Can I name pets as beneficiaries in a life insurance policy?

Question

hi

I have 6 cats that I raised from infancy, three that I bottle fed and the other three I was there for the delivery of. I'm thinking about getting a life insurance policy, but I'm wondering if it's worth it. Can my cats be my beneficiaries or is there some way to say that my family is the beneficiary but with stipulations that the money after my burial be used for the care and maintenance of my feline family. These are my children and I want to know that they will be taken care of in the case of something happening to me.

Answer 1

You may have to designate somebody in particular, or your estate, as a beneficiary, then write it up in a will how you want the money to be used. So, yes, but you'd have to find an attorney and do it from their side.

The cats themselves can't be named without something else written up because they can't just walk up to a pet care facility and lay money on the counter for a place to stay. You may want to think about where you want them to go and what you want the money to be spent on. I'm sure an attorney would go over all of that with you.

Answer 2

Yes, you can leave all your money to the beloved pets. But it is best to have someone be power of attorney for your pet as they can not right the checks to take care of themselves. You can also go the other route with stipulations on a family member if you trust them. Best to ask your family first. If they say your crazy then I would not trust them with the care of my pets. Good Luck, make sure it's all on paper with no loop holes.

Answer 3

Yes, you can leave the money to your cats, but whoever is appointed guardian gets to use the money as they see fit (just like with human children).  Your most secure option is to have an attorney create a trust for the benefit of your cats and have the trust as beneficiary of your policy.  Any attorney will be able to explain why this is better than leaving money directly to them.

Answer 4

no, you are not able to name an animal as a beneficiary.  you can, however, set up a trust or designate an adult human to receive the proceeds on behalf of your pets.  contact your lawyer and they would be able to help you establish a trust if you are not able to find an adult to receive the proceeds.

Answer 5

Yes, depending on the particular insurance company and your policy. Absolutely consult an attorney and have any such policy written exactly as you wish the benefits to be paid out and administered.

Answer 6

Sure, why not.  Call a lawyer.