Ethics Beneficiaries, Creditor Protection & Claims question: retired engineer in Halifax

EthicsBeneficiaries, Creditor Protection & Claims

Farid, 72, a retired engineer in Halifax, writes in his new will: 'I irrevocably designate my daughter Amira as beneficiary of my policy with Insurer X.' He wants to make sure his other children cannot change this after he is gone. He never files any other declaration with the insurer. What is the legal effect of the word 'irrevocably'?

A The designation is void because a will cannot name a beneficiary
B Amira is an irrevocable beneficiary from the date of the will
C None: a designation in a will takes effect as a revocable one
D Amira becomes the owner of the policy on Farid's death

Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C. None: a designation in a will takes effect as a revocable one

An irrevocable designation must be made in the contract or in a declaration, other than one in a will, filed with the insurer during the life insured's lifetime. If the insured purports to designate irrevocably in a will or in a declaration that is not filed, the designation has the same effect as if it had not been made irrevocable. So Amira is a revocable beneficiary. Source: Insurance Act (BC), RSBC 2012, c. 1, s. 60(2) (current to 6 Oct 2026; as at 12 Oct 2026); the other common-law provinces' Insurance Acts have the same uniform provision.

Common mistake

Thinking a will can create an irrevocable beneficiary.

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Original study material mapped to the public CISRO curriculum; not a real test question.Not affiliated with CISRO, CCIR or any provincial insurance regulator. Verify figures and rules against current guidance before relying on them.