What is needed to change the beneficiary of a life insurance policy?

To change the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, a written request by the policyholder is required. This ensures that there is an official record of the policyholder's intent to make the change. The request is typically made by filling out a specific form provided by the insurance company, which clearly identifies the new beneficiary and effectively communicates the policyholder's wishes.

Having a written request not only serves as documentation but also minimizes any potential disputes regarding the intended beneficiary. This step is vital because the beneficiary designation directly affects the distribution of policy benefits upon the death of the insured.

While other options touch on relevant aspects of the process, they do not accurately describe the formal requirement for changing a beneficiary. For instance, consent from the current beneficiary may be appreciated in certain situations, particularly when the beneficiary is revocable; however, it's not strictly required unless the designation is irrevocable. Similarly, while the insurer does need to be informed of the change, the approval or permission from the insurer is not the primary requirement; the written request from the policyholder suffices to initiate the change.