Blog

We keep you up-to-date on the latest tax changes and news in the industry.

A Map for Your Family's Future

A will remains an essential legal document that dictates how your estate should be distributed upon your death. It forms the foundation of the probate process and provides clear instructions for your heirs. However, in today’s digital and complex financial world, supplementing your will with a letter of instruction is more important than ever.

A letter of instruction, though it holds no legal status, can offer vital information to help your loved ones efficiently settle your estate and move forward with their lives. Think of it as a personalized map guiding your family through a challenging time.

Unlike a will, which must adhere to legal guidelines specific to your state and often requires an attorney’s assistance, a letter of instruction can be written in any manner you choose. Here are some key topics you might consider including in your updated letter:

  1. Financial Accounts and Digital Assets

    • List all financial accounts with account numbers, including online banking, investment portfolios, and retirement accounts.

    • Include usernames and passwords for digital assets like cryptocurrency wallets, social media accounts, and any other online services you manage.

    • If you’re uncomfortable providing usernames and passwords, ensure that the executor can access accounts with the account numbers and your Social Security number.

  2. Important Documents and Their Locations

    • Clearly identify where critical documents are stored, including your will, insurance policies, tax returns, bank and investment statements, real estate deeds, vehicle titles, Social Security and Medicare cards, marriage/divorce papers, and birth certificates.

    • Include any digital copies stored in secure cloud services and instructions for accessing them.

  3. Professional Contacts

    • Provide contact information for your attorney, financial advisor, insurance agent, accountant, and other key individuals who handle your financial and legal affairs.

  4. Bills and Creditors

    • List all outstanding debts, including the names of creditors, amounts owed, payment schedules, and any relevant account details.

    • Provide instructions on how these bills should be paid, especially if you have automatic payments set up.

  5. Final Wishes

    • Detail your wishes regarding burial or cremation, the type of funeral or memorial service you prefer, organ donation, and any charitable contributions to be made in your memory.

    • This is also an appropriate place to share personal messages, life lessons, or other thoughts you want to pass on to your loved ones.

  6. Regular Reviews and Updates

    • Set a reminder to review and update your letter of instruction periodically. Life changes, such as new financial accounts, additional assets, or altered final wishes, should be reflected in this document.

By taking the time to create and regularly update a letter of instruction, you are providing your family with a valuable tool to navigate the difficult process of settling your estate. Your loved ones will be grateful for the clarity and guidance it provides during an emotionally challenging time.

If you need help drafting or updating your will or letter of instruction, we can refer you to several lawyers who can help. 

Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .