This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
A letter of instruction is a cheat sheet for anyone involved in settling your affairs. Unlike a will, this letter has no legal authority. However, it can provide an easy-to-understand explanation of your overall estate plan to your executor and lay out your wishes to your family for things not covered by the will.
It's not a replacement for a will, and in fact it's not even a legal document. But it can be incorporated into the necessary legal documents as a guide and the key to making sure everything is accounted for and accessible to the family members left behind.
A beneficiary letter of instruction should include the names and contact information of your beneficiaries, as well as their relationship to you. It should also specify how you would like the assets in your bank account to be distributed and any other instructions or wishes you may have.
It's a good way to let to those trusted to take care of your affairs know what you would want them to know. Since the letter of instruction is not a legal document, it does not need to be notarized or signed in the presence of witnesses or with any other special formality.
Bank Accounts Held in Trust After your death, when the person you chose to be your successor trustee takes over, the funds will be transferred to the beneficiary you named in your trust document. No probate will be necessary. To transfer the account to your trust, tell the bank what you want to do.
A good letter of instruction should contain the following information: A complete list of all assets. The whereabouts of any tangible assets that are not readily accessible. Necessary information about all liquid assets, including bank, brokerage, retirement, and investment accounts.
A letter of instruction is an informal letter to an executor, personal representative, and/or other family members that provides important information about your assets and final wishes after death.
A letter of instruction is a document that lists all of your important financial account information in one place. This important estate planning document is intended to help your family members (or executors) if something happens to you.