§ 45 Beneficiary Designation Instruments

Probate Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law tells you what the word “instrument” means – it’s any paper that names who gets something or gives away property.

Key Takeaways

•An instrument can be a will, a trust paper, a deed, or any other writing that names a beneficiary.
•It also includes any document that gives away property as a gift.
•The definition was updated by a law passed in 2019 and took effect on Jan. 1, 2020.

Example

Jane writes a will saying her house goes to her son after she dies.

Jane’s will is an “instrument” because it is a written document that names a beneficiary and transfers property.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 45 Beneficiary Designation Instruments

“Instrument” means a will, a document establishing or modifying a trust, a deed, or any other writing that designates a beneficiary or makes a donative transfer of property. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 56, Sec. 1. (SB 308) Effective January 1, 2020.)

Last verified: January 11, 2026

Key Terms

Instrument will trust deed beneficiary donative transfer of property

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Probate Code. Section 45.

Key Takeaways

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References