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What Happens to the Ownership of Stocks After a Person Dies?

By Robin Hartill, CFPUpdated May 28, 2025 at 4:39 PM | Fact-checked by Frank Bass

Key Points

  • Designating a TOD beneficiary allows stock transfer without probate.
  • Jointly owned stocks automatically transfer to the co-owner upon death.
  • Without a TOD designation, stocks must go through probate for transfer.

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