Assets that don’t pass through probate in NC include:
Assets with a named beneficiary, such as life insurance payouts, retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs, and payable-on-death bank accounts. These assets pass directly to the named beneficiary.
Property held in joint tenancy with rights of survivorship. When one owner dies, the property passes directly to the surviving joint owner.
Assets placed in a living trust. Items in a trust avoid probate and are distributed according to the terms of the trust.
Payable-on-death transfers for vehicles, boats, etc. The asset goes directly to the named beneficiary.