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D.R. Horton Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for D.R. Horton D.R. Horton, being a major homebuilding company, typically provides health insurance through large insurers like UnitedHealthcare and Cigna. These providers offer a range of plans to support D.R. Horton employees and their families, including options for both individual and family coverage. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare consumers can expect significant premium increases, particularly driven by the looming expiration of enhanced federal subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. Reports indicate that some individuals may face premium hikes of up to 75%, severely impacting access to affordable healthcare. Coupled with rising medical costs-amplified by inflation and increased demand for services-these changes could place a substantial financial burden on employees and their families. The combination of these factors suggests that proactive planning in 2025 will be essential for managing the coming year's healthcare expenses. Click here to learn more

'D.R. Horton 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.

'D.R. Horton 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 D.R. Horton 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 D.R. Horton 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 D.R. Horton 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 D.R. Horton 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 D.R. Horton 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 D.R. Horton 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 D.R. Horton 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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Articles you may find interesting:

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 D.R. Horton offer to its employees?

D.R. Horton offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Is there a company match for contributions made to the D.R. Horton 401(k) plan?

Yes, D.R. Horton provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

How can employees enroll in the D.R. Horton 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the D.R. Horton 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement for D.R. Horton employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Generally, D.R. Horton employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.

Can D.R. Horton employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, D.R. Horton allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the D.R. Horton 401(k) plan?

The D.R. Horton 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How often can D.R. Horton employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

D.R. Horton employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at designated times throughout the year, as specified in the plan rules.

What is the vesting schedule for D.R. Horton’s company match in the 401(k) plan?

The vesting schedule for D.R. Horton’s company match typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the match over time.

Are there any fees associated with managing the D.R. Horton 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with managing the D.R. Horton 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents and annual statements.

How can D.R. Horton employees access their 401(k) account information?

D.R. Horton employees can access their 401(k) account information online through the plan’s designated website or by contacting the plan administrator.

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

D.R. Horton offers its employees both a defined contribution pension plan and a 401(k) plan, known as the D.R. HORTON, INC. PROFIT SHARING PLUS PLAN. The 401(k) plan is managed through Empower and is available to 9,393 employees as of the latest data. This plan allows participants to contribute a portion of their salary towards their retirement savings, with D.R. Horton offering a matching contribution. Typically, the company matches 50% of employee contributions up to a certain percentage of their salary. The defined contribution pension plan provided by D.R. Horton also plays a key role in helping employees build a secure financial future. While specific details on eligibility requirements like years of service and age qualification are not publicly available, the defined contribution nature of the plan suggests that the benefits are likely based on the total contributions made by both the employee and the employer over time.

Pension Liability Concerns: D.R. Horton has seen fluctuations in its pension liabilities over the past few years. The company’s pension liabilities in 2023 were reportedly stable, though previous years have shown variability. Monitoring these liabilities is essential in understanding the company’s long-term financial commitments. Importance: It's crucial to address this news given the potential impact of economic shifts and tax regulations on the housing market and employee benefits, which can directly influence D.R. Horton's financial stability.

Stock Options (SOs): Employees of D.R. Horton may be granted stock options that allow them to purchase company stock at a predetermined price after a certain vesting period. This price is usually set at the market value of the stock on the grant date. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs): RSUs are another form of equity compensation offered by D.R. Horton, where employees are granted units that convert into shares of company stock once certain conditions, such as time-based vesting, are met. Eligibility and Availability: D.R. Horton's stock options and RSUs are typically made available to key employees and executives, though the exact eligibility criteria may vary depending on the employee's role, performance, and tenure with the company. These equity incentives are part of D.R. Horton’s broader strategy to retain top talent and incentivize performance. For example, D.R. Horton’s recent filings indicate continued use of these compensation tools through 2022, 2023, and 2024, with ongoing reviews and updates to their stock option and RSU plans to remain competitive in the market. These incentives are detailed in the company's SEC filings and earnings reports, which are publicly available for shareholders and interested parties to review

D.R. Horton offers a comprehensive health benefits package to its employees, focusing on both short-term and long-term well-being. The company's healthcare offerings include standard health insurance plans, dental and vision coverage, flexible spending accounts (FSAs), and health savings accounts (HSAs) paired with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). These plans provide employees with a wide range of coverage options, from basic preventative care to more comprehensive services.

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for D.R. Horton employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for D.R. Horton at 1341 Horton Cir Arlington, TX 76011; or by calling them at (817) 390-8200.

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