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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Newmont Corporation Newmont Corporation typically offers healthcare benefits through various insurance options for its employees, primarily utilizing the services of major health insurers like UnitedHealthcare and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), depending on the geographical locations of their operations. As a large mining company, Newmont is committed to providing comprehensive health coverage, which likely includes various plans that are tailored to meet the needs of its diverse workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the healthcare landscape shifts towards significant premium hikes in 2026, Newmont Corporation may face compounded pressures from rising costs. With the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium increases projected to exceed 60% in some states, many employees could see their out-of-pocket costs soar dramatically-potentially by over 75%-if enhanced federal premium subsidies expire as anticipated. This combination of escalating medical costs and the threat of reduced subsidies poses a considerable challenge for employers like Newmont, who might need to navigate these complexities to maintain access to affordable healthcare for their workforce. Click here to learn more

'Newmont 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.

'Newmont 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 Newmont 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 Newmont 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 Newmont 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 Newmont 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 Newmont 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 Newmont 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 Newmont 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 Newmont?

Newmont offers a 401(k) plan that allows employees to save for retirement by contributing a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

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

Newmont provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of employee contributions up to a certain limit.

Can employees at Newmont change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

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

What investment options are available in Newmont’s 401(k) plan?

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

When can Newmont employees start contributing to the 401(k) plan?

Newmont employees can typically start contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, often within their first month.

Does Newmont allow for loans against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Newmont allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions, as outlined in the plan documents.

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

If you leave Newmont, you can choose to leave your 401(k) account with the company, roll it over to another retirement account, or cash it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

How does Newmont inform employees about their 401(k) plan options?

Newmont provides information about the 401(k) plan through employee orientation, benefit guides, and online resources available on the company’s intranet.

Is there a vesting schedule for Newmont's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Newmont has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matching funds.

Can Newmont employees access their 401(k) funds while still employed?

Generally, Newmont employees cannot access their 401(k) funds while still employed, except through loans or hardship withdrawals as permitted by the plan.

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

Name of Pension Plan: Newmont Pension Plan Years of Service Requirement: 5 years of service required for eligibility. Age Qualification: Participants must be at least 55 years old to begin receiving benefits, with eligibility to retire at age 65. Pension Formula: The pension is calculated based on a formula that considers the average salary during the highest-paid years of service and years of service. Name of 401(k) Plan: Newmont 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan Eligibility Criteria: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after 30 days of employment.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Newmont Mining Corporation announced a significant restructuring plan in early 2024. The company is streamlining its operations and has decided to reduce its workforce by approximately 10% to enhance efficiency and cut costs. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to adapt to fluctuating gold prices and increasing operational costs. Given the current economic climate, where inflation and market volatility impact resource extraction industries, this restructuring is crucial for maintaining financial stability and competitiveness.

Newmont Corporation offers stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation package. For 2022, Newmont granted RSUs to senior executives and key employees, which are subject to performance and time-based vesting criteria. The stock options at Newmont are typically granted with a 10-year term and vest over a period of 3 to 5 years.

Benefits Overview: Newmont’s official website provides details about their employee benefits, including health insurance, wellness programs, and retirement plans. Health Benefits: Typically include medical, dental, and vision coverage, with options for health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs). Newmont often emphasizes wellness initiatives and employee support programs. Acronyms: HSAs (Health Savings Accounts), FSAs (Flexible Spending Accounts), EAP (Employee Assistance Program)