Q: How does a letter of instruction help my family?

A: Besides providing your family with the peace of mind of knowing your wishes are carried out, it also saves them from having to make difficult decisions during a time of intense emotional distress.

Q: What should I include in my letter of instruction?

A: A well-written letter of instruction includes the following:

• Names and contact information for key persons (attorney, CPA, trust advisor, wealth advisor, insurance advisor, clergy/church, doctor, etc.)
• Contact information for debtors such as mortgage company, loans and credit cards
• The location of any important documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, tax returns, Social Security statements, titles/deeds, properties, etc.
• A list of online accounts, such as investment accounts, insurance accounts, bank accounts and online accounts (Facebook, iTunes, Twitter, etc.)
• The location of keys for property and lock-boxes
• Contact information for your human resources department (if still employed)
• Instructions for final arrangements
• Instructions for gifting on your behalf (i.e. “In lieu of flowers please donate to…”)
• Instructions for dispersion of personal property such as jewelry, collections, heirlooms, etc.
• Instructions for taking care of your pet (include new caregiver, veterinarian, etc.)

Q: How do I share what I want for my final arrangement?

A: Put it in writing in a location where your family will know where to find it. For clients of Mariner, we recommend using MarinerGPS, where your instructions can be uploaded, stored and accessed anywhere in the world.

Q: Where do I begin when creating a letter of instruction?

A: Begin by talking with your wealth advisor; he or she will be able to help you gather many of the items listed above and help ensure they are organized and protected.

Mariner is the marketing name for the financial services businesses of Mariner Wealth Advisors, LLC and its subsidiaries. Investment advisory services are provided through the brands Mariner Wealth, Mariner Independent, Mariner Institutional, Mariner Ultra, and Mariner Workplace, each of which is a business name of the registered investment advisory entities of Mariner. For additional information about each of the registered investment advisory entities of Mariner, including fees and services, please contact Mariner or refer to each entity’s Form ADV Part 2A, which is available on the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training.