Payable on Death (POD) is a feature offered by banks that allows account holders to designate beneficiaries who will receive the funds in their account upon their death, without going through probate. It is a convenient way to pass on assets directly to beneficiaries and avoid legal complications. Here is a detailed description of Payable on Death for bank accounts and its various types: Payable on Death, also known as Transfer on Death (TOD) or beneficiary designation, is an arrangement where the account owner designates one or more beneficiaries to receive the account's funds upon their death. This option is typically available for various types of bank accounts, including savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The primary purpose of POD is to provide a simple and efficient method of transferring ownership or control of funds held in a bank account. By designating beneficiaries, individuals can ensure a smooth transfer of their financial assets to their loved ones without the need for a will, trust, or probate. There are a few different types of Payable on Death arrangements available: 1. Single beneficiary POD: In this type, the account owner designates a single beneficiary who will inherit the entire account balance upon their death. The beneficiary has no access to the account or its funds until the account owner passes away. 2. Multiple beneficiaries POD: Here, the account owner can name multiple beneficiaries who will share the account's assets in predetermined proportions after the owner's death. The account holder can specify the percentage or fraction of the account balance each beneficiary will receive. 3. Contingent beneficiary POD: This type allows the account owner to name a primary beneficiary and a contingent beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is entitled to the account's assets upon the owner's death, but if the primary beneficiary dies before the owner, the contingent beneficiary steps in to inherit the funds. It is important to note that the named beneficiaries have no legal claim on the account while the owner is alive. They are only granted access and ownership rights once the account owner passes away. To set up Payable on Death arrangements, account holders typically need to complete specific forms provided by the bank, which requires the beneficiary's full name, contact information, and Social Security number. The account owner can modify or revoke the beneficiary designation at any time by completing a new form. In conclusion, Payable on Death is a valuable feature that allows individuals to designate beneficiaries who will receive the funds from their bank accounts upon their death. It simplifies the transfer of assets and can help avoid lengthy probate processes. Whether it's single beneficiary, multiple beneficiaries, or contingent beneficiary POD, this option provides account owners with added control and flexibility in estate planning.