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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Mosaic Mosaic is known for its commitment to quality health services, focusing on advanced specialty care. This commitment is underpinned by a range of healthcare providers who collaborate within the organization, prioritizing value-based care to enhance patient outcomes and reduce overall healthcare costs. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As healthcare costs are projected to rise sharply in 2026, consumers, particularly those in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, may face substantial financial burdens. With reports indicating possible premium hikes of over 60% in some states due to increasing medical expenses and the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies, many average consumers could see their out-of-pocket costs surge by up to 75%. This situation highlights the pressing need for strategic planning in healthcare spending and coverage selection well ahead of the looming increases. Click here to learn more

'Mosaic 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.

'Mosaic 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 Mosaic 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 Mosaic 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 Mosaic 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 Mosaic 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 Mosaic 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 Mosaic 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 Mosaic 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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Articles you may find interesting:

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 Mosaic?

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

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

Mosaic offers a company match of 50% on employee contributions up to 6% of their salary, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

When can employees at Mosaic enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Mosaic can enroll in the 401(k) plan during the initial onboarding process and during the annual open enrollment period.

Is there a vesting schedule for Mosaic's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Mosaic has a vesting schedule for company contributions, which typically requires employees to work for a certain number of years before they fully own the employer match.

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

Mosaic offers a variety of investment options, including target-date funds, index funds, and actively managed funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) at Mosaic?

Yes, Mosaic allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

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

If you leave Mosaic, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash it out, or leave it in the Mosaic plan if eligible.

Does Mosaic offer financial education resources for its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Mosaic provides financial education resources, including workshops and one-on-one consultations, to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

How often can employees change their contribution rate to the Mosaic 401(k) plan?

Employees at Mosaic can change their contribution rate at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

Are there any fees associated with Mosaic's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with Mosaic's 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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

The Mosaic Company provides its employees with a robust 401(k) retirement plan, offering several benefits designed to enhance financial wellness. The Mosaic 401(k) plan allows employees to make pre-tax payroll deductions, which contribute to their retirement savings, with tax-deferred growth. Mosaic also supports employees through company matching contributions and annual company contributions, helping to grow their retirement accounts. The plan offers a wide range of investment options, and employees can manage their accounts through Fidelity, which provides access to tools, calculators, and account management options. Eligibility for the Mosaic 401(k) plan includes full-time employees, with options for part-time and hourly workers depending on their hours of service. The plan allows for automatic payroll deductions and enrollment at any time, providing flexibility to employees. Mosaic uses Fidelity's platform for all aspects of the 401(k) plan, including account management and beneficiary updates (Mosaic Benefits). For Mosaic's pension plan, details are typically outlined in the company's summary plan description documents. The pension plan, often referred to as a Defined Benefit Plan, considers factors such as years of service and age qualification. Employees typically qualify after completing a certain number of years of service, which is standard in defined benefit plans across industries. Further details about the pension plan name, specific formulas, and eligibility would be available in company documents, such as the Summary Plan Description, which can be requested from Mosaic's HR department

In 2024, Mosaic Insurance underwent a significant restructuring of its underwriting and operational teams. The restructuring was aimed at supporting the company’s strategic expansion and driving growth for its agency business. The reorganization led to the redistribution of roles across key operational areas and advancements in technological integration. Key personnel updates included the promotion of leaders in strategic finance, corporate affairs, digital and AI strategy, and underwriting. This restructuring demonstrates Mosaic’s focus on evolving its global agency model and fostering partnerships that bring innovative solutions to the market (Royal Gazette) (Royal Gazette).

Mosaic (MOS) offers both employee stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its compensation package, with specific eligibility and conditions tied to each. The stock options are divided into Non-Qualified Stock Options (NQSOs) and Incentive Stock Options (ISOs). NQSOs are available to employees, contractors, directors, and advisors, while ISOs are limited to employees and are capped at $100,000 per year in exercisable value. RSUs can also be awarded to employees, contractors, directors, and advisors, with no set annual limits. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Mosaic has continued to offer stock options and RSUs to key personnel, especially employees contributing to long-term company growth. Mosaic stock options grant the right to purchase company stock at a set price, and vesting schedules are typically spread over several years.

Medical Premiums: For both 2023 and 2024, employees saw slight increases in medical premiums. The monthly premium rise was approximately $6 to $29 in 2023 and $5 to $25 in 2024, depending on the plan. These adjustments reflected national trends while maintaining lower increases than expected. Dental and Vision: For four consecutive years, Mosaic maintained stable costs for dental and vision plans, ensuring that employee contributions did not rise. Wellness Incentives: Mosaic offers a $500 wellness incentive for employees and spouses/domestic partners who participate in personal health screenings under the company’s health plan. This incentive continues into 2024 as part of their focus on preventive care. Flexible Time Off: In addition to health benefits, Mosaic implemented a "Flexible Time Off" program allowing employees to take time for vacation, illness, mental health, and volunteering.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Mosaic at , ; or by calling them at .

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