In the context of life insurance, what happens to a contingent beneficiary if the primary beneficiary is alive?

In life insurance, the role of a contingent beneficiary is to receive the benefits only if the primary beneficiary is not alive at the time of the insured's death. If the primary beneficiary is alive when the insured passes away, the primary beneficiary receives the full benefit. Consequently, the contingent beneficiary receives nothing in that situation, as there is no triggering event (the death of the primary beneficiary) for them to receive the policy proceeds.

This system is designed to ensure that the benefits are directed to the primary beneficiary first, under the assumption that they are the intended recipient. The contingent beneficiary's designation serves as a backup plan but does not grant them rights to benefits as long as the primary beneficiary is available to take them.