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Writing a Letter of Instruction

Real estate agent giving explanations on tablet to senior couple

All too often, people overlook a simple letter of instruction as a way to explain their most emotional and sentimental reasons behind their estate choices.

Many have a will, a healthcare power of attorney and a financial power of attorney in place. And some even have more advanced estate management tools. However, those documents are not designed to show your hopes and dreams for your family.

“A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is God in His holy dwelling.” Psalm 68:5

A letter of instruction is not a legal document, so there are limits on what it can do. Therefore, take our short quiz to sharpen your understanding of the pros and cons of a letter of instruction.1,2,3

Writing a Letter of Instruction

1 / 10

You can add a section to your letter of instruction that can help the executor of your will interpret the legal document.

2 / 10

A letter of instruction should not provide any details about how to care for any pets that are left behind.

3 / 10

Nobody is required to abide by the terms of your letter of instruction. So, if something is important, consider placing the idea in a legal document.

4 / 10

Ask your lawyer to write your letter of instruction.

5 / 10

A well-written letter of instruction can help expedite your estate process and might make things more manageable for everyone involved.

6 / 10

There are no formal writing rules for a letter of instruction. However, to help your executor, you should consider adding information like the location of any real estate titles, the location of safe deposit boxes and their keys, and any account passwords.

7 / 10

Lock up your letter of instruction. You want to keep the contents private.

8 / 10

Your letter of instruction is a good place to explain your ideas for your funeral proceedings.

9 / 10

If you have more advanced estate management tools, there’s no need for a letter or instruction.

10 / 10

To be recognized, a letter of instruction should be notarized.

Your score is

The average score is 81%

0%

Pro Tip: We introduced Everplans to our clients several years ago to help manage estate issues, as well as other types of financial preparations. We would be happy to send you an invitation to Everplans. If you’re not ready to start with Everplans, we have other tools that you can use.

Answer key:
1. True.
2. False. A letter of instruction is a great place to discuss pet care.
3. True.
4. False. Most lawyers will encourage people to write their own letters.
5. True.
6. True.
7. False. Your letter should be easily accessible and kept with your other estate documents.
8. True.
9. False. A letter should express your wishes and desires. More advanced estate management tools serve other roles.
10. False. A letter of instruction is an informal document. There’s no need to have it notarized.


8—10 Correct: You’ve done some homework on a letter of instruction!
5—7 Correct: With a little help, you’re ready to create or update your letter of instruction.
0—4 Correct: You have some insights. We’re ready to help when you want to start!

  1. Fidelity.com, November 8, 2024

  2. help.TrustAndWill.com, October 23, 2024.

  3. Investopedia.com, January 23, 2025.

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