There are several moving parts to an effective estate plan. While you might feel like your will and trust documents are sufficient to spell out how your assets should be distributed upon your death, you might want to go a step further in justifying your actions. This is where a letter of instruction may prove beneficial.
What is a letter of instruction?
While having no binding legal effect, a letter of instruction can provide clarity and guidance to your loved ones. In this document, you can specify in clear terms why you divided your assets the way you did, and you can also identify where key assets and estate planning documents can be found. Your letter of instruction can also indicate how you want your final arrangements to play out and leave any comforting words to your loved ones.
The hidden value of a letter of instruction
While a letter of instruction can give guidance and peace of mind to your loved ones, it can also provide some legal value. Although the document itself doesn’t have any binding legal effect, it can serve as evidence of your mental clarity and your intent, which can be powerful if someone tries to challenge an aspect of your estate plan. So, even if you think that you don’t need a letter of instruction, it’s a good idea to draft one anyway to ensure that all your bases are covered.
Crafting a comprehensive estate plan
There’s a lot that goes into a well thought out and effective estate plan. If you want to learn more about what can and should go into yours, then don’t shy away from seeking out the answers you need. Only then can you rest easy that your affairs are in order, and that your assets and your loved ones are protected as you see fit.