Letter of Instruction: Example and Template
A letter of instruction is an informal letter to your family that explains what to do first if you die or become incapacitated. It is not a legal document and doesn't replace a will, but it fills the gaps a will doesn't cover: where things are, who to call, and what's urgent.
Letter of instruction vs. will
| Will | Letter of instruction | |
|---|---|---|
| Legally binding | Yes (if properly executed) | Generally no |
| Distributes property | Yes | No |
| Names a guardian for kids | Yes | Can repeat it, but the will controls |
| Says where things are | Rarely | Yes |
| Easy to update | Requires formalities | Anytime |
What to include
- Who to call first, with numbers
- Where the original will is and who the executor is
- Immediate care of children, dependents and pets
- Where your binder, documents and password plan are
- Anything urgent: medication someone relies on, a business, bills that must not lapse
- Funeral wishes, or where they're written down
One-page example
To Sarah and Michael,
If you are reading this, something has happened to me. I made this so you wouldn't have to search for everything.
- Call Aunt Linda first: (555) 010-2233. She knows the plan.
- My will is in the gray fire safe in the closet. The executor is Linda. The attorney is J. Patel, (555) 010-4455.
- Biscuit goes to the Hendersons next door; they have agreed and have a key.
- My binder is in the same safe. The password plan is on page 13.
- The mortgage autopays from the credit union checking account. Please keep the home insurance active.
Thank you. I love you both. — Mom, March 2027
Tips
- Sign and date it. Update it once a year.
- Keep it with the binder and tell your executor it exists.
- Keep it practical. Personal messages can go in separate letters.
The Just-In-Case Life Binder includes an editable letter of instruction, personal letter templates, pet care instructions and a home emergency sheet. For the full checklist, see what to put in an in-case-of-death binder.
Just-In-Case Life Binder — $17
19-page printable binder for everything your family would need to know, plus letter of instruction templates and a life inventory spreadsheet. Instant download: PDF + DOCX + XLSX.
Get the Just-In-Case Life BinderFamily Paperwork Bundle — $34More guides
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- What Your Family Needs To Know If You Die: 10 Things To Write Down Now
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- End-of-Life Planning Checklist: Get Your Affairs in Order
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- Emergency Binder for Aging Parents: What To Ask and Write Down
- Estate Planning Checklist for Young Families (Start Here)