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

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Intuit Intuit, a leading financial software company, primarily utilizes UnitedHealthcare as its healthcare provider. This partnership enables Intuit to offer competitive health benefits and services to its employees, ensuring comprehensive coverage options. Brief on Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to surge dramatically, with many insured individuals feeling the brunt of escalating premiums. Factors contributing to this sharp increase include the loss of enhanced federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans, which has the potential to spike out-of-pocket costs by over 75% for the majority of enrollees. Additionally, numerous states are experiencing proposed premium hikes, with some exceeding 60%, primarily fueled by rising medical costs and aggressive rate increases from top insurers. As a result, consumers and employers alike will face significant financial pressures, prompting many to re-evaluate their healthcare options and strategies in light of these challenges. Click here to learn more

'Intuit 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.

'Intuit 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:

  1. Why a letter of instruction can support your estate plan.

  2. What to include in a letter of instruction.

  3. How Intuit 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 Intuit 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 Intuit 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 Intuit 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 Intuit 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 Intuit 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 Intuit 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 savings plan does Intuit offer to its employees?

Intuit offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Intuit provide a company match for its 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Intuit offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

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

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

What is the eligibility requirement for Intuit employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Most Intuit employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, typically within the first year.

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

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

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

Intuit's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

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

Intuit employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

Does Intuit provide financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plans?

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

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Intuit?

If you leave Intuit, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) savings into another qualified retirement plan, cash out, or leave the funds in the Intuit plan, depending on the plan's rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for Intuit's 401(k) company match?

Yes, Intuit has a vesting schedule for the company match, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.

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 Terminology: Defined Contribution Plan: A retirement plan where the employee and/or employer contribute to the employee's account, but the final benefit depends on investment performance. Vesting: The process by which an employee earns the right to benefits from an employer-provided plan. 401(k) Plan Terminology: Match Contribution: Employer contributions that match employee contributions up to a certain percentage. Automatic Enrollment: A feature that automatically enrolls employees into the 401(k) plan upon meeting eligibility criteria.
In July 2024, Intuit announced the layoff of 1,800 employees, roughly 10% of its workforce, as part of a larger restructuring effort aimed at focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. This restructuring is being driven by the company's strategy to shift toward AI-driven solutions, such as its AI-powered financial assistant, Intuit Assist. As part of this strategy, Intuit plans to rehire in new AI-focused and customer-facing roles, with a goal of boosting innovation and growth in areas like data, fintech, and mid-market solutions. In its Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, Intuit stated that this transition would come with an estimated $260 million in layoff-related costs, including severance and employee benefits, and further investments into AI and data-driven platforms.
Intuit offers its employees stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their compensation packages. Stock options give employees the right to purchase Intuit shares at a predetermined price, while RSUs are a promise to grant shares upon meeting vesting requirements. For example, RSUs vest over time or after performance milestones, with taxes withheld from the vested shares before employees can access the remaining stock. Both stock options and RSUs are considered ordinary income once vested and are reported on W-2 forms​ (Intuit Benefits)​ (TurboTax). In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Intuit provided RSUs with vesting schedules based on years of service and stock performance. Typically, a portion of the shares is withheld to cover taxes upon vesting, and the remaining shares are transferred to the employee's account. Employees can then decide whether to hold or sell the shares. RSUs are commonly awarded to attract and retain talent and are available to full-time employees, with executives often receiving higher allocations​
Medical Coverage: Intuit provides several medical plans depending on the employee's location, such as the Cigna Choice Fund with Health Savings Account (HSA), UnitedHealthcare (UHC) Network Plan, Cigna Managed Network Plan (EPO), and Kaiser Permanente (for employees in California and Georgia). These plans include broad coverage for services like preventive care, family planning, and physical therapy​ (Intuit Benefits)​ (Intuit Benefits). Health Savings Account (HSA): Employees enrolled in the Cigna Choice Fund with HSA plan can contribute tax-free money to cover medical expenses. In 2023, the IRS limit was $3,850 for individual coverage and $7,750 for family coverage, increasing to $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for families in 2024​ (Intuit Benefits). Mental Health and Wellbeing: Intuit places a strong emphasis on mental health. Employees have access to no-cost confidential counseling, support for managing stress, depression, and workplace challenges, as well as resources for mindfulness and resilience building
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Intuit at , ; or by calling them at .

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