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Catalent Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Catalent Catalent, a prominent player in the biopharmaceutical industry, collaborates with various healthcare providers to optimize its services. One of the notable healthcare partners for Catalent is UnitedHealthcare, which often works with organizations like Catalent to ensure streamlined processes in drug delivery and related healthcare services. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly, primarily driven by looming federal policies and medical inflation. Reports indicate that Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums may surge due to the potential expiration of enhanced premium subsidies, causing many policyholders to face out-of-pocket increases of over 75%. Insurers are already proposing steep rate hikes, with some states expected to see increases as high as 66%. This combination of factors, including rising healthcare service costs and more aggressive premium strategies from insurers, is set to intensify financial pressures on consumers in the coming year. Click here to learn more

'Catalent employees can bring more clarity to their estate plans by using a well-organized letter of instruction, which is a practical way to help families navigate important decisions with greater confidence.' — Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Catalent employees can create a smoother transition for their families by using a clear letter of instruction, which can be an effective way to support loved ones during estate administration.' — Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

  1. Why a letter of instruction can support your estate plan.

  2. What to include in a letter of instruction.

  3. How Catalent employees can use a letter of instruction to help streamline estate administration.

Important Lessons

Estate planning documents like a will and a revocable trust are important, but they might not give your family all the information they need to handle your affairs when you pass away, especially for Catalent employees with complex benefits.

In addition to an estate plan, a letter of instruction can offer your loved ones more information about your assets and personal preferences.

A letter of instruction can contain additional details, such as burial plans and the placement of essential documents, but it should not conflict with your estate planning documents.

Your loved ones might not know who to call, where to find your assets, or how to recognize reputable creditors if something were to happen to you today. By providing clear, supplemental guidance, a letter of instruction can help reduce the stress and work involved in the estate administration process.

A Letter of Instruction: What Is It?

A letter of instruction is an informal document outlining your assets and last wishes, sent to an executor, personal representative, or family members. It adds helpful information not included in legally binding estate planning documents like a will or revocable trust. For Catalent employees managing multiple retirement and savings plans, a letter of instruction can help simplify administration for family members, even though it is not legally required.

Since this letter is informal, it can be updated without consulting an attorney as circumstances change over time. It can contain supplementary information that supports your estate plan, but it should not contradict anything in your legal estate planning documentation.

How to Compose an Instructional Letter

Funeral Plans

You might provide information about your preferred funeral or burial type, funeral home, clergy member, music, speakers, or tribute. You can also include details about pre-paid or pre-arranged funeral or burial plans and where related paperwork is located. Some people also provide biographical details—something Catalent retirees can include for clarity.

Crucial Records

You can note the location of your Social Security card, recent bank account statements, deeds, titles, mortgage documents, important records, and estate planning documents. Some individuals also indicate where to find recent tax returns, which may help identify assets or income sources. If these documents are stored in a lockbox or vault, providing access instructions may be helpful.

Contact Details for Financial Representatives

The names and contact information for bankers, tax preparers, lawyers, insurance agents, real estate agents, and financial advisors can be included in the letter. These professionals can assist with background information, asset identification, account transfers, and final tax filings.

Details of the Assets

You can list your assets’ locations, titling, identifying details, and current values. This may include real estate, stock certificates, savings bonds, annuities, time shares, bank accounts, brokerage accounts, retirement accounts, company interests, safe deposit boxes, life insurance, and personal belongings with monetary or sentimental value.

Computer Files and Online Accounts

You may wish to list your digital files and accounts and designate a successor in your estate planning documents to manage them, since state and federal laws may limit access without written approval. For Catalent retirees who store retirement and benefits information online, this documentation may help reduce challenges.

Details of Debt

You can include information regarding your debts, such as account numbers, balances, statements, and lender contact details.

Beneficiary Details

The beneficiaries listed in your estate plan, along with their contact details, may be included in the letter. This makes it easier for an executor to locate and communicate with those who will receive assets—an important step for families with Catalent retirement accounts.

Pets

You can specify who you want to care for your pets and any specific instructions if your estate documents do not mention them. You may also include your veterinarian’s contact information.

Distribution List for Personal Property

Some states allow individuals to draft a separate document listing specific items of tangible personal property and their intended recipients, as long as the will references the list. Even in states where this is not legally binding, a letter of instruction can still guide your executor and help minimize disagreements.

Private Notes and Clarification of Goals

Some people include private notes or explanations for their decisions regarding inheritance or financial principles. Although not legally binding, these notes can help prevent misunderstandings.

What Does a Letter of Instruction Not Need to Include?

A letter of instruction should not repeat information already found in your estate planning documents. It is intended to provide additional details only.

It also should not be used to make changes to legally enforceable estate documents. Informal updates are not binding and may create conflicts.

Where to Store Your Instruction Letter

You can keep a copy of the letter with your estate planning papers, provide one to your lawyer, or place it somewhere your family is likely to look first. You can also share a copy with your executor and discuss it with them if you feel comfortable. Updating the letter each year is useful as assets and personal information change—particularly for Catalent employees with evolving retirement benefits.

Do You Need Guidance?

The Retirement Group can help you prepare for retirement if you are updating or creating your estate plan and want assistance organizing your family’s financial information. Call us at  (800) 900-5867 .

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Sources:

1. Parker, Craig. “How to Write a Letter of Instruction: A Step-by-Step Guide.” Trust & Will, n.d.,
https://trustandwill.com/learn/how-to-write-a-letter-of-instruction . Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

2. AARP Education & Outreach. “State Your Intentions With a Letter of Instruction.” AARP, 9 Nov. 2022,
https://www.aarp.org/money/retirement/letter-of-instruction/ . Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

3. Kuffel, Hunter. “Writing a Letter of Instruction for Your Estate Plan.” SmartAsset, 12 Oct. 2025,
https://smartasset.com/estate-planning/letter-of-instruction . Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

4. McDonald Jacobs. “Letter of Instruction in Estate Planning.” McDonald Jacobs: Portland, Oregon Accountants & Business Consultants, n.d.,
https://www.mcdonaldjacobs.cpa/letter-of-instruction-in-estate-planning/ . Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

What is the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or Roth after-tax basis.

How can I enroll in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting Human Resources for guidance on the enrollment process.

What are the eligibility requirements for the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

To be eligible for the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan, employees typically need to be at least 21 years old and have completed a specified period of service with the company.

Does Catalent offer a company match for the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Catalent offers a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

How much can I contribute to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can contribute up to the IRS annual limit to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan, which may vary each year. It’s important to check the current limits.

When can I start making contributions to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can start making contributions to the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan after they complete the eligibility requirements and enroll in the plan.

Can I change my contribution amount in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amount at any time during the year by accessing the benefits portal or contacting Human Resources.

What investment options are available in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.

How often can I change my investment allocations in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can change their investment allocations in the Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's trading restrictions.

What happens to my Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Catalent, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to another qualified plan, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Catalent plan if permitted.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Catalent's Pension Plan: Catalent offers a comprehensive retirement benefits package designed to support its employees' financial wellness. The primary pension plan provided by Catalent is known as the "Catalent Pension Plan." This plan includes a defined benefit formula based on an employee’s years of service and final average pay. Typically, to qualify for the pension plan, employees must have a minimum of five years of service and be at least 55 years of age. The specific pension formula details and eligibility criteria are laid out in the employee benefits documentation provided internally by Catalent​ (Catalent)​ (Catalent Investor Relations)​ (FiercePharma). Catalent's 401(k) Plan: Catalent also offers a 401(k) plan to its employees, which is referred to as the "Catalent 401(k) Savings Plan." Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan from their first day of employment. The company provides a generous matching contribution, where Catalent matches 50% of the first 6% of the employee's contributions. This plan is designed to help employees save for retirement with the added benefit of tax deferral on contributions and earnings​
Catalent has been undergoing significant restructuring since 2023, including multiple rounds of layoffs affecting various facilities. In late 2023, the company laid off approximately 300 employees as part of a cost-cutting initiative aimed at consolidating its facilities. This was followed by further layoffs in early 2024, including the reduction of 130 staff members at its Bloomington, Indiana site, which is being sold to Novo Nordisk as part of a broader $16.5 billion acquisition deal expected to close by the end of 2024. The restructuring is driven by reduced demand for COVID-19-related services and a need to increase efficiency and reduce costs across its operations. Importance: Addressing this news is crucial due to the current economic environment, where companies are navigating the aftermath of the pandemic, fluctuating demand, and economic pressures. These changes also reflect broader trends in the biopharma industry, where consolidation and cost-cutting measures are common as companies adjust to new market realities​
Stock Options: Catalent offers stock options to its employees as part of its long-term incentive plan. These options are designed to align the interests of employees with those of shareholders. Employees receive the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price, after a specified vesting period. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs): Catalent also provides RSUs to its employees, which represent a promise to deliver shares of the company's stock in the future. RSUs typically vest over a period of time, encouraging employees to remain with the company. Once vested, the RSUs are converted into shares, which the employee can then sell or hold.
Catalent offers a comprehensive suite of health benefits to its employees, designed to meet diverse needs and foster a healthy lifestyle. Their health insurance plans cover a wide range of medical services, emphasizing both personal and financial wellness. Employees have access to wellness programs, which aim to manage healthcare costs and encourage a healthy lifestyle. These programs include health insurance, wellness incentives, and various support resources to balance work and personal life, such as generous paid time off and flexible work arrangements. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Catalent continued to enhance its benefits offerings, aligning them with industry standards and employee needs. Recent updates include tuition reimbursement, global scholarship programs for employees' children, and comprehensive retirement plans. The company has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, receiving accolades as a “Best Place to Work for People with Disabilities” for consecutive years. Specific healthcare-related terms and acronyms frequently used by Catalent include "OptiDose® Design Solution," "RP Scherer Softgel Technology," and "OneXpress™ Solution," which refer to their proprietary technologies and approaches in pharmaceutical development and manufacturing. Recent employee healthcare news highlights Catalent's ongoing efforts to support employee well-being. For instance, their 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report details initiatives in employee health and wellness, such as investments in diverse and inclusive workplace practices and contributions to STEM education
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Catalent at 14 Schoolhouse Road Somerset, NJ 8873; or by calling them at +1 908-809-1300.

https://www.thelayoff.com/catalent https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/catalent-unveils-recent-300-person-layoff-round-it-awaits-165b-novo-buyout https://bloomingtonian.com/2023/05/31/catalent-to-cut-another-150-positions-and-reorganize-in-bloomington-indiana/ https://indianapublicmedia.org/news/catalent-cutting-130-positions-at-bloomington-facility-this-week.php https://investor.catalent.com/financial-news/news-details/2024/Catalent-Inc.-Reports-Third-Quarter-Fiscal-2024-Results/default.aspx https://careers.catalent.com/us/en/benefits https://www.cashbalancedesign.com/resources/contribution-limits/ https://www.emparion.com/cash-balance-pension-plan-faq/ https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/cash-balance-pension-plan-options https://www.futureplan.com/resources/news-articles/defined-benefit-cash-balance-plan-key-priorities/ https://investor.catalent.com/financial-news/news-details/2023/Catalent-Inc.-Reports-Preliminary-First-Quarter-Fiscal-2024-Results-and-Reaffirms-Full-Year-Fiscal-2024-Guidance/default.aspx https://careers.catalent.com/us/en/benefits https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/catalent-unveils-recent-300-person-layoff-round-it-awaits-165b-novo-buyout https://investor.catalent.com/ https://investor.catalent.com/financial-news/news-details/2023/Catalent-Inc.-Reports-Preliminary-Fourth-Quarter-and-Fiscal-2023-Results/default.aspx https://www.catalent.com/catalent-news/catalent-publishes-fourth-annual-corporate-responsibility-report/ https://annualreport.stocklight.com/nyse/ctlt/231007947.pdf https://creativeplanning.com/insights/financial-planning/how-to-use-the-net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-strategy-in-your-401k/ https://carlsoncap.com/articles/nua-net-unrealized-appreciation/ https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/retirement/company-stock https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/retirement/net-unrealized-appreciation-nua-tax-treatment-amp-strategies/c71vBJZ2B https://investor.catalent.com/financial-news/news-details/2024/Novo-Holdings-to-Acquire-Catalent/default.aspx https://www.catalent.com/catalent-news/novo-holdings-to-acquire-catalent/ https://www.dcatvci.org/features/manufacturing-fallout-of-novos-16-5-billion-acquisition-of-catalent/ https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/catalent-unveils-recent-300-person-layoff-round-it-awaits-165b-novo-buyout https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1kgvERTs https://contracts.justia.com/ https://www.sec.gov/

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