Who is NOT typically a beneficiary of an employer-sponsored group term life insurance contract?

In an employer-sponsored group term life insurance contract, the beneficiaries are typically individuals or entities designated to receive the death benefit upon the insured employee's passing. The primary purpose of these contracts is to provide a financial benefit to the loved ones or designated beneficiaries of the employee.

The employer, however, is not a beneficiary in this context because the employer's role is that of a plan sponsor or administrator who facilitates the insurance coverage for employees. The benefits are intended to support the employees' dependents or other selected beneficiaries, not the employer. Therefore, it is not standard practice for an employer to be a beneficiary in this type of contract, as that would conflict with the essence of providing life insurance as a benefit to employees and their families.

In contrast, the employee’s estate, children, or a charity can all be considered valid beneficiaries since these entities can receive the death benefit directly, fulfilling the intended purpose of providing financial support in the event of the employee's death.