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Charles River Laboratories International Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

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'Charles River Laboratories International 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.

'Charles River Laboratories International 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:

Why a letter of instruction can support your estate plan.
What to include in a letter of instruction.
How Charles River Laboratories International 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 Charles River Laboratories International 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 Charles River Laboratories International 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 Charles River Laboratories International 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 Charles River Laboratories International 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 Charles River Laboratories International 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 Charles River Laboratories International 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 type of retirement savings plan does Charles River Laboratories International offer?

Charles River Laboratories International offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Charles River Laboratories International match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Charles River Laboratories International provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the 401(k) plan at Charles River Laboratories International?

Employees of Charles River Laboratories International are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

How can employees of Charles River Laboratories International enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department at Charles River Laboratories International.

What investment options are available in the 401(k) plan at Charles River Laboratories International?

Charles River Laboratories International offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can employees of Charles River Laboratories International take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Charles River Laboratories International allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's rules and regulations.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions in the 401(k) plan at Charles River Laboratories International?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions at Charles River Laboratories International may vary, but typically follows a graded vesting schedule over several years.

How often can employees of Charles River Laboratories International change their 401(k) contributions?

Employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines set by Charles River Laboratories International.

Are there any fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Charles River Laboratories International?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Charles River Laboratories International, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

What resources does Charles River Laboratories International provide to help employees manage their 401(k) investments?

Charles River Laboratories International provides educational resources, access to financial advisors, and online tools to help employees manage their 401(k) investments.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Update: In 2024, Charles River Laboratories International has announced a significant overhaul of its 401(k) plan, which includes increasing the company match percentage and introducing a new vesting schedule. This change is aimed at improving employee retention and competitive positioning. The update is crucial in the current economic environment where employees are seeking better retirement benefits amid economic uncertainty.

Restructuring Layoffs: Charles River Laboratories announced a workforce reduction in early 2024. The company is consolidating its facilities and focusing on higher-margin services, resulting in layoffs primarily affecting administrative and support roles. This restructuring is part of their broader strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs amidst economic uncertainty.

Charles River Laboratories International Stock Options and RSUs 2022 Stock Options: Charles River Laboratories International granted stock options primarily to executives and senior management. These options typically had a vesting period of 4 years with annual vesting in 25% increments. RSUs: RSUs were awarded to a broader employee base, including senior executives and key employees. These units generally vested over a period of 3 years with a performance component tied to company goals. Availability: Stock options and RSUs were part of the company's broader compensation package to attract and retain top talent, with specific allocations based on role and performance. 2023 Stock Options: Charles River Laboratories International continued to offer stock options, mainly to higher-level executives and employees in strategic roles. The options typically had a 4-year vesting schedule with performance criteria. RSUs: In 2023, Charles River Laboratories International expanded its RSU program to include mid-level management. The vesting schedule remained similar, with a 3-year timeline and performance metrics. Availability: Both stock options and RSUs were used to incentivize employees and align their interests with company performance, with allocation levels varying by position and individual performance. 2024 Stock Options: For 2024, Charles River Laboratories International maintained its stock option program, focusing on key positions and high performers. The vesting schedule continued to be spread over 4 years. RSUs: The RSU program for 2024 included adjustments to address market conditions and employee retention. The vesting period stayed at 3 years, with an increased emphasis on performance-based criteria. Availability: The stock options and RSUs were integral to the company’s compensation strategy, aimed at rewarding contributions and aligning employee interests with the company’s long-term goals.

Charles River Laboratories International offers a range of health benefits designed to support employee well-being. For the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, the company has implemented comprehensive healthcare coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance. In 2023, Charles River Laboratories introduced a new Health Savings Account (HSA) option for employees, allowing for more flexible contributions and tax advantages. Additionally, the company provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support mental health and work-life balance. Recent updates also include enhanced telehealth services and expanded coverage for preventive care. In the current economic and political climate, Charles River Laboratories' healthcare offerings play a crucial role in attracting and retaining talent. As the investment landscape evolves, the company's commitment to comprehensive healthcare benefits helps mitigate employee concerns about medical costs and access to care. This focus on health benefits is particularly relevant amid ongoing discussions about healthcare policy reforms and economic fluctuations, which can impact both corporate budgets and employee well-being. As such, Charles River Laboratories' proactive approach to healthcare is an important factor in maintaining employee satisfaction and organizational stability.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Charles River Laboratories International at 251 Ballardvale St. Wilmington, MA 1887; or by calling them at 1-781-222-6000.

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