Letter of Instructions for Estate Planning: Why You Should Put It in Writing
American actor Lee Marvin once joked that as soon as people saw his face on a movie screen, they knew two things: he wasn’t going to get the girl, and he’d get a cheap funeral before the picture was over.
Most people don’t spend much time thinking about their own funeral. Yet many of us do have a vision for our memorial service or how we’d like our remains handled. A letter of instructions for estate planning can help you put that vision into words.
A letter of instructions is not a legal document. It’s simply a letter, written by you, that provides additional and more personal information about your estate. You can address it to whomever you choose — but it’s typically written to an executor, family members, or beneficiaries.
Florida residents working through their estate planning documents often find that a letter of instructions is one of the simplest, most personal pieces of the process to put together.
What Should a Letter of Instructions Include?
Think of a letter of instructions to your executor as a cheat sheet to your estate. It won’t replace your will, but it makes life much easier for the people handling your affairs.
Key Information to Include
Consider including the following in your estate planning instructions:
- Location of important legal documents — your will, insurance policies, vehicle titles, property deeds, and similar records.
- A list of financial assets — savings and checking accounts, stocks, bonds, and retirement accounts. Include account numbers, PINs, and passwords where applicable (this is sometimes called a stock instruction or asset list).
- Pension or profit-sharing plan details — including where to find their explanatory booklets.
- Location of your latest tax return and Social Security statements.
- Location of any safe deposit boxes and their keys.
How to Identify Your Funeral Wishes in a Letter of Instructions
A letter of instructions is also a good place to record your burial or cremation wishes.
Consider including:
- The location of your cemetery plot deed, if you have one.
- Any hymns, readings, or speakers you’d like included in your memorial service.
- A list of contact information for people who should be notified when you pass away.
While a letter of instructions isn’t legally binding, your heirs will likely be glad to know how you’d like to be remembered.
Is There a Right Way to Write a Letter of Instructions?
There’s no single “best way” to write a letter of instructions for estate planning. It can be written in your own voice and reflect your personality, or it can simply convey the facts your family will need. The right approach depends on what fits your overall estate strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a letter of instructions for estate planning?
A letter of instructions is a non-legal document written by you that provides personal guidance and practical details about your estate — such as where to find important documents, financial accounts, and your funeral wishes — for your executor, family, or beneficiaries.
Is a letter of instructions legally binding?
No. A letter of instructions is not a legal document and is not legally binding, unlike a will. It’s meant to be a helpful guide that supplements your legal estate planning documents.
Who should receive a letter of instructions?
A letter of instructions is typically addressed to your executor, family members, or beneficiaries — whoever will be responsible for managing your affairs or would benefit from knowing your wishes.
What is the difference between a will and a letter of instructions?
A will is a legal document that directs how your assets are distributed and carries legal authority. A letter of instructions is not legal or binding — it simply provides additional, more personal information, such as account locations and funeral preferences, to help your executor and family.
What financial information should I include in my letter of instructions?
Include a list of your financial assets, such as savings and checking accounts, stocks, bonds, and retirement accounts. Be sure to note account numbers, PINs, and passwords where applicable, along with the location of pension or profit-sharing plan documents.
Should I include funeral wishes in my letter of instructions?
Yes. Many people use their letter of instructions to record burial or cremation preferences, the location of a cemetery plot deed, and any specific wishes for their memorial service, such as hymns or speakers.
Final Thoughts
A letter of instructions won’t replace your will, but it can make an emotional time much easier for the people you leave behind. Whether you’re finalizing your estate planning documents in Florida or elsewhere, taking the time to write one down is a simple way to make sure your wishes are known and your affairs are easier to manage.
Source: Brainyquote.com. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. This material is not intended as tax or legal advice and may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult a legal or tax professional for guidance specific to your individual situation. The opinions expressed are for general information only and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.
