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Maxim Integrated Products Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

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'Maxim Integrated Products 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.

'Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products 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 Maxim Integrated Products offer?

Maxim Integrated Products offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan for its employees.

Does Maxim Integrated Products provide a company match for contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Maxim Integrated Products provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

What is the eligibility requirement for employees to participate in the 401(k) plan at Maxim Integrated Products?

Employees of Maxim Integrated Products are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, typically 30 days.

Can employees at Maxim Integrated Products choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, employees at Maxim Integrated Products can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in the 401(k) plan at Maxim Integrated Products?

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

What is the maximum contribution limit for employees to the 401(k) plan at Maxim Integrated Products?

The maximum contribution limit for employees to the 401(k) plan at Maxim Integrated Products is in line with IRS guidelines, which can change annually.

Does Maxim Integrated Products offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Maxim Integrated Products offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions.

How often can employees at Maxim Integrated Products change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Maxim Integrated Products can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at specified times throughout the year, typically during open enrollment periods.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at Maxim Integrated Products?

Yes, Maxim Integrated Products allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Maxim Integrated Products?

If you leave Maxim Integrated Products, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account or leaving it in the plan if allowed.

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

Look for the annual reports, 10-K filings, or pension plan documents on the SEC EDGAR database. Check the company's official website under Investor Relations or Employee Benefits sections. Review industry-specific publications or financial news sites. Consult documents from financial advisory firms or pension plan managers. Refer to the 401(k) plan summary plan description (SPD) or the company's 401(k) plan documents. Review the company's website or annual reports for plan details. Check for updates or changes in 401(k) plan information in financial filings. Consult resources from retirement plan administrators or financial advisors.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Maxim Integrated Products, now part of Analog Devices, announced a strategic realignment as part of its integration process. This included some restructuring and workforce adjustments to streamline operations and align with new business objectives. The integration process has led to a re-evaluation of roles, with some positions being eliminated to create a more efficient structure. It is important to address this news because the current economic climate demands careful navigation of workforce changes, considering the impacts on employment stability and organizational efficiency.

Maxim Integrated Products offered employees stock options and RSUs as part of their compensation package. Maxim Integrated Products used acronyms like SOP (Stock Option Plan) and RSU (Restricted Stock Unit) for these benefits. Employees who are part of the executive team and key contributors are eligible for these benefits.

Medical Plans: Offered a variety of plans including PPO and HMO options. Dental and Vision: Provided coverage for dental and vision care. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Available for employees to save pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses. Wellness Programs: Emphasized wellness programs, including mental health resources and fitness incentives.