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EOG Resources Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

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'EOG Resources 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.

'EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources 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 EOG Resources offer to its employees?

EOG Resources offers a 401(k) Savings Plan to help employees save for retirement.

Is participation in the EOG Resources 401(k) plan mandatory for all employees?

Participation in the EOG Resources 401(k) plan is voluntary; employees can choose whether or not to enroll.

What is the employer match for contributions made to the EOG Resources 401(k) plan?

EOG Resources provides a matching contribution up to a certain percentage of the employee's salary, which is detailed in the plan documents.

How can employees at EOG Resources enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees at EOG Resources can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What investment options are available in the EOG Resources 401(k) plan?

The EOG Resources 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

Can EOG Resources employees change their contribution percentage at any time?

Yes, employees at EOG Resources can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to plan rules.

What is the vesting schedule for EOG Resources' employer contributions to the 401(k) plan?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions at EOG Resources typically follows a set timeline, which is outlined in the plan documents.

Are loans available from the EOG Resources 401(k) plan?

Yes, EOG Resources allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions.

What happens to the 401(k) savings if an employee leaves EOG Resources?

If an employee leaves EOG Resources, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) savings into another retirement account, withdraw the funds, or leave the savings in the EOG Resources plan, subject to plan rules.

Does EOG Resources offer financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, EOG Resources provides financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

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

EOG Resources provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan to its employees as the primary retirement option. The EOG Resources 401(k) plan allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary, which is often matched by the company. For 2024, the IRS limit for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan is $23,000, with an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500 available to those aged 50 or older (Empower) (Investopedia). EOG Resources contributes to the 401(k) plan by matching up to 6% of the employee's salary (Empower). EOG Resources does not provide a traditional pension plan (defined benefit plan) for its employees, following the trend where many private companies offer defined contribution plans such as 401(k) over pensions (EOG Resources, Inc. ). Instead, the company's focus is on its 401(k) plan, which provides investment options like mutual funds, stocks, and bonds (Investopedia). Employees bear the risk for investment outcomes under this plan, as it does not guarantee specific payouts, unlike traditional pension plans

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, EOG Resources announced a strategic restructuring plan to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. This restructuring included a reduction of 5% in the workforce, impacting approximately 200 employees. The move was aimed at optimizing operational performance and adapting to fluctuating oil prices. This restructuring is significant due to the current economic environment, where companies are adjusting their workforce to cope with market uncertainties and inflation. The investment and tax implications of such layoffs can affect individual retirement accounts and savings. Company Benefits and Retirement Plans: EOG Resources has also made changes to its benefits program, including adjustments to its pension and 401(k) plans. The company introduced a new matching policy for its 401(k) plan, which now includes a 4% match compared to the previous 3%. Additionally, the pension plan has been modified to provide more flexibility for early retirement. These changes are crucial in light of the current political climate, which influences retirement policy and tax regulations. Understanding these adjustments can help employees make informed decisions about their retirement planning.

Stock Options & RSUs: 2022: EOG Resources provided stock options and RSUs as part of their employee compensation package. The company used the acronym SO for stock options and RSU for restricted stock units. Eligible employees included executives and senior managers. 2023: EOG Resources continued to offer stock options (SO) and RSUs (RSU) as a significant component of their compensation strategy. These were available to senior leadership and key employees. 2024: For 2024, EOG Resources maintained their practice of issuing stock options (SO) and RSUs (RSU) to eligible employees, including top executives and high-performing staff. The company emphasized these as tools for retention and performance alignment.

URL: EOG Resources Careers Details: The official website will provide the most accurate and updated information about employee health benefits, including details on plans offered, eligibility, and any recent updates or changes. LinkedIn (Company Profile) URL: EOG Resources LinkedIn Details: The company’s LinkedIn profile often shares updates and posts about employee benefits and company news that may include information on health benefits. Glassdoor URL: EOG Resources Glassdoor Details: Glassdoor provides employee reviews and ratings that often include information about health benefits and employee experiences. Indeed URL: EOG Resources Indeed Details: Indeed also offers insights into employee benefits based on reviews and company profiles. Payscale URL: EOG Resources Payscale Details: Payscale provides salary information and sometimes details about employee benefits, including health-related benefits.

Additional Articles

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for EOG Resources at , ; or by calling them at .

https://finance.yahoo.com/ https://www.bloomberg.com/asia https://www.reuters.com/ https://www.thelayoff.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/eog-resources https://www.pbgc.gov/ https://exxonmobilbenefits.com/