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Columbia Sportswear Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

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'Columbia Sportswear 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.

'Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 Columbia Sportswear 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 401(k) plan offered by Columbia Sportswear?

The 401(k) plan at Columbia Sportswear is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future while benefiting from tax advantages.

How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Columbia Sportswear?

Employees can enroll in the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department.

Does Columbia Sportswear offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Columbia Sportswear provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the vesting schedule for the 401(k) match at Columbia Sportswear?

The vesting schedule for the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) match typically follows a standard timeline, where employees earn ownership of the company match over a period of time.

Can employees make changes to their 401(k) contributions at Columbia Sportswear?

Yes, employees at Columbia Sportswear can change their contribution amounts or investment options at any time, subject to certain guidelines.

What investment options are available in the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan?

The Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Is there a minimum contribution requirement for the Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan?

Yes, Columbia Sportswear may have a minimum contribution requirement for employees wishing to participate in the 401(k) plan, which is outlined in the plan documents.

How does Columbia Sportswear’s 401(k) plan handle loans and withdrawals?

Employees can take loans or make withdrawals from their Columbia Sportswear 401(k) plan under certain conditions, such as financial hardship, as specified in the plan guidelines.

What resources does Columbia Sportswear provide to help employees understand their 401(k) options?

Columbia Sportswear offers educational resources, workshops, and access to financial advisors to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) options.

When can employees at Columbia Sportswear start contributing to their 401(k)?

Employees at Columbia Sportswear can typically start contributing to their 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, as defined in the plan.

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

Columbia Sportswear announced a restructuring plan involving a reduction of 10% of its workforce.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Columbia Sportswear at 14375 NW Science Park Drive Portland, OR 97229; or by calling them at (503) 985-4000.