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Energy Transfer Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Energy Transfer Energy Transfer employees typically rely on employer-sponsored health insurance plans, which are often managed through major healthcare providers like UnitedHealthcare, BlueCross BlueShield, or Aetna, depending on the specific agreements and market presence in their regions. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 Looking ahead to 2026, Energy Transfer employees may face significant healthcare challenges as premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans are projected to surge sharply, with some states reporting hikes of over 60%. The anticipated expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies is expected to exacerbate this situation, pushing average out-of-pocket premiums up by more than 75% for many individuals. As medical costs continue to rise-driven by increased hospital expenses, specialty drugs, and systemic inflation-Energy Transfer employees should prepare for a substantial shift in their healthcare expenses, making it crucial to evaluate options early and strategically plan for the upcoming changes. Click here to learn more

'Energy Transfer 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.

'Energy Transfer 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 Energy Transfer 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 Energy Transfer 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 Energy Transfer 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 Energy Transfer 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 Energy Transfer 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 Energy Transfer 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 Energy Transfer 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 primary purpose of Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

How can I enroll in Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Energy Transfer offer a company match for contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Energy Transfer offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which enhances the overall retirement savings for employees.

What types of investment options are available in Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan typically offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

Can I change my contribution amount to Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amount to Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to any plan-specific guidelines.

What is the vesting schedule for the company match in Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The vesting schedule for the company match in Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan may vary, but typically employees become fully vested after a certain number of years of service.

Are there any fees associated with Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How can I access my account information for Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can access their account information for Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan through the plan's online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to my 401(k) Savings Plan account if I leave Energy Transfer?

If you leave Energy Transfer, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan account, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.

Can I take a loan from my 401(k) Savings Plan at Energy Transfer?

Yes, Energy Transfer's 401(k) Savings Plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.

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

Energy Transfer offers a 401(k) plan with company match and discretionary profit-sharing contributions. The plan includes various investment options and financial planning resources.

Energy Transfer offers RSUs to its executives and key employees. RSUs vest over multiple years, aligning employee interests with long-term company goals.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Energy Transfer at 8111 Westchester Dr Dallas, TX 75225; or by calling them at (214) 981-0700.