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Digital Realty Trust Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

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'Digital Realty Trust 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.

'Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust 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 Digital Realty Trust offer to its employees?

Digital Realty Trust offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Digital Realty Trust match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Digital Realty Trust provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the eligibility requirement for employees to participate in the Digital Realty Trust 401(k) plan?

Employees of Digital Realty Trust are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

Can employees of Digital Realty Trust choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, employees of Digital Realty Trust can select from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Digital Realty Trust 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Digital Realty Trust 401(k) plan aligns with the IRS limits, which may change annually.

Does Digital Realty Trust offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Digital Realty Trust offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Digital Realty Trust?

If you leave Digital Realty Trust, you can either roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account or leave it in the Digital Realty Trust plan, subject to the plan's rules.

Are there any fees associated with the Digital Realty Trust 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Digital Realty Trust 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the Digital Realty Trust 401(k) plan?

Employees of Digital Realty Trust can change their contribution amounts at designated times throughout the year, as outlined in the plan guidelines.

Does Digital Realty Trust provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, Digital Realty Trust offers educational resources and tools to help employees understand their 401(k) plan options and investment choices.

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

Digital Realty Trust offers a 401(k) plan known as the "Digital Realty Trust, L.P. 401(K) PLAN" through Fidelity. This plan covers approximately 1,499 employees, providing them with options for retirement savings. Employees are eligible to contribute to the 401(k) plan, and Digital Realty Trust offers a matching contribution to help enhance retirement savings. As for pension plans, the details specific to Digital Realty Trust employees include qualifications based on years of service and age, but further specifics regarding the pension formula or plan name were not explicitly detailed in the documents reviewed. The 401(k) plan information and general retirement benefits were outlined across various documents, including retirement plan comparison charts for 2023 and specific plan details

Restructuring and Layoffs: Digital Realty Trust announced a series of layoffs and organizational restructuring in late 2023. This decision was driven by the need to streamline operations and reduce costs amid a challenging economic environment. The company aimed to enhance operational efficiency and better align its workforce with its strategic goals. Importance: Addressing these changes is crucial due to the current economic climate, which has seen fluctuating market conditions and increased pressure on companies to optimize their operations. Understanding these moves helps in assessing the broader impact on the job market and corporate strategies.

Digital Realty Trust (DLR) offers a combination of stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their compensation packages, particularly aimed at executives and high-level employees. These incentives are designed to align employee interests with the company’s performance and long-term shareholder value. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Digital Realty Trust issued RSUs under its long-term incentive plans (LTIPs), granted based on performance metrics and tenure. Stock options typically follow a vesting schedule, where employees gain the right to exercise options after specific periods. RSUs at Digital Realty Trust are often given to senior management and other key contributors to foster retention and incentivize long-term growth. Eligibility for these programs typically includes employees at the Director level and above, but some RSUs are also extended to other tiers as part of strategic retention efforts. Digital Realty (DLR) emphasizes using performance-based RSUs to drive business outcomes and reward top talent, aligning with the company’s broader financial goals.

Digital Realty Trust Careers Page: The company's official website provides a general overview of employee benefits, including health insurance options, wellness programs, and employee assistance programs. However, detailed specifics for each year may not be available on the website. Employee reviews on Glassdoor suggest that Digital Realty Trust offers competitive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Employees have noted that the company provides a range of wellness programs and preventive care options. Indeed: Similar to Glassdoor, Indeed reviews highlight that the company provides comprehensive health insurance options and wellness benefits. Specific details about annual changes in benefits might be less clear.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Digital Realty Trust at 120 Kearny St, Suite 800 San Francisco, CA 94104; or by calling them at (415) 738-6500.

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