Many people are surprised to learn that when it comes to bank accounts and other financial assets, your will may not be the final word. In Georgia, as in most states, beneficiary designations generally override what’s written in your will.
That means if your bank account lists someone as the “payable-on-death” (POD) beneficiary, that person gets the funds—even if your will says otherwise.
How Bank Account Beneficiaries Work in Georgia
Georgia allows you to name a POD beneficiary on checking, savings, and other accounts. This designation tells the bank who should receive the funds in that account when you pass away.
These accounts do not go through probate. The money goes directly to the named beneficiary.
So, if your will says “I leave all my assets to my daughter,” but your bank account names your son as the POD beneficiary, your son will receive the money from that account.
What About Trusts?
Just like individuals, a trust can be named as a POD beneficiary. If you name your revocable living trust as the beneficiary of your accounts, the funds will be transferred into the trust and distributed according to the trust’s terms.
This can be a good strategy if:
- You want to control how money is distributed (e.g., in stages)
- You want to ensure minor children don’t receive lump sums
- You want to avoid probate and consolidate asset control
👉 Explore: Worried About Probate? How a Revocable Trust Can Protect Your Family
How to Avoid Conflicting Estate Plans
Conflicts between wills and beneficiary designations are common—and often avoidable. To ensure your estate plan reflects your actual wishes:
- Review all account designations regularly (especially after major life events)
- Coordinate your will, trust, and beneficiary forms to align
- Update documents when your relationships or goals change
An outdated beneficiary designation can undo even the most carefully written will.
Final Thought
In Georgia, beneficiary designations on bank accounts override wills. The same is true for life insurance, retirement accounts, and other financial assets. If you’re not sure your estate plan is working together properly, it’s time to get legal guidance.
At Hurban Law, LLC, we help families across Georgia build integrated estate plans that prevent surprises and protect their wishes.
Contact us today to make sure your beneficiary designations match your overall estate goals.
