If a life insurance policy has no named beneficiary upon the insured's death, where does the death benefit get paid?

Question: If a life insurance policy has no named beneficiary upon the insured's death, where does the death benefit get paid?

Answer options:

• To the insurance company.
• To the insured's surviving spouse automatically. ✅ To the insured's estate.
• To Assuris.

Correct answer: To the insured's estate.

Explanation: If there is no living named beneficiary at the time of the insured’s death, the policy proceeds are paid to the insured's estate, where they become subject to probate fees and potential claims from creditors.