New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Flowserve Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Flowserve Flowserve Corporation partners with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield to provide healthcare plans and services for its employees. Anthem is noted for its extensive provider network and range of health insurance options, which includes access to various plans tailored to meet the diverse needs of Flowserve's workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are poised to escalate significantly, driven by expected record premium hikes in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With premium increases averaging 18% and some states experiencing hikes exceeding 60%, the impact on Flowserve employees could be notable. The expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies adds to the financial burden, potentially resulting in out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75% for many workers, raising concerns about accessibility and affordability of essential healthcare services as we move into the next year. Click here to learn more

'Flowserve 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.

'Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 Flowserve 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 .

Featured Video

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 savings plan does Flowserve offer to its employees?

Flowserve offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

How can Flowserve employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Flowserve employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Flowserve match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Flowserve offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution percentage that Flowserve employees can contribute to their 401(k)?

Flowserve employees can contribute up to the IRS limit, which is adjusted annually. Employees should check the latest guidelines for the current limit.

Are there any eligibility requirements for Flowserve employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Flowserve employees must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as a minimum length of service, to participate in the 401(k) plan.

Can Flowserve employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Flowserve allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What investment options are available in Flowserve's 401(k) plan?

Flowserve offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

How often can Flowserve employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Flowserve employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at designated times throughout the year, typically during open enrollment periods.

Is there a vesting schedule for Flowserve's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Flowserve has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, which determines when employees fully own those contributions.

Can Flowserve employees access their 401(k) funds before retirement?

Flowserve employees may access their 401(k) funds before retirement under certain circumstances, such as hardship withdrawals or loans.

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

Flowserve Corporation offers a Defined Benefit Pension Plan known as the Flowserve Corporation Pension Plan, which is a traditional pension plan. This plan provides a monthly retirement benefit to participants based on a formula that takes into account years of service and compensation. The normal retirement age is typically the time when these benefits begin, and the plan follows a "cash balance" formula. This means that the benefits are calculated similarly to those in a defined contribution plan, with the accrued benefit expressed in terms like a single sum distribution amount (QDRO.com). The Flowserve 401(k) plan is another retirement benefit available to employees. The plan includes matching contributions, with Flowserve matching 75% of the employee's contributions up to 6% of their salary. Employees can contribute both pre-tax and Roth contributions to the 401(k). Catch-up contributions are available for employees over the age of 50. In 2023, the contribution limit for individuals under 50 was $22,500, while those over 50 could contribute an additional $7,500

Restructuring: In February 2023, Flowserve announced significant management changes as part of its ongoing restructuring efforts. This restructuring is aligned with its strategy to diversify, decarbonize, and digitize operations. The restructuring included executive shifts and operational changes aimed at improving efficiency and meeting the company's long-term sustainability goals. Benefits and 401(k) Changes: Flowserve continues to offer comprehensive benefits, including retirement planning options such as 401(k) plans. While no major changes have been announced for 2024, the company maintains a robust benefits package designed to support its employees' financial well-being.

Flowserve Corporation provides stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its employees as part of its equity compensation program. The specific stock options and RSUs available to Flowserve employees are designed to incentivize long-term commitment and align employee interests with company performance. For stock options, Flowserve typically grants options that allow employees to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, usually set at the market price on the grant date. These options generally vest over several years, meaning employees must remain with the company for a specific period before they can exercise the options. The company uses the acronym "ESOs" (Employee Stock Options) to refer to this program. Regarding RSUs, Flowserve awards these units as a form of deferred compensation. RSUs do not require employees to purchase the stock; instead, the units are converted into actual shares once they vest, which occurs over a set period or upon meeting specific performance targets. These RSUs are often part of a broader performance-based incentive structure, ensuring that employees contribute to the company’s growth and success over the long term. The acronym "RSU" is used for Restricted Stock Units in Flowserve's compensation documents.

Flowserve provides a comprehensive range of health benefits designed to support the physical, mental, and financial well-being of its employees. The health benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA). The company also offers short- and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and parental leave. Some of the healthcare-related terms associated with Flowserve include FSA, HSA, and AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) insurance. Benefits may vary depending on location and collective bargaining agreements

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Flowserve employees

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

https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/30625/000095013406002644/d26473exv10w70.htm https://contracts.justia.com/companies/flowserve-corporation-536/contract/1001926/ https://stockanalysis.com/stocks/fls/company/ https://ir.flowserve.com/news-events/news-details/2024/Flowserve-Corporation-Reports-First-Quarter-2024-Results-and-Raises-Full-Year-2024-Guidance-04-29-2024/default.aspx https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/FLOWSERVE-CORPORATION-12615/news/Flowserve-Announces-Preliminary-Fourth-Quarter-2022-Results-and-Initiates-2023-Guidance-42953963/ https://vfm.aviva.co.uk/flowserve-pension-scheme-F56236/ https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221031005685/en/Flowserve-Corporation-Reports-Third-Quarter-2022-Results-Issues-Fourth-Quarter-2022-Financial-Guidance/ https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2023/05/05/2662783/0/en/Velan-Shareholders-Approve-Acquisition-by-Flowserve.html https://pitchbook.com/profiles/company/41953-33 https://www.preqin.com/data/profile/investor/flowserve-corporation-pension-plan/103378 https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220188620/en/Flowserve-Corporation-Reports-Fourth-Quarter-and-Full-Year-2023-Results-Initiates-2024-Guidance https://stockanalysis.com/stocks/fls/employees/ https://www.capitalgroup.com/advisor/practicelab/articles/retirement-plan-contribution-deduction-limits.html https://www.principal.com/ https://www.foley.com/ https://www.cashbalancedesign.com/