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Delta Air Lines Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Delta Air Lines: Delta Air Lines employees typically access healthcare services through a variety of providers. The specific healthcare provider network can vary by plan, but Delta often partners with major health insurance companies such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem (Elevance Health), and Cigna to offer health benefits to its employees. Brief on Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As healthcare costs continue to rise, Delta Air Lines employees should prepare for significant out-of-pocket expenses in 2026. With projections indicating that premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) policies could soar by as much as 66% in certain states, nearly 92% of marketplace enrollees could face increases of over 75% due to the expiration of federal subsidies. These factors, combined with rising medical costs and insurer profit pressures, suggest that employees may need to reassess their healthcare plans and budget accordingly, as many companies, including Delta, are likely to pass on more costs to workers. Click here to learn more

'Delta Air Lines 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.

'Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines 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 Delta Air Lines?

The 401(k) plan offered by Delta Air Lines is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out, helping them prepare for retirement.

How does Delta Air Lines match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Delta Air Lines offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which typically matches a percentage of the employee's contributions, up to a certain limit.

What are the eligibility requirements to participate in Delta Air Lines' 401(k) plan?

Employees of Delta Air Lines are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of service, which is outlined in the plan details.

Can Delta Air Lines employees change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at Delta Air Lines can change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

What investment options are available in Delta Air Lines' 401(k) plan?

Delta Air Lines provides a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Delta Air Lines' 401(k) plan?

Yes, Delta Air Lines has a vesting schedule for the employer match, meaning that employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How can Delta Air Lines employees access their 401(k) account information?

Delta Air Lines employees can access their 401(k) account information through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to my Delta Air Lines 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Delta Air Lines, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, leaving it with Delta, or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

Are there loans available against my 401(k) at Delta Air Lines?

Yes, Delta Air Lines allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the plan.

How often can I change my investment allocations in Delta Air Lines' 401(k) plan?

Employees at Delta Air Lines can change their investment allocations in the 401(k) plan as often as they like, following the plan's guidelines.

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

Delta Air Lines provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Delta matches up to 9% of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options, such as target-date funds, mutual funds, and a self-directed brokerage account. Delta also offers financial planning resources and tools to help employees manage their retirement savings.

Cummins is implementing layoffs to improve operational efficiencies and meet zero-emission goals. The company has offered voluntary retirement and separation packages to eligible employees and is focused on reducing middle management roles. Despite cost-cutting measures, Cummins continues to offer a comprehensive benefits package including a 401(k) plan. Staying informed about these benefits is crucial given the current political environment

Delta Air Lines provides RSUs that vest over time, giving employees shares of the company upon meeting vesting conditions. Stock options are also available, allowing employees to buy shares at a set price.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Delta Air Lines at 1030 Delta Blvd Atlanta, GA 30320; or by calling them at (404) 715-2600.