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LGI Homes Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for LGI Homes LGI Homes primarily partners with The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement, to facilitate employee benefits and provide assistance related to healthcare coverage. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As LGI Homes prepares for 2026, employees should brace for significant increases in healthcare costs. With reports indicating that ACA marketplace premiums could rise dramatically-some states experiencing hikes over 60%-many employees may face higher out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, employers, responding to mounting healthcare cost pressures, are likely to shift more expenses onto workers through increased deductibles and coinsurance rates. By familiarizing themselves with changing benefit structures and optimizing their health savings accounts, LGI Homes employees can mitigate the financial impact of these projected cost increases. Click here to learn more

'LGI Homes 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.

'LGI Homes 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 LGI Homes 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 LGI Homes 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 LGI Homes 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 LGI Homes 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 LGI Homes 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 LGI Homes 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 LGI Homes 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 401(k) plan offered by LGI Homes?

The 401(k) plan at LGI Homes is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How does LGI Homes match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

LGI Homes offers a company match on employee contributions, which helps to enhance your retirement savings.

When can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at LGI Homes?

Employees at LGI Homes can enroll in the 401(k) plan during their initial onboarding process or during the annual open enrollment period.

What is the vesting schedule for LGI Homes' 401(k) match?

The vesting schedule for LGI Homes' 401(k) match typically requires employees to work for a certain number of years before they fully own the matched funds.

Can I change my contribution amount to the LGI Homes 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amount to the LGI Homes 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

What investment options are available in the LGI Homes 401(k) plan?

The LGI Homes 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Is there a loan option available through the LGI Homes 401(k) plan?

Yes, LGI Homes allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions.

How can I access my LGI Homes 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their LGI Homes 401(k) account information online through the plan’s designated website or mobile app.

What happens to my LGI Homes 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave LGI Homes, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with LGI Homes.

Does LGI Homes offer financial planning resources for 401(k) participants?

Yes, LGI Homes provides access to financial planning resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) investments.

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

Review Company Pension Plan Information: Search for LGI Homes' pension plan details, including: Name of the pension plan Eligibility requirements (years of service, age) Pension formula Specific page numbers in the document where the information is found Review Company 401(k) Plan Information: Search for LGI Homes' 401(k) plan details, including: Name of the 401(k) plan Eligibility requirements Specific page numbers in the document where the information is found Gather Terminology and Acronyms: Collect any specific terminology and acronyms related to LGI Homes' employee pension and 401(k) plans. Ensure No Hyperlinks:

Restructuring and Layoffs: LGI Homes has been adjusting its operational structure in response to fluctuating market conditions. In late 2023, the company undertook a series of organizational changes aimed at streamlining its operations and improving efficiency. This included some layoffs within certain departments. This restructuring is a direct response to the ongoing economic uncertainties, including shifts in the housing market and broader economic conditions that impact homebuilders. As such, it is crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about these changes to better understand their potential impact on investment and employment stability. Company Benefits and 401k Changes: In early 2024, LGI Homes revised its employee benefits package to address the changing needs of its workforce. This included adjustments to its 401k plan, such as modified employer matching contributions and updated investment options. The changes are designed to enhance employee financial security amidst economic fluctuations. It is essential to follow these updates, as they reflect broader trends in corporate benefits adjustments influenced by the current economic and political environment, affecting employees' long-term financial planning and security.

LGI Homes provided stock options and RSUs to key employees, including executives and senior management. These options and units are typically granted as part of the company's long-term incentive plans to align interests with shareholders. The stock options and RSUs available in LGI Homes for 2022 were detailed in the annual proxy statement filed with the SEC.

LGI Homes has offered a range of healthcare benefits over recent years, with a focus on comprehensive coverage to support employee well-being. In 2022 and 2023, LGI Homes' health benefits included traditional medical insurance plans, dental and vision coverage, and access to health savings accounts (HSAs). The company uses terms like "HDHP" (High Deductible Health Plan) and "HSA" (Health Savings Account) to describe their benefit options. In 2024, LGI Homes continued to provide competitive healthcare benefits, emphasizing wellness programs and preventive care. Recent changes included adjustments to the cost-sharing structure and enhancements to telehealth services, reflecting broader trends in the industry toward digital healthcare solutions. The company also expanded its mental health resources, acknowledging the growing importance of mental well-being in the workplace. In the current economic and political climate, discussions around healthcare benefits at LGI Homes are particularly relevant. With ongoing economic pressures and legislative changes affecting healthcare policies, LGI Homes' approach to employee benefits remains crucial for both retaining talent and ensuring financial stability. Healthcare benefits are not just a matter of employee satisfaction but also a strategic consideration for investment and tax planning. By adapting their benefits to meet current needs and legislative changes, LGI Homes positions itself as a competitive employer and demonstrates a commitment to its workforce's health and financial security.