What term is used for the person who receives the death benefit from a life insurance policy?

The term "beneficiary" refers to the individual or entity designated to receive the death benefit from a life insurance policy upon the death of the insured. This designation is crucial as it directly determines who will gain the financial benefit intended by the policyholder.

In a life insurance context, the beneficiary can be a family member, friend, or even a trust or charity. They have no direct ties to the contract beyond being the recipient of the benefits and are not necessarily involved in the policy's management or ownership. This distinction is important, as it allows for clear financial planning, ensuring that the policyholder's intentions are honored after their passing.

In contrast, the insured is the person whose life is covered by the insurance policy, while the owner and policyholder refer to the individual who has purchased the policy and is responsible for its terms, respectively. These roles do not equate to the receipt of benefits upon death, thereby solidifying the "beneficiary" as the correct term for someone who receives the death benefit.