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Magellan Midstream Partners Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Magellan Midstream Partners Magellan Midstream Partners, like many large companies, typically provides a range of healthcare options for its employees, including coverage through major national insurers. The specific providers may vary, but among the top insurers suggesting significant premium increases for 2026 are UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Cigna, which may impact Magellan employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the healthcare landscape evolves, Magellan Midstream Partners employees are poised to face significant cost increases in 2026. With healthcare premiums expected to rise sharply, particularly due to the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies, employees could see out-of-pocket costs escalate by over 75%. These anticipated hikes, with some states reporting individual market increases of more than 60%, highlight the pressing need for employees to review their healthcare plans proactively, taking steps to minimize financial strain amidst these escalating expenses. Click here to learn more

'Magellan Midstream Partners 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.

'Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners 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 Magellan Midstream Partners offer to its employees?

Magellan Midstream Partners offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Magellan Midstream Partners match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Magellan Midstream Partners provides a matching contribution to employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

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

Employees of Magellan Midstream Partners are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically within the first year of employment.

How can employees of Magellan Midstream Partners enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Magellan Midstream Partners 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What investment options are available in the Magellan Midstream Partners 401(k) plan?

The Magellan Midstream Partners 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can employees of Magellan Midstream Partners change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Magellan Midstream Partners 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

Is there a limit on how much employees can contribute to the Magellan Midstream Partners 401(k) plan?

Yes, the IRS sets annual contribution limits for 401(k) plans, and employees of Magellan Midstream Partners must adhere to these limits.

When can employees of Magellan Midstream Partners access their 401(k) funds?

Employees can access their 401(k) funds upon reaching retirement age, or in cases of hardship, termination of employment, or other qualifying events as defined by the plan.

Does Magellan Midstream Partners offer a loan option against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Magellan Midstream Partners allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Magellan Midstream Partners?

If an employee leaves Magellan Midstream Partners, they may roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the plan if permitted.

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

Plan Name: Magellan Midstream Partners Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees generally need to have 5 years of service to qualify for benefits. The typical retirement age is 65. Pension Formula: Benefits are calculated based on a formula that considers years of service and average salary, but specific details are not disclosed publicly. Plan Name: Magellan Midstream Partners 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing 30 days of service. Matching Contributions: The company offers a matching contribution up to a certain percentage of the employee's contribution, which is outlined in the plan details. Source Document: Magellan Midstream Partners 2023 Employee Benefits Summary

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Magellan Midstream Partners announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This included layoffs as part of their effort to optimize their workforce and improve overall efficiency. This restructuring is part of their strategy to better align with current market conditions and enhance profitability.

In 2022, Magellan Midstream Partners offered Stock Options (SO) and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its senior executives and key employees. These were detailed in the annual report,

Company Official Website: The company's official website is Magellan Midstream Partners. Typically, companies include detailed health benefits information in the "Careers" or "Employee Benefits" sections. I'll look for specific terms and acronyms used by the company. HR and Benefits Reports: Magellan Midstream Partners often publishes annual reports or updates on their benefits. These reports can be found in the "Investor Relations" section or similar areas. Employee Reviews and Forums: Websites like Glassdoor and Indeed offer insights from current and former employees about the company's health benefits. These can provide practical details and employee sentiments. News Articles and Industry Reports: News outlets and industry reports might cover recent changes or news related to employee health benefits. Websites like Bloomberg, Reuters, or industry-specific publications are good sources. Healthcare Benefits Providers: Information about the healthcare providers and plans offered by the company can sometimes be found on third-party benefits comparison sites or directly from the providers themselves