Quick Answer: Yes, a beneficiary designation will always trump your Last Will and Testament. If you name someone as a Payable on Death (POD) beneficiary on an account or transfer a property to them via deed, they own that asset instantly upon your passing. They have absolutely zero legal obligation to follow the instructions written in your will. It is entirely understandable to want to save money, avoid the probate process, and simplify things for your family. Many parents t

Beneficiary designations and Payable on Death (POD) designations are critical tools in estate planning. However, many financial institutions are surprisingly poor at maintaining these designations over time. This oversight can lead to major problems for your loved ones after you're gone. The Hidden Problem with Beneficiary Designations It’s surprisingly common for beneficiary or POD designations to disappear from accounts. This can happen for several reasons: Accounts transfe

If you are navigating estate planning in Florida, you may have heard of a "Lady Bird Deed." However, a common point of confusion—and a frequent question we see in our practice—is the critical difference between an Enhanced Life Estate Deed (the Lady Bird Deed) and a regular, old-fashioned Life Estate Deed. Understanding the distinction between these two documents is crucial for your property rights and your future flexibility. Here is everything you need to know about how the