Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Comfort Systems USA: Comfort Systems USA employs a range of healthcare providers to support its workforce, often partnering with major insurers like UnitedHealthcare and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield to offer coverage that suits its employees' needs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: In 2026, healthcare costs are expected to surge dramatically, particularly for members utilizing Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. Preliminary reports indicate that average premium increases may reach as high as 75% for many enrollees, driven by escalating medical expenses and the potential expiration of federal premium subsidies. These developments could significantly affect Comfort Systems USA employees, placing a greater financial burden on those who rely on marketplace insurance plans, thereby necessitating proactive financial planning to manage health expenses effectively. Click here to learn more
'Comfort Systems USA 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.
'Comfort Systems USA 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:
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Why a letter of instruction can support your estate plan.
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What to include in a letter of instruction.
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How Comfort Systems USA 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 Comfort Systems USA 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 Comfort Systems USA 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 Comfort Systems USA 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 Comfort Systems USA 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 Comfort Systems USA 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 Comfort Systems USA 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 plan does Comfort Systems USA offer to its employees?
Comfort Systems USA offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of Comfort Systems USA enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Comfort Systems USA can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form provided by the HR department or through the company’s benefits portal.
Does Comfort Systems USA match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Comfort Systems USA offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA?
The maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA is determined by IRS guidelines, which may change annually.
When can employees at Comfort Systems USA start contributing to their 401(k) plan?
Employees at Comfort Systems USA can start contributing to their 401(k) plan after completing their eligibility period, typically within the first few months of employment.
Are there any fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA?
Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the 401(k) plan at Comfort Systems USA, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
Can employees of Comfort Systems USA take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, employees of Comfort Systems USA may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What investment options are available in the Comfort Systems USA 401(k) plan?
The Comfort Systems USA 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Comfort Systems USA 401(k) plan?
Employees at Comfort Systems USA can typically change their contribution amounts on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan guidelines.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Comfort Systems USA?
If an employee leaves Comfort Systems USA, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out, subject to tax implications.
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