Is my SSN required to be a beneficiary in a Will?
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Is my SSN required to be a beneficiary in a Will?
I was asked to be a beneficiary for a Will and was told by the party that they need my social security number and date of birth? Is this a necessary requirement because I do not want anyone to have my social security number.
Asked on May 1, 2011 under Estate Planning, New York
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
No, your SSN is not required to be listed as a beneficiary of a Will. Beneficiaries are identified in a Will by name, relationship to the testator (the person making the Will), and date of birth (that is necessary). So if a beneficiary's SSN is not included, the execution of the Will is in no way affected.
Note: A beneficiary's SSN may sometimes be required if a life insurance policy or the like is involved.
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