Letter of instruction
A practical companion to your will. Fill in what you know, skip what doesn’t apply. We don’t store your information.
Not a legal document, and that’s the point.
A letter of instruction tells your executor where things are and what you want, without going through probate. Unlike your will, it never becomes public record. Keep it with your will in a safe place and tell your executor where to find it.
About you
Basic identifying information for your executor.
Location of important documents
Where your executor can find the originals.
Real property
Each property you own. Auto-filled from your questionnaire when you list real estate; edit as needed.
Vehicles
Cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, RVs, trailers. Note where the title is kept and any active loan.
Financial accounts
Help your executor locate and close or transfer each account. Never include full account numbers or passwords.
Bank accounts
Investment / brokerage accounts
Retirement accounts (IRA, 401k, 403b…)
Life insurance policies
Business interests
Companies, partnerships, and other entities you own all or part of. Include the buy-sell agreement or operating agreement location if applicable.
Tangible personal property
Furniture, art, jewelry, collections, tools, and other meaningful items. Reference any side memorandum or list distributing specific items.
Outstanding debts and bills
What your executor will need to settle. Mortgages, loans, credit cards, anything still owed.
Digital accounts and access
List important online accounts. Include username or email, not passwords. Direct your executor to your password manager for credentials.
Important contacts
People your executor may need to reach: fiduciaries, beneficiaries, and professional advisors (attorney, CPA, financial planner).
Minor children: day-one care
Optional. If you have minor children, what does the executor or guardian need to know in the first 24 hours? School, pediatrician, daily routine, who picks up if you're not available.
People and institutions to notify
Employer, Social Security, pension administrator, VA, professional associations, religious community, anyone who needs to be told quickly.
Firearms and special property
Firearms (with state-specific transfer rules), valuable collections, art, jewelry, anything that needs special handling or appraisal before transfer.
Household and practical information
Day-one logistics: mail, keys, alarm codes, neighbors, anything someone walking into your home would need to know.
Funeral and final wishes
Optional but meaningful. Spares your family difficult decisions under grief.
Pet care
Optional. If you have pets, your executor needs to arrange care immediately.
Special instructions
Anything else your executor or family should know.
Closing
Where this letter is stored, and a note that the most recent dated version supersedes any prior letter.
Ready to download?
We never see your letter.
Print it, sign it, and keep it with your will.
Enter your name in Section 1 to generate.
A letter of instruction is not a legal document and has no legal effect. It does not replace a will, trust, or other estate planning documents. Update it whenever your circumstances change.