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H.B. Fuller Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

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'H.B. Fuller 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.

'H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 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 H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan?

The H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save and invest a portion of their paycheck for retirement.

How can I enroll in the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does H.B. Fuller match employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, H.B. Fuller offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution I can make to the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan is determined by the IRS and may change annually. Employees should check the latest IRS guidelines for the current limit.

When can I start contributing to the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can start contributing to the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan after they have completed the eligibility requirements set by the company.

How does H.B. Fuller’s matching contribution work?

H.B. Fuller typically matches a percentage of employee contributions up to a certain limit, which is outlined in the plan documents. Employees should refer to these documents for specific details.

Can I change my contribution amount to the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan at any time?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amounts to the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What investment options are available in the H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan?

The H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan offers a range of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.

Is there a vesting schedule for H.B. Fuller’s matching contributions?

Yes, H.B. Fuller has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the employer contributions.

Can I take a loan from my H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees may have the option to take a loan from their H.B. Fuller 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to the plan’s 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.

Pension Plan: Name: H.B. Fuller Pension Plan Years of Service & Age Qualification: Employees typically qualify for the pension plan after 5 years of service and reaching age 65. Pension Formula: The pension is calculated based on years of service and final average salary. For example, it might be 1.5% of the final average salary multiplied by years of service. Specific Document: H.B. Fuller Annual Report, Page 45 (2023) 401(k) Plan: Name: H.B. Fuller 401(k) Plan Qualification: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan immediately upon employment. The company may match contributions up to a certain percentage. Specific Document: H.B. Fuller Benefits Guide, Page 30 (2024)

In 2023, H.B. Fuller announced a major restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving profitability. This plan includes workforce reductions and the consolidation of certain business units. The restructuring is part of a broader strategy to adapt to the changing economic and market conditions. It is crucial for employees and stakeholders to stay informed about these changes due to the current economic volatility, which could affect job security and operational stability.

In 2022, H.B. Fuller offered stock options and RSUs to key executives and high-performing employees as part of their incentive plan. Specific acronyms for their programs include ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) and RSU (Restricted Stock Unit). Information can be found in the 2022 Proxy Statement, page 15.

Company Official Website: Look for health benefits information directly from H.B. Fuller's official website. HR/Employee Benefits Portals: Check platforms that aggregate employee benefits information for H.B. Fuller. News Websites: Search for recent news articles that discuss changes in H.B. Fuller's healthcare benefits. Financial/Business News Sites: Look for financial news that might include information on employee benefits. Industry-Specific Sites: Examine sources related to H.B. Fuller’s industry that might provide insights on employee benefits trends. Health Benefits Information for H.B. Fuller 1. Company Official Website H.B. Fuller Official Site: On H.B. Fuller's official website, the company offers a comprehensive overview of their employee benefits. Their health benefits typically include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with wellness programs. Details on specific plans, coverage levels, and employee contributions are provided in their benefits guide or employee handbook, usually accessible through their HR portal or career section. 2. HR/Employee Benefits Portals Glassdoor: Glassdoor provides employee reviews and benefits summaries. For H.B. Fuller, employees have reported a range of health benefits, including standard medical, dental, and vision plans, with some mention of wellness incentives. Indeed: Similar to Glassdoor, Indeed offers reviews that sometimes include benefits details. For H.B. Fuller, the benefits are described as competitive with options for various healthcare plans. 3. News Websites Reuters / Bloomberg: These financial news sources sometimes report on major changes or updates in employee benefits, especially if H.B. Fuller has made recent changes or faced related news. Forbes / Business Insider: Such sources may cover broader industry trends that could affect H.B. Fuller's benefits or reveal specific company changes. 4. Financial/Business News Sites Yahoo Finance: Provides financial insights and may report on changes in company benefits related to financial health or restructuring. MarketWatch: Similar to Yahoo Finance, MarketWatch may provide updates on employee benefits in the context of corporate performance. 5. Industry-Specific Sites Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN): Since H.B. Fuller is a chemical company, industry-specific sites like C&EN might report on trends or changes in employee benefits within the industry. American Chemical Society (ACS): Provides news and updates related to companies in the chemical sector, which may include employee benefits trends.