The Importance of Letter of Instruction: Ensuring Your Wishes Are Known

A letter of instruction is a valuable document that complements your estate plan by providing detailed guidance and instructions to your loved ones and beneficiaries. While not legally binding like a will or trust, a letter of instruction serves as a roadmap for executing your final wishes and ensuring that your affairs are handled according to your preferences.

Clarifying Your Intentions

A letter of instruction allows you to communicate your wishes and intentions in a personal and detailed manner:

• Funeral and Burial Preferences: Specify your preferences for funeral arrangements, burial or cremation, and any specific instructions for memorial services.
• Financial Matters: Provide information about your financial accounts, assets, debts, and any outstanding obligations, as well as instructions for accessing and managing these accounts.
• Personal Belongings: Identify specific items or heirlooms and indicate who should receive them, helping to prevent disputes and ensure that sentimental items are distributed according to your wishes.

Managing Digital Assets

A letter of instruction can also address digital assets and online accounts:

• Online Accounts: Provide login credentials and instructions for accessing email, social media, banking, and other online accounts.
• Digital Assets: Identify digital assets such as cryptocurrency, domain names, and digital media, and specify how they should be managed or distributed.

Personal Messages and Final Wishes

In addition to practical instructions, a letter of instruction can include personal messages, final wishes, and expressions of love and gratitude to your family and friends.

Conclusion

A letter of instruction is a valuable tool for ensuring that your wishes are known and respected after your passing. By providing clear guidance and instructions to your loved ones, you can ease the burden on your heirs and ensure that your affairs are handled according to your preferences.