiary
As if no TOD (owner's estate)
If a beneficiary dies first
Pro rata to surviving primaries.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community or marital property states.
Online designation
Paper only. Paper form (upload, fax or mail); no online designation.
How to submit
Fax; mail; upload online.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Primary Beneficiaries (If designating a trust, please provide trust name, names of all trustees, and date established).” Page 2, form Ally Invest Transfer on Death Form V3, revision Updated 20260528. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiaries (If designating a trust, please provide trust name, names of all trustees, and date established).” Page 3, form Ally Invest Transfer on Death Form V3, revision Updated 20260528. Source document

How to name the trust. “If designating a trust, please provide trust name, names of all trustees, and date established” Page 2, form Ally Invest Transfer on Death Form V3, revision Updated 20260528. Source document

Refused wording. “Share totals must equal 100%. Do not use fractional percentages or dollar amounts.” Page 2, form Ally Invest Transfer on Death Form V3, revision Updated 20260528. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If none of the Primary or Contingent beneficiaries I (We) have designated survives me (us), any interest I (We) may have in this account shall pass as if my (our) Transfer on Death instructions did not exist.” Page 4, form Ally Invest Transfer on Death Form V3, revision Updated 20260528. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If the death of one or more designated Primary Beneficiary(ies) precedes my (our) death, the interest they would have received from his account will be paid, upon my (our) death, to my surviving Primary Beneficiary(ies) Pro Rata” Page 4, form Ally Invest Transfer on Death Form V3, revision Updated 20260528. Source document

Spousal consent. “Spouse's signature is required if the spouse and/or Account Holder reside(s) in a Community Property or Marital Property State, and the spouse is not an account holder, or named as the sole primary beneficiary.” Page 4, form Ally Invest Transfer on Death Form V3, revision Updated 20260528. Source document

Online designation. “To change or add a beneficiary to a non-IRA Ally Invest account, complete the Beneficiary Form (PDF) , then upload it in the forms section after logging in.” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “Please complete this form in its entirety and return via fax, mail, or upload online. ... To change or add a beneficiary to a non-IRA Ally Invest account, complete the Beneficiary Form (PDF) , then upload it in the forms section after logging in.” Web page, form Ally Invest IRA Beneficiary Designation Form V.2, revision 2023-02. Source document

Ameriprise Financial (Ameriprise Trust Company, custodian)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage, SPS, Ameriprise ONE, certificate and mutual fund TOD (Minnesota Uniform TOD Security Registration Act).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Option E "Other"
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Secondary beneficiaries under option E.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust name and trust date required.
Per stirpes
Offered. Preset family options only.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Predeceased child's share to that child's children; stepchildren and grandchildren excluded from "lawful children"
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Preset "lawful children" classes (after-born included; stepchildren and grandchildren excluded)
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Accepted. Free-form "Text Other" or signed attachment.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian and successor custodian on form.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Option E, proportional to survivors; without a survivorship provision, lapsed share to owner's estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property states.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Attach more under option F.
Online designation
Available. Online; the only option for Ameriprise Bank products.
How to submit
Online; through the financial advisor; paper form 3214.
Processing time
Forms within five business days; online immediate.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Beneficiary Name* (provide full name of Person, Trust, or Organization designated as beneficiary) ... Trust Date* (if Trust named)” Page 2, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Select Primary or Secondary Status* (Select one) Primary Secondary” Page 2, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

How to name the trust. “Beneficiary Name* (provide full name of Person, Trust, or Organization designated as beneficiary) ... Trust Date* (if Trust named)” Page 2, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

Per stirpes. “B. Spouse if Living, if not, Lawful Children With Rights of Survivorship per Stirpes.” Page 2, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “if a child of the owner has died before the owner, the share which the child would have received if he or she survived the owner will be paid to his or her children legally born to, or legally adopted by that deceased child, per stirpes.” Page 2, form DOC01033993, revision 2020-05. Source document

A class like "my children". “if "lawful children" is included in my TOD, such registration shall be deemed to include any legitimate children born to or children legally adopted by me before or after the date of this Agreement whether or not listed by name on this Agreement.” Page 4, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

Custom designation. “F. Text Other. This beneficiary designation is considered to be with rights of survivorship if you do not indicate otherwise. If you are using an attachment to provide a free-form beneficiary designation, the attachment must also be signed and dated by all owners of the account(s) and all account numbers must be listed.” Page 3, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If any beneficiary listed in this form is a minor, I hereby request that proceeds be paid to [...] as custodian under the [...] (name of state) UTMA (not available in Vermont).” Page 3, form DOC01033993, revision 2020-05. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary pre-deceases the owner, the share a primary beneficiary would have received had he or she survived the owner will be divided proportionately among the surviving beneficiaries. ... I understand that if no survivorship provision is indicated in my TOD registration, any funds earmarked to a beneficiary who precedes me in death will be paid to my estate.” Page 2, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

Spousal consent. “This consent of spouse must be signed if all of the following conditions are present: (a) the spouse of the owner is living, (b) is not the sole primary beneficiary named, and (c) the owner and spouse are residents of a community property state” Page 5, form 3214, revision 2023-08. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “I have a long designation and need more room on the form; what should I do? Complete the form requirements as usual but Check the Option Circle "F" called "Text Other" on your beneficiary form and write, "See Attached."” Web page. Source document

Online designation. “Online in the secure site on ameriprise.com (this is the only option available for Ameriprise Bank products.)” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “Online in the secure site on ameriprise.com ... Contact your financial advisor to fill out a new form that can be sent to you for signature ... Transfer on Death Agreement Form” Web page. Source document

Processing time. “When you submit a form, your beneficiary designation will be reviewed and acknowledged within five business days.” Web page. Source document

Apex Clearing Corporation (Apex Fintech Solutions)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Apex form 69448P-UTOD).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust name, all trustees, date.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Same.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name, names of all trustees and date established.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No fractions or dollar amounts.
Default beneficiary
Passes as if no TOD registration (owner's estate or surviving joint owner)
If a beneficiary dies first
Pro rata to surviving primaries; same rule for contingents.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community or marital property states.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If Beneficiary is a Trust: Provide Name of Trust, names of all trustees, and date established” Page 2, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Trust as contingent. “CONTINGENT BENEFICIARY(S) If Beneficiary is a Trust: Provide Name of Trust, names of all trustees, and date established” Page 3, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

How to name the trust. “If Beneficiary is a Trust: Provide Name of Trust, names of all trustees, and date established” Page 2, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Refused wording. “Share totals must equal 100%. Fractional percentages or dollar amounts are not accepted.” Page 2, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If none of the Primary or Contingent beneficiaries I (We) have designated survives me (us), any interest I (We) may have in this account shall pass as if my (our) Transfer on Death instructions did not exist.” Page 4, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “In the event of the death of one or more designated Primary Beneficiary(s) precedes my (our) death, the interest they would have received from this account will be paid, upon my (our) death, to my (our) surviving Primary Beneficiary(s) Pro Rata” Page 4, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Spousal consent. “spouse is not an account holder, or named as the sole primary beneficiary. By signing, spouse voluntarily and irrevocably consents to the beneficiary designation” Page 5, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Axos Bank

Bank

Covers Axos Advisor Services brokerage TOD (Transfer on Death Agreement TOD 5/2025; affiliate Axos Clearing LLC; Nebraska law).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes (affiliate Axos Clearing LLC form)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Persons or entities as contingent.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date and current trustee; successor trustees included; a trust revoked before death is treated as a predeceased beneficiary.
Per stirpes
Offered. A per stirpes box on each beneficiary line; its effect is not explained.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Class designations are not effective; each living beneficiary must be named.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian may be designated; otherwise transfer to a guardian or conservator or to the owner's estate.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate; also if the account is re-registered to an ineligible type.
If a beneficiary dies first
To surviving primaries pro rata, then to surviving contingents pro rata.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke (agreement governed by Nebraska law)
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “One or more natural persons or entities can be designated to receive the securities in a TOD Account. If a trust is designated as a beneficiary, the designation must include the date of the trust agreement and the name of the trustee serving at the time of designation.” Page 3, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

Trust as contingent. “The Account Holder(s) may also designate one or more persons or entities to take the securities in the event the primary beneficiary dies.” Page 4, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

How to name the trust. “the designation must include the date of the trust agreement and the name of the trustee serving at the time of designation. A designation of a trustee of the trust shall be deemed to include any successor trustee.” Page 3, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

Per stirpes. “PER STIRPES” Page 1, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

A class like "my children". “An Account Holder cannot designate any person as a beneficiary unless such person is alive. For example, the beneficiary designation "the children of John Doe" is not effective.” Page 4, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “An Account Holder of a TOD Account can designate the custodian properly appointed under the Uniform Transfer to Minors Act ("UTMA") to receive securities for the benefit of a minor.” Page 4, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no primary or contingent beneficiary is living on the Date of Death, the TOD Account assets will be paid to the estate of the Account Holder.” Page 2, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Only beneficiaries living on the Date of Death are eligible to receive TOD Account assets. ... such eligible assets shall be distributed to the primary beneficiaries who survive the Account Holder in the same proportion that their original shares bear to each other” Page 2, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

Effect of divorce. “Changes in the relationship between the Account Holder and any other beneficiary, including but not limited to subsequent marriage, divorce, remarriage or adoption, will not automatically add or revoke designations of beneficiaries.” Page 2, revision 2025-05, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-15. Source document

Betterment

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Betterment investing and Cash Reserve accounts (beneficiary designation).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Allowed but not recommended; court-appointed custodian or guardian before payout.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Online designation
Available. Online, per account, primary and contingent.
How to submit
Online only.
In the institution’s own words

Minor as beneficiary. “If a minor should be appointed as a beneficiary of an account, Betterment may require court-appointed custodial documentation or an official guardian for the minor beneficiary prior to any funds being transferred.” Web page, revision 2021-07-15. Source document

Online designation. “Once here, you can enter your primary and contingent beneficiary information for each account.” Web page, revision 2021-07-15. Source document

How to submit. “You understand that 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

Bank

Covers BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures); BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes (affiliate fund form, not a BNY Mellon, N.A. document)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Yes (secondary)
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trustee name and address plus trust name and date.
Per stirpes
Offered. A per stirpes box on each beneficiary and contingent line; the owner names a Responsible Individual.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Predeceased beneficiary's share to his or her heirs in equal parts; a named Responsible Individual (or else the executor) instructs Pershing on per stirpes questions and binds all beneficiaries.
Per capita
Offered. Default method unless per stirpes is checked; "per capita" here means a predeceased beneficiary's share lapses (not per capita at each generation)
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Custodian must be named; the owner cannot be custodian.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate if no beneficiary survives.
If a beneficiary dies first
Secondaries take only if no primary survives; fractional shares go to the first-named primary or secondary.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community or marital property states (AZ, CA, ID, NV, NM, TX, WA, WI)
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs on the form before a notary and waives community and marital property rights.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke, divorce has no effect until a new TOD agreement is received; Pershing need not follow a divorce agreement unless a court orders.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 secondary lines on the TOD form (8 lines on IM-BEN-0525); extra sheet allowed.
Online designation
Paper only. Online changes are for IRAs only; TOD by form.
How to submit
Mail (regular or overnight) to BNY Mellon Shareholder Services or BNY Mellon Institutional Department, Pittsburgh; a digital Beneficiary Designation Form is listed, signed by all registered owners.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “To name a trust as a primary or secondary beneficiary, write the name and address of the trustee, then give the name and date of the trust agreement.” Page 1, form ist-transfer-on-death-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

Trust as contingent. “To name a trust as a primary or secondary beneficiary, write the name and address of the trustee” Page 1, form ist-transfer-on-death-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

How to name the trust. “write the name and address of the trustee, then give the name and date of the trust agreement” Page 1, form ist-transfer-on-death-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

Per stirpes. “If your beneficiary designation is per stirpes, you understand ... I understand that if I choose per stirpes I will name a” Page 2, BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent). Source document

Per stirpes defined. “that if your beneficiary(ies) dies before you, the beneficiary's ... share of the account will pass to his or her respective heirs. ... the portion of the account designated for the deceased ... Beneficiary shall pass to his or her heirs in equal parts.” Page 2, BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent). Source document

Per capita. “will use the per capita method of beneficiary designation, ... in which a particular beneficiary's rights end with the death” Page 2, BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a beneficiary is a minor, you must designate a custodian and provide the minor's date of birth. ... Custodian, if beneficiary is a minor (account owner cannot be designated as the custodian)” Page 1, form im-ira-beneficiary-designation-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

Default beneficiary. “Beneficiary survives me, then the proceeds of my account ... shall pass to my estate” Page 2, BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Any secondary beneficiary you name will receive all or a portion of your account balance only if all primary beneficiaries pre-decease you. ... we will transfer ownership of your account to your contingent beneficiaries only if there are no surviving primary beneficiaries” Page 1, form ist-transfer-on-death-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married, reside in a community property or marital ... property state, and you designate someone other than your ... spouse as your Sole Beneficiary(ies), your spouse must sign” Page 2, BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent). Source document

How the spouse consents. “REQUIRED NOTARIZATION OF SPOUSE'S SIGNATURE” Page 2, BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent). Source document

Effect of divorce. “then the dissolution of our marriage shall have no effect on ... the designation of Beneficiary unless and until Pershing ... receives notice to the contrary by receipt of a new Transfer” Page 2, BNY Brokerage Account TOD (Individual and Joint Transfer on Death Account Agreements MBS-XTD-0726 and MBS-XJT-0726; BNY Brokerage Services, a division of BNY Mellon Securities Corporation; Pershing LLC clearing agent). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you wish to designate more than four primary or more than four secondary beneficiaries, please attached a separate sheet.” Page 1, form ist-transfer-on-death-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

Online designation. “For IRAs only, please note that beneficiaries can be added or changed by logging into your account online at www.bnyfunds.com.” Page 4, form im-ira-beneficiary-designation-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

How to submit. “Please mail this form to: BNY Mellon Shareholder Services ... Available Digital Forms ... Designate or change beneficiaries on your account(s) for IRAs or Non-IRAs Individual or Joint Tenant Transfer on Death (TOD) accounts. The form must be signed by all registered owners.” Page 1, form im-ira-beneficiary-designation-form, BNY mutual fund TOD registration (forms RET-TOD-0124, IST-TOD-0124, IM-BEN-0525 non-IRA part, IM-CARF-0525 application; BNY Mellon Securities Corporation distributor, BNY Mellon Transfer, Inc. transfer agent; Maryland Uniform TOD Act procedures). Source document

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

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Designated Beneficiary Plan; also Schwab Bank Investor Checking POD).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Full trust name.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Full trust name.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust name and trust date.
Per stirpes
Offered. Per stirpes or per capita, individuals only.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. One generation only; Schwab's own definition governs.
Per capita
Offered. One election per account; one generation only.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Named individuals only.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Not accepted. Designation only on Schwab's form (additional options at schwab.com/beneficiaries); a change made in a will or trust is not honored except under a court order.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Name a UTMA/UGMA custodian on the form.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. The estate may be named as a beneficiary (Estate relationship box); the estate also takes if no beneficiary survives.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
120-hour survival; proportional reallocation.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Owner's warranty only; no spouse signature.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke; a former spouse remains beneficiary until a new agreement is filed (Plan governed by California law; the Schwab Bank Investor Checking terms say the same under Nevada law)
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; attach a signed, dated sheet.
Online designation
Available. Online for additional options.
How to submit
Upload by secure message; fax; branch.
In the institution’s own words

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

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary ... 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. “You may select either a per stirpes distribution or a per capita distribution.” Page 1, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “Per stirpes and per capita distributions are limited to your named beneficiary's(ies') children and no further descendants.” Page 3, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

Per capita. “Please select either a per stirpes or a per capita distribution option. Only one option may be selected per account.” Page 3, form APP12461-16, revision 2026-07. Source document

A class like "my children". “changed or cancelled by 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 same” Page 9, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Custom designation. “You must designate your beneficiaries in ... writing on the form provided. ... Schwab will not honor any change of beneficiary made in a will or trust” Page 12, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Directions for Distribution(s) of Assets to Minor Beneficiaries ... the assets shall be transferred under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act ("UTMA") or the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act ("UGMA")” Page 10, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Relationship (Select only one.) ... Other Individual Trust Organization Estate” Page 4, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. 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 to my estate.” Page 3, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “the remaining portion will be divided proportionately among any surviving Contingent Beneficiaries. Any beneficiary who does not survive me by 120 hours will be considered to have passed away before me.” Page 3, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. 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.” Page 1, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Effect of divorce. “subsequent marriage, dissolution of marriage, remarriage, or adoption, will ... not automatically add or revoke designations of beneficiaries ... the former spouse will remain a beneficiary after the” Page 13, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. 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 this” Page 7, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Online designation. “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

City National Bank

Bank

Covers RBC Securities (City National subsidiary) brokerage account, TOD registration.

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Offered. Per Stirpes box per beneficiary (RBC Securities, Inc., City National subsidiary; NFS clearing)
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Predeceased beneficiary's share to descendants as state law determines.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Without per stirpes, equally to surviving primaries; no primary alive, contingents; no percentages, equal shares to surviving beneficiaries.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
How to submit
Beneficiary Designation form; channel not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Per stirpes. “By checking the Per Stirpes box associated with a given beneficiary, you are agreeing that if that beneficiary predeceases you, his or her share of the account will pass through to his or her descendants as determined by state law.” Page 12, revision 2026-05. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “if that beneficiary predeceases you, his or her share of the account will pass through to his or her descendants as determined by state law.” Page 12, revision 2026-05. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a percentage is indicated for a primary beneficiary who does not survive you, and if you have not checked the Per Stirpes box, the percentage of that beneficiary's designated share will be divided equally among the surviving primary beneficiaries. If there is no primary beneficiary living at the time of your death, you hereby specify that the balance is to be distributed to the contingent beneficiary or beneficiaries listed.” Page 12, revision 2026-05. Source document

How to submit. “You can change your beneficiary designation at any time by filling out a new Beneficiary Designation form. We will rely on the latest Beneficiary Designation in our possession.” Page 12, revision 2026-05. Source document

E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (individual or JTWROS).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust name, not trustee.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Primary or contingent entity.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date of trust; trustee is not to be named.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate if no primary or contingent survives (overrides earlier "not stated")
If a beneficiary dies first
Contingents if no primary survives; simultaneous death, contingents, else estate; share of one predeceased primary among several not stated.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property states only.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 8 lines; attach additional Section 2 pages without stated limit.
Online designation
Available. Online for individual accounts only; joint (JTWROS) accounts need the paper form signed by both owners; not for community property residents naming a non-spouse.
Electronic signature
Accepted. Online, or DocuSign (forms library)
How to submit
Online (individual accounts); fax; mail; upload; DocuSign.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “(For trust, provide trust name, not trustee) BIRTH DATE (or date of trust)” Page 2, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Spouse Primary Non-spouse Contingent ... Entity” Page 3, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

How to name the trust. “(For trust, provide trust name, not trustee) BIRTH DATE (or date of trust)” Page 2, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

Default beneficiary. “It shall always be that case that if no primary or contingent beneficiary survives the Account Holder, the Account assets will be paid by default to the Account Holder's estate.” Page 4, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If no primary beneficiary survives all account holders of the Account, assets will be distributed to the contingent beneficiary(ies) listed below. ... In the event an Account Holder and beneficiary shall decease in such a way as it cannot be determined who the survivor was, the Account's assets shall be distributed to any contingent beneficiaries named or in the absence of such, to the Account Holder's estate.” Page 2, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

Spousal consent. “SPOUSAL WAIVER If you are a married resident of a community property state (AZ, CA, ID, LA, NV, NM, TX, WA, WI, GU and PR), and are not naming your spouse as 100% primary beneficiary, YOU MUST COMPLETE THIS SECTION.” Page 3, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you would like to designate more beneficiaries than fields above allow, attach additional Section 2 pages and return with a completed form.” Page 3, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

Online designation. “Can I add a beneficiary to a joint account through the online process? No, a beneficiary (or beneficiaries) can only be added to an individual account through the online process.” Page 1, revision 2026-04. Source document

Electronic signature. “Transfer on Death Registration Request and Agreement Designate beneficiaries to receive your account in the event of your death Submit online / Download PDF / Submit via Docusign” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “Sign and date your form and fax, mail or upload it to the below ... For individual account holders living in the US, you may view/update your beneficiaries online via etrade.com.” Page 1, form 0825-NONIRATOD-B69044, revision 08/25. Source document

Edward Jones

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Edward Jones Transfer on Death Agreement, Missouri Non-probate Transfer Law).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. A living trust can be a beneficiary (implied by the TIN rule)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Contingent beneficiaries allowed (trust as contingent not addressed separately)
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. LDPS refused.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "Lineal Descendants per Stirpes"
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Custodian may be named; if none, Missouri or other UTMA custodian or guardian; after 90 days may pay the minor directly.
Default beneficiary
Owner's probate estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To the contingent(s) named for that primary; 120-hour survival; a beneficiary who does not claim within one year is treated as not surviving.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property jurisdiction during the marriage and spouse not sole joint owner or sole primary; otherwise the TOD is void.
How the spouse consents
Spousal Consent Form OPR-8326A signed by the spouse before a witness; revocable by the spouse before the owner's death.
Effect of divorce
Revokes; former spouse treated as predeceased.
How to submit
Delivered or mailed to a branch office; accepted at the St. Louis home office.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Account Owner must indicate a tax identification number issued ... Form in order for the designation to be valid, except when a tax ... Account Owner's living trust is using the Account Owner's Social ... Security Number for income tax reporting during the lifetime of” Page 2, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

Trust as contingent. “The terms Beneficiary and Beneficiaries as used in this Agreement ... include Primary Beneficiaries and Contingent Beneficiaries.” Page 2, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

A class like "my children". “Lineal Descendants per Stirpes is not a valid method of ... designating Beneficiaries under this Agreement.” Page 2, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

Refused wording. “Lineal Descendants per Stirpes is not a valid method of ... designating Beneficiaries under this Agreement.” Page 2, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If an Account Owner designates a minor child without indicating a ... custodian as a Beneficiary, Edward Jones may transfer eligible ... assets to a custodian for the minor child under the Missouri” Page 3, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no Beneficiary survives the Account Owner, the probate estate ... of the Account Owner shall be the successor in interest of the” Page 2, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “In the event any designated Primary Beneficiary does not survive ... the Account Owner, then that Primary Beneficiary's allocated ... portion of the eligible assets in the Account shall pass to the ... corresponding Contingent Beneficiary(ies) listed on the ... transfer unless the Beneficiary survives the Account Owner by” Page 2, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

Spousal consent. “If all conditions (a) through (c) below are met at the time of the ... Account Owner's death, the TOD features shall be void unless a ... Spousal Consent Form is received by Edward Jones and is not” Page 1, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Any Spousal Consent may be revoked by the Account Owner's ... Spouse by signing and delivering to Edward Jones a Revocation ... 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

Effect of divorce. “A dissolution of marriage automatically revokes a designation of ... a former spouse of the Account Owner as a Beneficiary of the” Page 3, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

How to submit. “date that the Beneficiary Form is delivered or mailed to an ... Edward Jones branch office and the date it is accepted by Edward” Page 1, form LGL-9787-A-A1, revision 2016-02. Source document

Fidelity Investments (Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (individual, JTWROS, tenants by the entirety).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust checkbox per beneficiary.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trust checkbox per beneficiary.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date and TIN; no trustee name asked.
Per stirpes
Offered. Checkbox per beneficiary.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Right of representation, with a worked allocation rule.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Only named beneficiaries (plus per stirpes descendants of a named beneficiary) take.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Fidelity chooses parent, guardian, existing UTMA account.
Default beneficiary
Assets not covered by TOD go to the owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Lapsed share to surviving primaries pro rata, then contingents; estate if none.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke; former spouse remains unless a new form is filed (agreement governed by Massachusetts law)
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; copy the page for more.
Online designation
Available. Online or paper.
How to submit
Online; upload; mail.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Primary Beneficiaries For each beneficiary you list, check a beneficiary type ... Non-Spouse Trust Social Security or Taxpayer ID Number” Page 2, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent beneficiaries receive assets only if no primary beneficiary survives you. ... Non-Spouse Trust Social Security or Taxpayer ID Number” Page 2, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

How to name the trust. “Non-Spouse Trust Social Security or Taxpayer ID Number Date of Birth/Trust MM DD YYYY” Page 2, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. 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 2, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “The term "per stirpes" means that if any primary or contingent beneficiary dies before the account holder but has surviving descendants, that beneficiary's share is paid to such surviving descendants by right of representation. ... Each living child is allocated one share. The share of each deceased child with living descendants is allocated one share, which is divided equally among such living descendants. This subdivision is repeated at each succeeding generation” Page 4, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

A class like "my children". “only named beneficiaries will share in the Account assets, and ... others who may be in the same group of descendants as named ... individuals (e.g., other children or grandchildren) but who are not ... named will not share in the Account assets” Page 4, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a beneficiary is a minor or otherwise under a legal disability, Fidelity may, in its absolute discretion, make all, or any part of the distribution for such beneficiary to: (1) a parent of such beneficiary; (2) the guardian, conservator, or other legal representative, wherever appointed, of such beneficiary; (3) an existing custodial account established for such beneficiary under a Uniform Transfers to Minors Act” Page 5, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Default beneficiary. “the ineligible assets will be paid to the estate of the account holder” Page 4, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “or because one or more beneficiaries is deceased on the Date of ... Death, such eligible assets shall be distributed to the primary ... who survive the account holder in the same proportion that ... their original shares bear to each other” Page 4, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Effect of divorce. “sequent marriage, dissolution of marriage, remarriage or adoption, ... will not automatically add or revoke designations of beneficiaries. ... For example, if a former spouse was a designated beneficiary prior ... to dissolution of the marriage, the former spouse would remain a ... beneficiary after the dissolution unless his or her designation as” Page 5, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you need more room for information or ... signatures, make a copy of the relevant page.” Page 1, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Online designation. “You can change beneficiaries any time at Fidelity.com/beneficiary.” Page 1, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

How to submit. “For faster processing, complete, sign, and submit using the ... Scan the QR code OR go to Fidelity.com/upload-Bene ... You can change beneficiaries any time at” Page 1, form 1.925788.107, revision 2025-04. Source document

Firstrade Securities

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust name, all trustees, date.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Same.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name, names of all trustees and date established.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No fractions or dollar amounts.
Default beneficiary
Passes as if no TOD registration (owner's estate or surviving joint owner)
If a beneficiary dies first
Pro rata to surviving primaries; same rule for contingents.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community or marital property states.
Online designation
Paper only. Paper TOD form, returned by upload; no online entry described.
How to submit
Upload (Secure Document Upload)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If Beneficiary is a Trust: Provide Name of Trust, names of all trustees, and date established” Page 2, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Trust as contingent. “CONTINGENT BENEFICIARY(S) If Beneficiary is a Trust: Provide Name of Trust, names of all trustees, and date established” Page 3, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

How to name the trust. “If Beneficiary is a Trust: Provide Name of Trust, names of all trustees, and date established” Page 2, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Refused wording. “Share totals must equal 100%. Fractional percentages or dollar amounts are not accepted.” Page 2, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If none of the Primary or Contingent beneficiaries I (We) have designated survives me (us), any interest I (We) may have in this account shall pass as if my (our) Transfer on Death instructions did not exist.” Page 4, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “In the event of the death of one or more designated Primary Beneficiary(s) precedes my (our) death, the interest they would have received from this account will be paid, upon my (our) death, to my (our) surviving Primary Beneficiary(s) Pro Rata” Page 4, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Spousal consent. “spouse is not an account holder, or named as the sole primary beneficiary. By signing, spouse voluntarily and irrevocably consents to the beneficiary designation” Page 5, form 69448P-UTOD, revision 2026-01-30. Source document

Online designation. “Beneficiaries can be added using the Transfer On Death form. Please complete and return the form to us via Secure Document Upload” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “Please complete and return the form to us via Secure Document Upload” Web page. Source document

Franklin Templeton (incl. Putnam IRAs)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law); Franklin Templeton mutual fund TOD (Franklin Templeton Investor Services transfer agent).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trusts and entities (U.S. only)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Entity/trust on contingent lines.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust name and trust date; no trustee name.
Trust documents
Requested. At claim, certified copy or excerpt (first page, signature page, trustee page)
Per stirpes
Not offered. Refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary identified individually.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "per stirpes" and multi-contingency designations refused.
Custom designation
Not accepted. Refused.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian and donor state per minor; UGMA refused; otherwise court guardianship.
Default beneficiary
Last surviving owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To surviving primaries proportionally; then contingents; a beneficiary dying before transfer, to that beneficiary's estate.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke; the owner must change it.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Separate sheet for more than five of each.
Online designation
Paper only. Paper form only, signed by all living owners.
Notary or medallion
Required. Signature or medallion guarantee for changes and for a new TOD by transfer.
Electronic signature
Wet signature required. Original signatures and guarantees.
How to submit
Mail or express delivery to Putnam Investments.
How to disclaim
Described. Signed written notice with signature guarantee before transfer; disclaimant treated as predeceased.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Except as otherwise provided herein, any individual and any trust, corporation, partnership, or other entity may be designated as a beneficiary under a TOD registration.” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Trust as contingent. “Section 3C - Contingent beneficiary(ies) ... Full name of entity/trust (required)” Page 3, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

How to name the trust. “Full name of entity/trust (required) ... Date of trust (mm/dd/yyyy; required for a trust)” Page 3, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Trust documents. “A certified copy or excerpt of the trust must be provided (original certification within 120 days); the document must include the first page, signature page, and the page naming the trustees and successor trustees.” Page 1, form FM532, revision 2025-01, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Per stirpes. “Putnam will not accept customized beneficiary designations (for example, designations which involve multiple contingencies within a primary or contingent beneficiary category) or "per stirpes" designations.” Page 1, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

A class like "my children". “All beneficiaries must be designated as either primary or contingent and must include all identifying informa” Page 1, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Refused wording. “Putnam will not accept customized beneficiary designations ... or "per stirpes" designations.” Page 1, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Custom designation. “Putnam will not accept customized beneficiary designations” Page 1, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Account owners seeking to designate a minor as a beneficiary may specify a custodian for the minor under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act ... (designations of custodians under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act of any state will not be accepted). If no custodian is specified for a minor under the UTMA, PSERV will require formal letters of conservatorship/guardianship issued by a court” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no primary beneficiary or contingent beneficiary survives the last surviving account owner, the account assets will be transferred as if the account were not subject to TOD registration (usually, to the last surviving account owner's estate).” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary does not survive the last surviving account owner, the share specified for that beneficiary will be transferred to the primary beneficiary(ies) who do survive the last surviving account owner, in the proportions that their shares bear to one another ... Account assets transferable to a beneficiary who dies after the last surviving account owner but before the assets are actually transferred will be transferred to the beneficiary's estate.” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Effect of divorce. “TOD registration is not automatically initiated, changed, or revoked in any way by the marriage, divorce, separation, or remarriage of any party” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you wish to designate more than five primary beneficiaries and/or more than five contingent beneficiaries, you must include a separate sheet of paper with the additional designation.” Page 1, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Online designation. “TOD registration may be initiated, changed, or revoked only by completion of a Putnam TOD Registration Form signed by all living account owners.” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Notary or medallion. “If the new TOD account is being established by a transfer from an existing Putnam account, or the beneficiary of an existing TOD account is being changed, each signature in Section 5 must be authenticated with a Signature Guarantee or Medallion Guarantee stamp.” Page 1, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Electronic signature. “While photocopies and facsimiles of the form are acceptable, all signatures and signature guarantees must be original.” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

How to submit. “A Putnam TOD Registration Form and any accompanying certificates or documentation should be mailed to the address indicated on the Putnam TOD Registration Form.” Page 6, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

How to disclaim. “A beneficiary may disclaim all interest in all or a portion of account assets transferable to the beneficiary pursuant to a TOD registration, by written notice signed by the beneficiary with a signature guarantee and received by PSERV before the disclaimed account assets have been transferred to and accepted by the beneficiary.” Page 7, form FM523C, revision 2025-02, Putnam mutual fund non-retirement TOD (Putnam Investor Services transfer agent; Massachusetts law). Source document

Interactive Brokers

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Interactive Brokers, online Account Inheritance).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust allowed (Legal Entity type)
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Any beneficiary may be contingent.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Only with a named custodian, trustee or guardian.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Owner chooses pro rata to remaining primaries (default) or straight to contingents, then estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property states.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. Up to six primary; contingents not limited.
Online designation
Available. Online, then a signed TOD Agreement.
How to submit
Online registration plus a printed, signed TOD Agreement sent to IB; a new signed agreement for every change.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Your beneficiary (or beneficiaries) can be a natural person or other entity, such as a trust, corporation or guardianship.” Web page. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Select the association type (Primary Beneficiary or Contingent Beneficiary).” Web page. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Minors can be beneficiaries only if a custodian, trustee, or guardian is named for them.” Web page. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Pass to any remaining Primary Beneficiary(ies) pro rata, and if none remain, pass to any Contingent Beneficiaries (default selection). Pass directly to any Contingent Beneficiaries and, if none remain, pass to the estate of the (last surviving) Account Owner” Web page. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married and reside in a community property state, you must obtain your spouse's consent if you are not naming your spouse as the sole primary beneficiary.” Web page. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You must designate at least one and up to six Primary beneficiaries, and can designate one or more optional contingent or Secondary beneficiaries.” Web page. Source document

Online designation. “In the Client Portal, use the Account Inheritance page to register one or more beneficiaries” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “Click the Transfer on Death Agreement link. A pre-populated form displays. Read the agreement carefully, then print the form, sign it and send it to us.” Web page. Source document

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing and J.P. Morgan Private Client / Wealth Management)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (J.P. Morgan Securities).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Any person or entity (trusts included) except a UGMA custodian.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Any beneficiary may be primary or contingent.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Offered. Per stirpes box per beneficiary.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian may be named (UGMA custodian may not); a minor's share may be paid to a guardian, conservator or custodian.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate if all beneficiaries predecease.
If a beneficiary dies first
Without per stirpes, a predeceased beneficiary's share goes to surviving beneficiaries pro rata.
Spousal consent
Not required. JPMS does not obtain spousal consent.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 10 primary and 10 contingent lines; extra copies allowed.
Online designation
Available. Online, or paper form.
Notary or medallion
Required. Owner's signature notarized.
How to submit
Online; email (per chase.com/brokerageforms); mail; through the advisor.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Any person or entity except a custodian ... (or if a trust or other legal entity which is a ... Beneficiary has dissolved or terminated)” Page 6. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Beneficiary Type (select one) Primary Contingent” Page 1. Source document

Per stirpes. “Beneficiary Type (select one) Primary Contingent Per Stirpes” Page 1. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (but not excluding a custodian under the ... of the Account Holder's death is a minor or an incapacitated adult who is” Page 6. Source document

Default beneficiary. “presents evidence that all Beneficiaries have ... predeceased the Account Holder, the account assets will be distributed to the” Page 6. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Beneficiary has dissolved or terminated), and the Account Holder has not selected ... assets will be distributed among the surviving Beneficiaries in proportion to each of” Page 6. Source document

Spousal consent. “interests of spouses or domestic partners, nor to obtain any spousal consent to” Page 6. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you require more than ten primary or contingent beneficiaries, please submit an additional copy of page 2 or 3 of this form.” Page 1. Source document

Online designation. “Transfer on Death Agreement Set up or update Transfer on Death (TOD) beneficiary designation(s) for your non-retirement investment account. Update online” Web page. Source document

Notary or medallion. “Notary - section must be completed by a Notary Public” Page 4. Source document

How to submit. “After you complete, review and sign this form, provide it to your advisor for processing. ... Email - Please visit for in www.Chase.com/brokerageforms instructions on how to submit this completed document and any ... Regular or Overnight Mail - Send the form and any attachments to:” Page 1. Source document

Janney Montgomery Scott

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Pennsylvania TOD Security Registration Act).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Offered. Per stirpes allowed.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Predeceased or disclaiming beneficiary's descendants per stirpes.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Accepted. New TOD application or other written form acceptable to Janney.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. PA UTMA custodian; Janney will not appoint one.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To contingents; never to a predeceased beneficiary's estate.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke; ex-spouse stays beneficiary until a new TOD application or written cancellation.
How to submit
To the Janney financial consultant.
In the institution’s own words

Per stirpes. “The designation of per stirpes and other contingent beneficiaries is permissible.” Page 2, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “If any of the beneficiaries should predecease the account owner or disclaim their interest, then the account owner's TOD Account may pass to the beneficiaries' descendants per stirpes if the account is designated as such.” Page 2, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

Custom designation. “Changes or modifications to beneficiary designations must be made on a new TOD Application or other written form acceptable to Janney.” Page 3, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “account owner authorizes Janney to register the share of any minor for transfer in the name of the appointed custodian under the Pennsylvania Uniform Transfers To Minors Act” Page 2, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no beneficiary survives the account owner, no contingent or per stirpes beneficiaries are named, and/or all beneficiaries disclaim their interest in the TOD account, then the proceeds of the account owner's TOD Account shall pass to the account owner's estate.” Page 2, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If the account is not to be distributed per stirpes and the account owner designates contingent beneficiaries, Janney will divide and register the pre-deceased beneficiary's percentage among the contingent beneficiaries ... A predeceased beneficiary's estate shall have no claim or interest in the account owner's TOD Account.” Page 2, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

Effect of divorce. “If any beneficiary hereunder is or becomes married to the account owner, then the dissolution of the account owner's marriage to that beneficiary shall have no effect on the designation of beneficiaries unless and until Janney receives notice to the contrary” Page 2, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

How to submit. “Please return the signed form to your Janney financial consultant.” Page 1, form Digital TOD Terms & Conditions, revision 10/9/2018. Source document

Kingdom Trust Company

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Non-IRA custodial account (individual, joint, trust or business), beneficiary designation.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. A trust may be named.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Trust documents
Requested. Copy of the trust agreement with the form.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Lapsed share (incl. the beneficiary's heirs) goes pro rata to surviving beneficiaries.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property states (nine listed)
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs on the application; later marriage requires a new form with consent; no notary stated.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If the named beneficiary is a trust, you must provide a copy of the trust agreement to Kingdom Trust.” Page 7, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2021-01-20. Source document

Trust documents. “If the named beneficiary is a trust, you must submit a copy of the trust with this completed and signed form.” Page 7, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2021-01-20. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any primary or contingent beneficiary does not survive you, such beneficiary's interest and the interest of such beneficiary's heirs shall terminate completely, and the applicable share for any remaining primary or contingent beneficiary(ies) shall be increased on a pro rata basis.” Page 7, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2021-01-20. Source document

Spousal consent. “Consent of the Applicant's spouse is only required for married account holders living in a community property state who designate a beneficiary other than or in addition to” Page 7, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2021-01-20. Source document

How the spouse consents. “your spouse is required to sign below to ensure your designation will be effective ... you are required to complete a beneficiary change form with spousal consent” Page 7, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2021-01-20. Source document

M1 Finance

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Individual and joint brokerage and High-Yield Cash Account TOD.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust by paper form only, not online.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Whole percentages only.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. 3 primary and 3 contingent per account.
Online designation
Available. Web for individuals; trusts need the paper form; not in the mobile app.
How to submit
Online (web platform only); M1 Beneficiary Form for trusts or account-specific designations.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “You can add up to three primary and three contingent beneficiaries per account, including trusts. To name a trust as beneficiary, provide the trust's legal name and Tax ID as required on the form.” Web page. Source document

Trust as contingent. “You can add up to three primary and three contingent beneficiaries per account, including trusts.” Web page. Source document

Refused wording. “whole numbers only (e.g., 50/50 or 33/33/34)” Web page. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You may designate up to three primary and three contingent beneficiaries per account when using the M1 Beneficiary Form.” Web page. Source document

Online designation. “Log in to M1 on the web. Navigate to Profile > Beneficiaries in your account settings. Click Add Beneficiary . ... If you want separate beneficiaries for each account or wish to designate a trust, complete the M1 Beneficiary Form and submit as instructed.” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “Log in to M1 on the web. Navigate to Profile > Beneficiaries in your account settings. ... If you want separate beneficiaries for each account or wish to designate a trust, complete the M1 Beneficiary Form and submit as instructed.” Web page. Source document

Merrill Lynch (Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and Merrill Edge)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (MLPF&S TOD Agreement).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust allowed; list all current trustees.
Trust as contingent
Not allowed. No contingent beneficiaries at all.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Names of all current trustees and trust creation date; testamentary trusts cannot be named.
Per stirpes
Not offered. Per stirpes refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. LDPS and any class or contingent wording refused; each beneficiary is listed by name.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "lineal descendants per stirpes" and any added contingent or successor language refused.
Custom designation
Not accepted. Amendments not honored; an agent under a POA or a guardian cannot sign or change the TOD without a court order.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian or court-appointed guardian must be named.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Owner chooses, survivors pro rata or owner's estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Owner and spouse live or lived outside the US or in a community property state during the marriage, and spouse is not sole beneficiary.
How the spouse consents
Notarized spouse signature; spouse may revoke in writing before the owner's death, then a new agreement is needed.
How to submit
Not stated.
How to disclaim
Described. Disclaimer meeting state law delivered to Merrill; share passes to remaining beneficiaries, or to the owner's estate if only one beneficiary.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you name a trust as Beneficiary for the Account, please list the names of all of the current Trustee(s) of the trust.” Page 2, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Trust as contingent. “The MLPF&S TOD Account does not provide for contingent or successor Beneficiaries.” Page 3, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

How to name the trust. “Name of all current Trustees and dates of trust creation (if Beneficiary is a Trust)” Page 1, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Per stirpes. “MLPF&S will not honor any attempt to alter or amend this Agreement to provide for contingent or successor Beneficiaries, including any designation of "lineal descendants per stirpes."” Page 3, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

A class like "my children". “MLPF&S will not honor any attempt to alter or amend this Agreement to provide for contingent or successor Beneficiaries, including any designation of "lineal descendants per stirpes."” Page 3, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Refused wording. “MLPF&S will not honor any attempt to alter or amend this Agreement to provide for contingent or successor Beneficiaries, including any designation of "lineal descendants per stirpes."” Page 3, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Custom designation. “MLPF&S will not honor any attempt to alter or amend this Agreement ... THIS TOD AGREEMENT MAY NOT BE EXECUTED BY AN AGENT UNDER A POWER OF ATTORNEY. ... shall not have the authority ... to enter into, alter or revoke the Agreement and designation of ... Beneficiaries, except by obtaining an authorizing order from a” Page 3, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a Beneficiary is a minor on the date the Account Owner signs this Agreement, the Account Owner must designate a courtappointed guardian or a custodian under the Uniform Transfer to Minors Act ("UTMA") or similar act, to receive such Beneficiary's share of the TOD Assets.” Page 5, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Default beneficiary. “the percentage of the TOD Assets designated for a deceased Beneficiary shall pass to the estate of the Account Owner.” Page 3, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “the percentage of the TOD Assets designated for a deceased Beneficiary shall pass to the estate of the Account Owner. ... Pass to estate of the Account Owner” Page 3, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Spousal consent. “The Spousal Consent Section must be completed if ALL of the following conditions are met: (I) the Account Owner has a living spouse and the spouse is not an Account Owner;” Page 4, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Spousal consent: If conditions I, II, and III are met, the notarized signature, name and address of spouse are required ... Spouse must execute his/her signature and date document in the presence of a notary” Page 1, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

How to disclaim. “If a Beneficiary disclaims his or her portion of TOD Assets, the ... disclaimer, which must meet appropriate state law requirements, ... must be provided to MLPF&S and the disclaiming Beneficiary's” Page 8, form SHEET-06-17-0754, revision 2025-03. Source document

Pershing LLC (BNY Pershing)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Pershing LLC as clearing agent; Individual and Joint TOD Account Agreements as used by BNY Brokerage Services).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Offered. Per stirpes box on each beneficiary and contingent line; a named Responsible Individual (else the executor) tells Pershing who takes.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Predeceased beneficiary's share to his or her heirs in equal parts.
Per capita
Offered. Per capita is the default (Pershing's meaning, a predeceased beneficiary's rights end) unless per stirpes is checked.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Custodial, fiduciary or guardianship account on documentation; Pershing has no duty to appoint a custodian.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate (joint form, surviving joint tenant's estate)
If a beneficiary dies first
Each beneficiary's own contingent steps in; otherwise to surviving beneficiaries; a predeceased beneficiary's estate has no claim.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community or marital property states (AZ, CA, ID, NV, NM, TX, WA, WI)
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs a consent and waiver on the form; notarized.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke; a new TOD agreement or a court order is needed (agreement governed by New York law; New Jersey law if the owner's state has no TOD statute)
How to submit
Mail (regular, or registered/certified/overnight) to BNY Brokerage Services.
In the institution’s own words

Per stirpes. “If your beneficiary designation is per stirpes, you understand that if your beneficiary(ies) dies before you, the beneficiary's ... share of the account will pass to his or her respective heirs.” Page 2. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “If I choose per stirpes, and the ... Beneficiary and Contingent Beneficiary predecease me, ... the portion of the account designated for the deceased ... Beneficiary shall pass to his or her heirs in equal parts.” Page 2. Source document

Per capita. “will use the "per capita" method of beneficiary designation, ... in which a particular beneficiary's rights end with the death ... of that Beneficiary and Contingent Beneficiary unless I” Page 2. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If any Beneficiary is a minor in the relevant jurisdiction at ... the time of Pershing's receipt of notice of my death, and ... Pershing is notified of such fact, that Beneficiary's shares ... shall be transferred to a custodial account or other fiduciary ... or guardianship account” Page 2. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no ... Beneficiary survives me, then the proceeds of my account ... shall pass to my estate.” Page 2. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any of the Beneficiaries should predecease me, then my ... account will pass to the surviving Beneficiary or Beneficiaries. ... Each Contingent Beneficiary listed below a beneficiary shall ... be treated as Beneficiary in the event that the Beneficiary” Page 1. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married, reside in a community property or marital ... property state, and you designate someone other than your ... spouse as your Sole Beneficiary(ies), your spouse must sign” Page 2. Source document

How the spouse consents. “REQUIRED NOTARIZATION OF SPOUSE'S SIGNATURE” Page 2. Source document

Effect of divorce. “then the dissolution of our marriage shall have no effect on ... the designation of Beneficiary unless and until Pershing ... receives notice to the contrary by receipt of a new Transfer ... Pershing shall not be ... obligated to change a beneficiary designation by the ... provisions of a Divorce Agreement, except where ordered by” Page 2. Source document

How to submit. “Please mail this completed form to: ... BNY Brokerage Services ... PO Box 958408” Page 1. Source document

Provident Trust Group

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Non-retirement custodial account, payable on death.

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Default beneficiary
Estate of last surviving owner.
If a beneficiary dies first
Pro rata to surviving POD beneficiaries; contingents take if all primaries predecease.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community or marital property states (10 listed)
How the spouse consents
Spouse's signature notarized; signature guarantee not accepted.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 lines; addendums allowed.
How to submit
Mail; email; fax.
In the institution’s own words

Default beneficiary. “If no beneficiaries are named, the estate of the last surviving account owner will be the POD beneficiary of this account.” Page 1, revision 2020-06, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-06-30. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “The interest of any POD beneficiary that predeceases the last surviving account owner terminates immediately, and the percentage share of any remaining POD beneficiaries will be increased on a pro rata basis.” Page 1, revision 2020-06, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-06-30. Source document

Spousal consent. “Complete this section if you are married, have not named your spouse as your sole primary beneficiary, and are subject to the laws of the following community or marital property states: AK, AZ, CA, ID, LA, NV, NM, TX, WA, or WI.” Page 2, revision 2020-06, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-06-30. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Your signature must be notarized. See below. We cannot accept a signature guarantee in place of a notary's seal.” Page 2, revision 2020-06, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-06-30. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Check here if additional Beneficiaries are listed on the attached form. If applicable, total number of addendums attached to this POD” Page 2, revision 2020-06, 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 2015-04, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2024-07-15. Source document

Public.com (Public Investing)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD.

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
Not stated.
Online designation
Paper only. TOD only by contacting Support.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Online designation. “For non-retirement brokerage accounts, adding a beneficiary directly through the app is not currently available. However, a Transfer On Death (TOD) registration can be added to your account manually by contacting our Support team.” Web page. Source document

Robert W. Baird & Co. (Baird Funds direct IRAs and TOD accounts)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Baird Funds TOD registration (Uniform TOD Security Registration Act).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not offered. LD and LDPS refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Named individuals only.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. LD / LDPS refused.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian (not UGMA) named at registration.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Proportional to survivors.
Spousal consent
Not required. No spousal consent for TOD.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. 9 per account; split into separate accounts for more.
How to submit
In writing; mail or overnight mail.
In the institution’s own words

Per stirpes. “No designation such as Lineal Descendants (LD) or Lineal Descendants Per Stirpes (LDPS) is permitted.” Page 3, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

A class like "my children". “No designation such as Lineal Descendants (LD) or Lineal Descendants Per Stirpes (LDPS) is permitted. ... All beneficiaries must be named, as the Custodian cannot properly determine beneficiaries such as "children" or "spouse".” Page 1, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

Refused wording. “No designation such as Lineal Descendants (LD) or Lineal Descendants Per Stirpes (LDPS) is permitted.” Page 3, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If an intended beneficiary is a minor, a guardian or custodian must be designated upon registration of the account. Minors are permitted to be designated as TOD beneficiaries under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act but are not permitted to be designated as TOD beneficiaries under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act.” Page 3, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no beneficiary survives the owner, the account will be treated as belonging to the owner's estate at the owner's death.” Page 3, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “if one or more but not all fail to survive the owner, the shares will, upon the owner's death, be distributed among the remaining beneficiaries in proportion to their allotted portions of the account assets.” Page 3, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

Spousal consent. “Spousal Consent (IRA Accounts Only) ... If an account owner is married and the spouse is not the sole designated beneficiary, neither the fund nor the fund's transfer agent have any obligation to determine an account owner's marital status” Page 2, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Up to nine beneficiaries may be designated. (If an owner wishes to designate more than nine beneficiaries, the owner may split the investment into separate accounts and designate up to nine beneficiaries for each account.)” Page 3, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

How to submit. “retain the right to revoke this designation and designate a new beneficiary at any time by communicating to U. S. Bank Global Fund Services, in writing.” Page 2, form ZZ-BEN-DES, revision 2025-05. Source document

Robinhood (Robinhood Securities, LLC custodian)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Robinhood individual brokerage account).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Yes, if valid and trustee authorized to receive.
Trust as contingent
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date required; no trustee name.
Trust documents
Requested. Trust copy or certification of trust, by the owner or (after death) the trustee; evidence of trustee authority may be required.
Per stirpes
Not offered. Refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Only named beneficiaries.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Per stirpes refused.
Custom designation
Not accepted. In-app named beneficiaries only.
Minor as beneficiary
Not allowed. Beneficiaries must be 18 or older and U.S. citizens; a minor is treated as predeceased.
Estate as beneficiary
Not allowed. No estates or charities (estate takes by default)
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To surviving primaries, then contingents; ineligible and disclaiming beneficiaries treated as predeceased.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property, owner warrants consent; app may prompt a spousal consent agreement.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. 10 contingents per account; primary limit for TOD not stated.
Online designation
Available. In-app only.
How to submit
In-app only.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “A trust may be designated as a Beneficiary if (i) the trust is valid under applicable state law, (ii) the trustee is authorized to receive distributions on behalf of the trust” Page 2. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent beneficiaries can be individuals or trusts, and require the same information as primary beneficiaries of the same type.” Web page. Source document

How to name the trust. “If the Beneficiary is a trust, the Account Owner must provide the trust's name, date, and Tax Identification Number.” Page 2. Source document

Trust documents. “provides Robinhood with a copy of the trust instrument or a certification of trust acceptable to Robinhood, together with the trust's Tax Identification Number” Page 2. Source document

Per stirpes. “Only Beneficiaries identified by name will share in the Account Assets. Per stirpes distributions are not permitted.” Page 3. Source document

A class like "my children". “Only Beneficiaries identified by name will share in the Account Assets. Per stirpes distributions are not permitted.” Page 3. Source document

Refused wording. “Per stirpes distributions are not permitted.” Page 3. Source document

Custom designation. “Only Beneficiaries identified by name will share in the Account Assets.” Page 3. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a Beneficiary is a minor upon the death of the Account Owner, Robinhood will treat the minor as though they predeceased the Account Owner” Page 3. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Robinhood does not support estates or charitable organizations as Beneficiaries.” Page 2. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no Primary or Contingent Beneficiary survives the Account Owner or is eligible, the Account Assets become part of the Account Owner's Estate.” Page 3. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “the predeceased Primary Beneficiary's share of the Account Assets shall be equally divided among the surviving Primary Beneficiaries (or allocated in proportion to the percentages designated for the surviving” Page 3. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you are married and live, or have lived, in a state with community property statutes and do not designate your spouse as the sole beneficiary, you represent and warrant that your spouse has consented to such designation.” Page 4. Source document

Effect of divorce. “Changes in the relationship between the Account Owner and designated Beneficiary (such as marriage, divorce, or adoption) will not automatically add, change, or revoke Beneficiary designations.” Page 3. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You can add up to 10 contingent beneficiaries per account.” Web page. Source document

Online designation. “The Account Owner must identify each Beneficiary in-app.” Page 2. Source document

How to submit. “The Account Owner may change or revoke the designated Beneficiary in-app.” Page 3. Source document

SoFi Invest (SoFi Securities; Apex Clearing custodian per SoFi disclosures)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers SoFi Invest individual brokerage TOD (Active and Automated).

Trust as beneficiary
Not allowed. Trusts cannot be named (note follows the TOD instructions on the Invest beneficiary page)
Trust as contingent
Not allowed. Trusts cannot be named at any level.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Not allowed. Minors cannot be named.
Default beneficiary
Not stated.
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Online designation
Paper only. Paper form requested from an Investment Specialist (phone or chat); how to return it is not stated.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “For all other non-IRA Active & Automated accounts, you can designate "Transfer on Death" beneficiaries by requesting a form from an Investment Specialist. ... Note: We cannot accommodate trusts, minors, or non-U.S. citizens as beneficiaries at this time.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-09. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Note: We cannot accommodate trusts, minors, or non-U.S. citizens as beneficiaries at this time.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-09. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Note: We cannot accommodate trusts, minors, or non-U.S. citizens as beneficiaries at this time.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-09. Source document

Online designation. “you can designate "Transfer on Death" beneficiaries by requesting a form from an Investment Specialist. You can reach out to one of our Investment Specialists by calling 855-525-7634 or chat online.” Web page, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-08-09. Source document

Stifel (Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, custodian)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Missouri Nonprobate Transfers Law, RSMo ch. 461).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name including trustee name; testamentary trust as "Trustee Under Article __ of My Last Will"
Trust documents
Requested. Beneficiaries may be asked for the trust document at death.
Per stirpes
Offered. Election per primary beneficiary (options a and e)
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Division by representation among the primary beneficiary's descendants; share to estate if all predecease.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Lineal descendants of a named primary per stirpes may be elected; otherwise descendants take only if specifically designated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Custodial or guardianship account may be required.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Write "My Estate"
Default beneficiary
Estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Missouri anti-lapse (descendant substitutes) switched off; descendants take only if named.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Revokes; former spouse's share to owner's estate unless re-designated after the divorce.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. Continuation forms allowed; no limit.
How to submit
Original form forwarded to Stifel; Corporate Headquarters reviews and returns a confirmation.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “5. If you want all or part of the proceeds paid to a trust, you ... must indicate the name of the trust, including the name of the” Page 118, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

How to name the trust. “must indicate the name of the trust, including the name of the ... trustee, in the beneficiary designation” Page 118, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Trust documents. “be asked for a copy of the legal document that establishes the” Page 118, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Per stirpes. “You may elect to have the proceeds pass to the lineal ... descendants of the primary beneficiary, per stirpes.” Page 117, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “provides for the division of that share among the members of ... a group of descendants having a particular degree of kinship” Page 117, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

A class like "my children". “You may elect to have the proceeds pass to the lineal ... descendants of the primary beneficiary, per stirpes.” Page 117, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “In the event that a Beneficiary is a minor at the time of distribution, Stifel may require that a custodial, guardianship, or other fiduciary account be established for the benefit of the minor into which distribution may be made.” Page 114, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “If you want all or part of the proceeds paid to your estate, write ... My Estate as your beneficiary and the percentage” Page 118, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Default beneficiary. “or contingent beneficiary who survives you, the account ... proceeds will be distributed to your estate.” Page 117, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Section 461.045 of the Revised Statutes of the State of Missouri (RSMo) regarding lineal descendant substitutes, or any substantially similar statutory provisions of another state, shall not apply to this TOD Agreement. Any lineal descendant of a nonsurviving Beneficiary shall not be entitled to a distribution from the account unless specifically designated on the Beneficiary Designation form.” Page 114, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Effect of divorce. “A dissolution of marriage automatically revokes the designation of ... a former spouse as a Beneficiary, if such designation was made ... before the effective date of the Account Holder's divorce.” Page 114, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “To designate more beneficiaries than the form provides, use ... another Beneficiary Designation form as a continuation form.” Page 118, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

How to submit. “Forward the original Beneficiary Designation form to Stifel.” Page 119, form IRA agreement 100A (Rev. 4/2015) (5/2015); inherited IRA agreement 100-IHA (Rev. 7/2013), revision booklet undated; agreement Rev. 4/2015. Source document

T. Rowe Price (direct IRAs and brokerage)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Mutual fund and brokerage TOD.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Trusts at either level.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Per capita
Offered. Default (proportional reallocation among survivors)
Refused wording
Some wording refused. No estate or estate-distribution provisions.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Allowed; legal documentation at payout.
Estate as beneficiary
Not allowed. Estate cannot be named.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Predeceased primary's share to surviving primaries pro rata; secondaries only if no primary survives.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 3 primary and 3 secondary lines; attach a separate page for more.
How to submit
Mail; express delivery; signed by all owners.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Beneficiaries may include individuals, corporations, trusts, or other legal entities.” Page 2, form OM-17302. Source document

Trust as contingent. “You may designate one or more primary beneficiaries and one or ... more secondary beneficiaries. Beneficiaries may include individuals, ... corporations, trusts, or other legal entities.” Page 2, form OM-17302. Source document

Per capita. “Unless you ... indicate otherwise, T. Rowe Price will distribute to your beneficiaries on a ... per capita basis. ... Beneficiaries are listed on a per capita basis.” Page 1, form OM-17302. Source document

Refused wording. “You may not name yourself or your estate under a TOD designation or include estate distribution provisions.” Page 2, form OM-17302. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a minor is named as a beneficiary, and if the beneficiary inherits the assets while still a minor, additional legal documentation will be required.” Page 2, form OM-17302. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “You may not name yourself or your estate under a TOD designation or include estate distribution provisions.” Page 2, form OM-17302. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no beneficiary survives the account owner(s), the account belongs to the estate of the most recently deceased owner.” Page 2, form OM-17302. 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. ... Secondary beneficiaries ... inherit assets only if no primary beneficiaries survive you.” Page 1, form OM-17302. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “For more beneficiaries, check this box and attach a separate page.” Page 1, form OM-17302. Source document

How to submit. “Mail to: ... Baltimore, MD 21297-1302 ... Express delivery only:” Page 1, form OM-17302. Source document

TD Ameritrade (legacy; now Charles Schwab)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (former TD Ameritrade account now a Schwab One account; Schwab Designated Beneficiary Plan).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Full trust name.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Full trust name.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Full trust name and trust date.
Per stirpes
Offered. Per stirpes or per capita, individuals only.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. One generation only; Schwab's own definition governs.
Per capita
Offered. One election per account; one generation only.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Named individuals only.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Not accepted. Designation only on Schwab's form (additional options at schwab.com/beneficiaries); a change made in a will or trust is not honored except under a court order.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Name a UTMA/UGMA custodian on the form.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. The estate may be named as a beneficiary (Estate relationship box); the estate also takes if no beneficiary survives.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
120-hour survival; proportional reallocation.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Owner's warranty only; no spouse signature.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke; a former spouse remains beneficiary until a new agreement is filed (Plan governed by California law; the Schwab Bank Investor Checking terms say the same under Nevada law)
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; attach a signed, dated sheet.
Online designation
Available. Online for additional options.
How to submit
Upload by secure message; fax; branch.
In the institution’s own words

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

Trust as contingent. “Contingent Beneficiary ... 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. “You may select either a per stirpes distribution or a per capita distribution.” Page 1, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “Per stirpes and per capita distributions are limited to your named beneficiary's(ies') children and no further descendants.” Page 3, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

Per capita. “Please select either a per stirpes or a per capita distribution option. Only one option may be selected per account.” Page 3, form APP12461-16, revision 2026-07. Source document

A class like "my children". “changed or cancelled by 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 same” Page 9, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Custom designation. “You must designate your beneficiaries in ... writing on the form provided. ... Schwab will not honor any change of beneficiary made in a will or trust” Page 12, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Directions for Distribution(s) of Assets to Minor Beneficiaries ... the assets shall be transferred under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act ("UTMA") or the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act ("UGMA")” Page 10, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “Relationship (Select only one.) ... Other Individual Trust Organization Estate” Page 4, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. 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 to my estate.” Page 3, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “the remaining portion will be divided proportionately among any surviving Contingent Beneficiaries. Any beneficiary who does not survive me by 120 hours will be considered to have passed away before me.” Page 3, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. 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.” Page 1, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Effect of divorce. “subsequent marriage, dissolution of marriage, remarriage, or adoption, will ... not automatically add or revoke designations of beneficiaries ... the former spouse will remain a beneficiary after the” Page 13, form AEM11527257, revision 2025-03. 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 this” Page 7, form AEM10603357, revision 2026-03. Source document

Online designation. “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

The Northern Trust Company

Bank

Covers Northern Funds TOD registration (mutual fund shares; The Northern Trust Company registers).

Trust as beneficiary
Not allowed. Natural persons only.
Trust as contingent
Not allowed. Natural persons only.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary named individually with relationship and birth date.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Custom designation
Accepted. Checkbox for attached instructions.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian (not UGMA); custodian line on the form.
Estate as beneficiary
Not allowed. Estate cannot be named (it is the default)
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Equal among surviving primaries; contingents only if no primary survives; no LDPS substitution.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property states; spouse signs section 4.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; separate sheet allowed.
Notary or medallion
Required. Medallion for existing accounts and changes; not with a new account application.
How to submit
Mail; fax; changes by medallion-guaranteed letter.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “The beneficiaries on a TOD registration may be natural persons only.” Page 3, revision 2025-08. Source document

Trust as contingent. “The beneficiaries on a TOD registration may be natural persons only.” Page 3, revision 2025-08. Source document

A class like "my children". “The beneficiaries on a TOD registration may be natural persons only. ... please attach a separate sheet listing names, relationships and birthdates.” Page 1, revision 2025-08. Source document

Custom designation. “I have attached additional beneficiary instructions.” Page 1, revision 2025-08. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Custodians under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act are permitted beneficiaries in a TOD registration. Custodians under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act ("UGMA") are not permitted beneficiaries ... Minors should not be designated beneficiaries unless a guardian or custodian is referenced in the registration.” Page 3, revision 2025-08. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “The beneficiaries on a TOD registration may be natural persons only.” Page 3, revision 2025-08. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If the beneficiary does not survive the owner or if the beneficiary is unable to accept his or her interest, the shares become the property of the owner's estate.” Page 4, revision 2025-08. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “Thus, the shares are transferred to each of the primary beneficiaries, in equal shares, who survive the account owner. ... Contingent beneficiaries receive the account upon the death of the account owner if, and only if, there are no surviving primary beneficiaries. ... if the beneficiary survives the owner but is not alive when the transfer request is received, the shares become the property of the beneficiary's estate.” Page 3, revision 2025-08. Source document

Spousal consent. “Any resident of a community property state (currently Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin) who designated beneficiaries other than a spouse must obtain the spouse's consent.” Page 2, revision 2025-08. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You may list additional beneficiaries on a separate sheet, if needed.” Page 3, revision 2025-08. Source document

Notary or medallion. “Please obtain a Medallion Signature Guarantee Stamp when adding new Transfer on Death beneficiaries ... A Medallion Signature Guarantee Stamp is not required when submitting this form with a New Account Application” Page 3, revision 2025-08. Source document

How to submit. “Please mail your application to: Northern Funds, P.O. Box 75986, Chicago, IL 60675-5986 or fax your form to: 312-557-0411. ... You may change or revoke the TOD registration with clear instructions to Northern Funds Center” Page 1, revision 2025-08. Source document

Thrivent (Thrivent Funds direct accounts and IRAs)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Thrivent Funds retirement account and TOD.

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust name and date.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Contingent table takes a trust name and trust date.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and trust date; no trustee name asked.
Trust documents
Requested. At claim, a trust beneficiary opening a Thrivent Funds account supplies a Certification of Trust (MF34914)
Per stirpes
Offered. LDPS box after each name.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. All lineal descendants, "on forever"
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Listed group designations (no step-children unless adopted); LDPS box after each name.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Only the listed group designations; LDPS only for relatives by blood, marriage or adoption; "or" and "and/or" read as "and"
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
To surviving beneficiaries; with LDPS to the deceased beneficiary's lineal descendants first.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; signed letter of instruction for more.
Online designation
Available. Online with electronic signature, or paper form.
Electronic signature
Accepted. Online electronic signature.
How to submit
Online; mail; express mail; fax (866-278-8363)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If a beneficiary is a trust, provide the trust name and date the trust was established.” Page 1, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Contingent beneficiaries ... last name, or name of trust/entity” Page 1, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

How to name the trust. “If a beneficiary is a trust, provide the trust name and date the trust was established.” Page 1, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Trust documents. “Certification of Trust (MF24143): Required for Trust accounts.” Page 2, form MF23438. Source document

Per stirpes. “If Lineal Descendants Per Stirpes (LDPS) is not checked after each name/group, Primary/Contingent will be used.” Page 1, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “When LDPS is used, upon the death of the named beneficiary, the beneficiary rights transfer to the descendants of the deceased beneficiary (a person who is in direct line to an ancestor), such as child, grandchild, great grandchild, and on forever.” Page 1, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

A class like "my children". “Children, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, half-brothers, half-sisters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, granddaughters and grandsons are the only acceptable group designations.” Page 3, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Refused wording. “Children, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, half-brothers, half-sisters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, granddaughters and grandsons are the only acceptable group designations. ... Thrivent accepts the LDPS designation when the individual named is related to the benefit member by blood, marriage, or legal adoption.” Page 3, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If none of the beneficiaries survive, proceeds shall be paid to the owner's estate.” Page 3, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If two or more persons are named as primary beneficiaries, the death proceeds will be paid equally to the survivors or survivor, unless otherwise directed. ... If a named beneficiary dies without leaving a lineal descendant, that beneficiary's share of the death proceeds will be distributed among the remaining named beneficiaries in proportionate shares.” Page 3, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If additional beneficiary designations are needed, submit a letter of instruction with this form signed by the account owner(s).” Page 1, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Online designation. “This beneficiary designation is effective and revokes all previous beneficiary designations upon: 1) successful completion of the electronic signature process online” Page 3, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

Electronic signature. “successful completion of the electronic signature process online” Page 3, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

How to submit. “successful completion of the electronic signature process online, or 2) submission to and approval by the Processing Center ... Regular Mail: Express Mail: Fax: Phone:” Page 2, form MF307, revision R10-24. Source document

TIAA (IRAs)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers TIAA-CREF Funds individual or joint account with TOD (application F11154).

Trust as beneficiary
Not stated.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Offered. One checkbox per level (primary, contingent) applies to every beneficiary at that level.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. A predeceased beneficiary's share goes to that beneficiary's lineal descendants.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. LDPS checkbox for all named beneficiaries.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. A joint owner cannot be a TOD beneficiary; TOD only for Individual or Joint registrations.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. A custodian may be named on each beneficiary line.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Without per stirpes, pro rata to surviving beneficiaries; the predeceased beneficiary's estate takes nothing.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 2 primary and 2 contingent lines; extra sheet allowed.
How to submit
Mail (standard or overnight) to TIAA-CREF Funds, Kansas City.
In the institution’s own words

Per stirpes. “If a beneficiary should predecease you and you want that beneficiary's share to go to his or her lineal descendants, check per stirpes. ... Yes, add Per Stirpes (For every beneficiary)” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “If a beneficiary should predecease you and you want that beneficiary's share to go to his or her lineal descendants, check per stirpes.” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

A class like "my children". “Lineal Descendants Per Stirpes ... Yes, add Per Stirpes (For every beneficiary)” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

Refused wording. “Please take note that the Custodian or a joint owner may not be designated as the Beneficiary.” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Custodian (If the beneficiary is a minor)” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If there are no surviving contingent beneficiaries at the time of your death, we will transfer ownership of your account to your estate.” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If a primary beneficiary predeceases you, his or her share shall be divided proportionately among the surviving primary beneficiaries. ... Otherwise, a beneficiary's rights end with the death of that beneficiary, and the estate of a predeceased beneficiary has no claim to or interest in your account.” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “For additional beneficiaries, please attach a separate piece of paper.” Page 8, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

How to submit. “Please send your signed and completed application to TIAA-CREF Funds per the Return Completed Forms section below or in the enclosed postage-paid business-reply envelope.” Page 1, form F11154, revision 2023-09, read from a Wayback Machine capture of 2025-07-10. Source document

TradeStation Securities

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Individual and joint equities account TOD (TradeStation TOD Account Agreement).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Individuals, trusts, entities, UTMA custodians.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Lineal descendants of a deceased primary as a class (option A; also the default)
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian may be named.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. Estate as the taker of a predeceased primary's share (Step 5 option C)
Default beneficiary
Owner's (or last surviving joint owner's) estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Owner elects, lineal descendants, surviving primaries pro rata, estate, or named contingents; default lineal descendants, then estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Spouse must consent whenever the spouse is not sole primary beneficiary, in every state.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs before a witness (witness name and address); no notary; consent revocable in writing before death.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke (agreement governed by the law of the owner's state of residence)
How to submit
Email.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “The undersigned designate(s) the following individual(s), trust(s), guardianship(s), entity(ies), and/or custodian(s) under the Uniform” Page 2. Source document

A class like "my children". “If any primary beneficiary listed in STEP 4 above is not living at the death of the undersigned or survivor of the undersigned, that primary beneficiary's share shall pass as follows ... A. To the deceased primary beneficiary's lineal descendants.” Page 2. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “custodian(s) under the Uniform ... Transfer to Minors Act as beneficiary(ies) of the assets in the Account” Page 2. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “C. To the estate of the undersigned or, for joint accounts, the survivor of the undersigned.” Page 2. Source document

Default beneficiary. “no primary or contingent beneficiary designation is in effect for the Account ... upon the death of the undersigned of the survivor of the undersigned, ... TradeStation will distribute the assets of the Account to the estate of the” Page 3. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “that primary beneficiary's share shall pass as follows ... B. To the surviving primary beneficiaries based upon the ratio of their designated share percentages. ... If no provision has been made for one or more deceased ... primary beneficiary's share under Step 5, TradeStation will pay such share ... to the deceased primary beneficiary's lineal descendants or, in the absence ... thereof, to the estate of the undersigned or survivor of the undersigned.” Page 2. Source document

Spousal consent. “This section MUST be completed if EITHER: (i) the Account is a single name account and the undersigned's spouse is not named below as the sole primary beneficiary, OR (ii) the Account is a joint account and the joint tenants on the Account are not married to each other.” Page 1. Source document

How the spouse consents. “Signature of Spouse Signature of Witness ... This spousal consent may be revoked at any time, but, in order to be effective, such ... revocation must be in writing, signed by the Spouse, and received by TradeStation prior to the death of the undersigned” Page 1. Source document

Effect of divorce. “Changes in the relationship between the ... undersigned and a designated beneficiary, including but not limited to, ... subsequent marriage, divorce, remarriage or adoption, will not effect a ... prior designation.” Page 3. Source document

How to submit. “Return this completed form by: ... Email [email protected]” Page 1. Source document

U.S. Bank National Association

Bank

Covers U.S. Bancorp Investments brokerage TOD (Minnesota Uniform TOD Security Registration Act).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Individuals or entities (U.S. Bancorp Investments, brokerage affiliate); a trustee designation includes successor trustees.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Persons or entities as contingent beneficiaries.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Offered. Right of representation option.
Per stirpes defined
Defined. Defined with a worked family example.
A class like "my children"
Allowed. Per-beneficiary "Rights of Representation" box passes a predeceased beneficiary's share to unnamed descendants; owner states how many children that beneficiary has.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Nominated custodian or custodial trustee; else a UTMA custodian, conservator or guardian; if none within a reasonable time, the owner's estate.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate if no beneficiary survives.
If a beneficiary dies first
To the beneficiary's descendants if Rights of Representation is checked; otherwise pro rata to surviving primaries; then contingents; then the owner's estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Married clients must answer the community property section if the spouse is not a primary beneficiary for at least the stated share.
How the spouse consents
Written consent signed and dated by the spouse on the form (Sec. 2); community property jurisdictions AZ, CA, ID, LA, NV, NM, TX, WA, WI, Puerto Rico, Guam; no notary stated.
Online designation
Paper only. A new signed paper TOD Account Agreement only.
How to submit
Through the U.S. Bancorp Investments representative (in person); effective on acceptance at the principal office.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “Any individual or entity may be designated as a Beneficiary. ... A designation of the trustee of a trust as a Beneficiary shall be deemed to include the successor or successors to the designated trustee.” Page 6, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Trust as contingent. “"Contingent Beneficiary" shall mean the one or more persons or entities designated in the TOD Account Agreement” Page 6, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Per stirpes. “Distribution to Descendants by Right of Representation. Assets distributable to the descendants of a deceased person "by right of representation" shall first be divided into as many shares as there are surviving children and deceased children of the deceased person.” Page 4, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Per stirpes defined. “Assets distributable to the descendants of a deceased person "by right of representation" shall first be divided into as many shares as there are surviving children and deceased children of the deceased person. Each surviving child shall receive one share and the share of each deceased child will” Page 4, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

A class like "my children". “may also select right of representation for any beneficiary. If selecting right of representation for any beneficiary, the Account Owners must also indicate how many children that beneficiary has as of the date of signing this document.” Page 6, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If no custodian or custodial trustee has been nominated for any minor or incapacitated adult, or if the nominated custodian or custodial trustee is unable or unwilling to accept the distribution, U.S. Bancorp Investments may transfer to any duly appointed and acting custodian for such minor under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act” Page 7, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Default beneficiary. “Account assets will transfer to the last Account Owner's estate.” Page 5, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “That Primary Beneficiary's share shall be distributed to that Primary Beneficiary's descendants by right of representation if that option has been selected on page 1. ... That Primary Beneficiary's share shall be allocated proportionately among the surviving Primary Beneficiaries” Page 5, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Spousal consent. “Community All married clients are required to answer if spouse is not at” Page 3, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

How the spouse consents. “If you do not designate your spouse as Primary Beneficiary for at least half of your TOD Account, your spouse must consent in writing to the beneficiary designation. ... Signature of Spouse of Primary Account Owner” Page 3, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Online designation. “any changes in the Designated Beneficiaries or the Contingent Beneficiaries may be made only by completing a new U.S. Bancorp Investments Transfer on Death Account Agreement signed by us” Page 4, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

How to submit. “Submit via workflow, provide a copy to client. Original to branch file. ... no such change shall be effective until it is received and accepted by you at your principal office” Page 3, form 0E24641, revision 2023-08. Source document

Vanguard

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage and mutual fund TOD (Transfer on Death Plan).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Existing trust under agreement only.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Existing living trust as backup.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust name and date; existing trust only.
Per stirpes
Not offered. No class gifts, no per stirpes.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Class designations refused.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. Group designations refused.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. Vanguard may transfer to an account for the minor or to a guardian, parent, UTMA/UGMA custodian or person named in the owner's will or trust.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Proportional to surviving beneficiaries, then backups.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Effect of divorce
Does not revoke, the plan overrides a divorce decree, and a statutory change presented after death is not honored without a court order (Pennsylvania-law plan)
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 5 individual, 2 trust and 5 organization lines; separate sheet for more; minimum 1%.
Online designation
Available. Online enrollment if available; otherwise paper form.
How to submit
Mail (regular or overnight, El Paso); online if available.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “To the trustee of an existing trust created under an agreement ... Name of trust” Page 7, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Backup beneficiaries Fill in all that apply. ... To the trustee of an existing trust created under an agreement” Page 7, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

How to name the trust. “To the trustee of an existing trust created under an agreement ... Date of trust mm dd yyyy” Page 7, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Per stirpes. “Vanguard doesn't accept designations that name a group of individuals, such as "my descendants" or "children, per stirpes," on a Transfer on Death Plan because of the difficulty in identifying the members of the” Page 4, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

A class like "my children". “Vanguard doesn't accept designations that name a group of individuals, such as "my descendants" or "children, per stirpes," on a Transfer on Death Plan” Page 4, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Refused wording. “Vanguard doesn't accept designations that name a group of individuals, such as "my descendants" or "children, per stirpes," on a Transfer on Death Plan” Page 4, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “4.4 Minors as Beneficiaries. If, upon the death of ... Beneficiary known to Vanguard to be a minor is ... its absolute discretion, transfer or distribute the ... Plan Securities to which the minor is entitled to an” Page 12, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If none of your Plan Beneficiaries survive you or survive the last surviving account owner, if applicable, then your estate or the last surviving account owner's estate, as the case may be, will be treated as the Plan Beneficiary.” Page 12, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any beneficiary is deceased at the time of your death, his or her assets will be divided proportionately among your surviving beneficiaries. Your backup beneficiaries will inherit your assets only if you have no surviving beneficiaries at the time of your death.” Page 4, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Effect of divorce. “therein in any will; trust; premarital, marital, or ... divorce agreement or decree; or other instrument. ... change to your Plan Beneficiary purported to ... be made by a will, trust, agreement, or other ... instrument or state statute presented to Vanguard ... after your death, unless directed to do so by court” Page 12, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “If you need more ... space to list additional ... names, provide the ... information on a ... separate sheet.” Page 6, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Online designation. “by completing and signing the Application Form ... or, if available, by enrolling online through ... vanguard.com. Your enrollment will be effective” Page 11, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

How to submit. “Mail your completed form and any attached information to: ... or, if available, by enrolling online through” Page 10, form FDBPT (kit BDBP; agreement TODPAT 092025), revision 07/2026. Source document

Wealthfront

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Wealthfront taxable investing account beneficiaries.

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. Residents of community property states.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs before a witness; uploaded.
Online designation
Available. App or website, primary and contingent.
How to submit
Online; spousal consent form uploaded.
In the institution’s own words

Spousal consent. “you need your spouse's consent to designate any primary beneficiary other than your spouse. This need arises from state property law.” Web page, revision 2026-08-28. Source document

How the spouse consents. “have your spouse complete the Spousal Consent Form in the presence of a witness, and then upload the completed form on the Taxes & Documents page.” Web page, revision 2026-08-28. Source document

Online designation. “You can update your beneficiary information anytime in the mobile app or on our website.” Web page, revision 2026-09-03. Source document

How to submit. “You can update your beneficiary information anytime in the mobile app or on our website. ... upload the completed form on the Taxes & Documents page” Web page, revision 2026-09-03. Source document

Webull Financial

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Individual cash and margin brokerage TOD.

Trust as beneficiary
Not allowed. Only adult individuals with a U.S. address and TIN; trusts not provided for.
Trust as contingent
Not allowed. Same rule for contingent beneficiaries.
How to name the trust
Not stated.
Per stirpes
Not stated.
Refused wording
Not stated.
Minor as beneficiary
Not allowed. Minors cannot be named.
Estate as beneficiary
Not allowed. Only adult individuals.
Default beneficiary
Estate (older FAQ, written before TOD was offered; now applies where no TOD beneficiary is on file)
If a beneficiary dies first
Not stated.
Spousal consent
Not stated.
Limit on beneficiaries
Limit stated. 6 primary and 6 contingent.
Online designation
Available. App or website; overrides the older FAQ that said beneficiaries were only available for IRAs.
How to submit
Online (app or website)
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “TOD beneficiaries can be designated for IRAs, Individual Cash, and Margin accounts. ... Beneficiaries must be legal adults (18 or older) with a valid U.S. address and a Tax Identification Number (TIN).” Web page. Source document

Trust as contingent. “Beneficiaries must be legal adults (18 or older) with a valid U.S. address and a Tax Identification Number (TIN).” Web page. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “Beneficiaries must be legal adults (18 or older)” Web page. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “A Transfer on Death (TOD) beneficiary designation allows you to name one or more individuals ... Beneficiaries must be legal adults (18 or older)” Web page. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If the owner of a Webull individual brokerage account passes away, the assets will be processed through their estate.” Web page. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “You can designate up to six primary beneficiaries and six contingent beneficiaries.” Web page. Source document

Online designation. “TOD beneficiaries can be designated for IRAs, Individual Cash, and Margin accounts. ... You can revoke a beneficiary directly from the Beneficiaries page on both the mobile app and website.” Web page. Source document

How to submit. “To add or modify your beneficiary designations, please navigate through the following steps: ... Select View Details next to Beneficiary Information.” Web page. Source document

Wells Fargo Advisors (Wells Fargo Clearing Services, custodian; incl. WellsTrade and Intuitive Investor)

Brokerage or IRA custodian

Covers Brokerage TOD (Wells Fargo Advisors).

Trust as beneficiary
Allowed. Trust allowed; date required.
Trust as contingent
Allowed. Contingents allowed.
How to name the trust
Set details or wording. Trust date required; naming a trustee includes co- and successor trustees.
Per stirpes
Not offered. Refused.
A class like "my children"
Each person named. Each beneficiary identified individually; heir-determining class designations refused.
Refused wording
Some wording refused. "per stirpes" and similar heir-determining language refused.
Minor as beneficiary
Allowed. UTMA custodian required.
Estate as beneficiary
Allowed. An estate may be a beneficiary (letters testamentary and affidavit of domicile at payout); estate is also a lapse option.
Default beneficiary
Owner's estate.
If a beneficiary dies first
Owner chooses contingent, pro rata, or estate.
Spousal consent
Required in some cases. Community property jurisdictions; may reject without consent.
How the spouse consents
Spouse signs consent section; spouse's signature must be notarized.
Limit on beneficiaries
No limit. 4 primary and 4 contingent lines; extra signed sheet allowed.
How to submit
Not stated.
In the institution’s own words

Trust as beneficiary. “If you designate a trust as a beneficiary, you must specify the date the trust was established.” Page 3, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Trust as contingent. “You may (but are not required to) designate one or more contingent beneficiaries for your account(s).” Page 3, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

How to name the trust. “If you designate a trust as a beneficiary, you must specify the date the trust was established.” Page 3, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Per stirpes. “We will not honor "per stirpes" or any similar designation where we would have to determine the identities of heirs of a deceased beneficiary.” Page 3, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

A class like "my children". “We will not honor "per stirpes" or any similar designation where we would have to determine the identities of heirs of a deceased beneficiary. ... You must provide the name, address, birthdate, and taxpayer identification number for any beneficiary.” Page 2, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Refused wording. “We will not honor "per stirpes" or any similar designation where we would have to determine the identities of heirs of a deceased beneficiary.” Page 3, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Minor as beneficiary. “If a beneficiary is a minor, then you must designate a custodian under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA).” Page 3, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Estate as beneficiary. “If a beneficiary is an estate, then we will require (1) letters testamentary for the personal representative(s), and (2) an affidavit of domicile.” Page 3, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Default beneficiary. “If no primary or contingent beneficiaries are alive when the last surviving account owner dies, or if all beneficiaries disclaim their interests in your account, we will distribute the assets to the last surviving account owner's estate.” Page 7, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

If a beneficiary dies first. “If any primary beneficiary dies before the last surviving account owner, we will distribute that beneficiary's share to (a) the corresponding contingent beneficiary; (b) the other primary beneficiaries on a pro rata basis; or (c) your estate, depending on the option you have chosen.” Page 4, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Spousal consent. “If you live in a community property jurisdiction and your spouse is neither a joint owner nor the sole primary beneficiary of your account, your spouse must complete this section.” Page 8, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

How the spouse consents. “By signing below, your spouse declares that he/she is your spouse and consents to any designation of beneficiaries you have made. ... REQUIRED NOTARIZATION OF SPOUSE'S SIGNATURE” Page 8, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Limit on beneficiaries. “Please use a separate sheet if additional beneficiaries are desired. The sheet must be signed by all account owners.” Page 7, form 556442, revision Rev 21 - 06/18. Source document

Bank accounts pass by a payable-on-death designation instead, and the payable-on-death rules show how banks and credit unions treat a beneficiary who dies first. The full beneficiary designation dataset covers every account type, and the guide to Florida beneficiary designations explains how these forms fit into an estate plan.

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., Brokerage Transfer on Death (TOD) Beneficiary Rules (2026), StepUpLaw, https://stepuplaw.com/data/beneficiary-designation-rules/transfer-on-death/ (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.