---
title: "Beneficiaries and trusted contacts"
description: "Name who receives each alooola account if you die, and add a trusted contact we can call if we can't reach you."
url: https://support.alooola.com/beneficiaries
docs_index: https://support.alooola.com/llms.txt
---

# Beneficiaries and trusted contacts

> Name who receives each alooola account if you die, and add a trusted contact we can call if we can't reach you.

A beneficiary is the person who receives an account if you die. You name beneficiaries separately for each account, in that account's settings.

## How do I add a beneficiary?

1. **Open the account's settings.** Open the account from Home and tap **⋯** in the top corner.
2. **Tap Beneficiaries.** It's under **Beneficiaries & Contacts**.
3. **Tap Add Primary Beneficiary.** Enter their full name, date of birth and percentage. Email is optional. Tap **Add**.
4. **Add contingent beneficiaries if you want them.** Tap **Add Contingent Beneficiary** the same way.
5. **Tap Save.**

The percentages in each group must add up to 100. You can name up to four people in each group.

## What's the difference between primary and contingent?

- **Primary** beneficiaries are first in line. They share the account by the percentages you set.
- **Contingent** beneficiaries receive it only if no primary beneficiary is alive.

## Do beneficiaries apply to all my accounts?

No. Each account has its own. Adding someone to your IRA doesn't add them to your other accounts.

## Is it different for a 401(k)?

Yes, a little. A 401(k) has one list, with no contingent group.

Tap **Add beneficiary**, and give each person an email or a phone number. The percentages must add up to 100.

Some older accounts, not held at Apex Clearing, also ask for each person's relationship to you and call the second group **Secondary**.

## When should I review my beneficiaries?

A good habit is to check them after a marriage, divorce, birth, adoption or death in the family, and whenever you open a new account.

:::note
A beneficiary designation usually takes priority over your will for that account. If you have questions about how they fit together, talk to your estate attorney.
:::

## What is a trusted contact?

Someone we may call if we can't reach you, or if we're concerned about your account. A trusted contact can't see your account, make decisions about it, or move money.

Naming one is optional. To add one, open an account's settings and tap **Trusted Contacts** under **Beneficiaries & Contacts**. Enter their name and a phone number or email, choose the accounts they cover, and tap **Add Contact**.

Questions? Email [support@alooola.com](mailto:support@alooola.com).