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Resideo Technologies Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider Information for Resideo Technologies Resideo Technologies primarily partners with several health insurance providers to offer health benefits to its employees. The exact healthcare providers may vary based on geographic location and specific employee plans; however, many employees utilize plans from major insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Cigna, as these are prevalent in the market. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, employees of Resideo Technologies may confront a significant rise in healthcare costs due to a combination of factors. Insurers are requesting premium increases of up to 66% in several states, creating a challenging landscape for many employees relying on Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. Coupled with the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies, nearly 92% of affected policyholders could see their out-of-pocket costs surge by over 75%. This scenario emphasizes the need for employees to review their healthcare options early and align their coverage with anticipated financial needs. Click here to learn more

'Resideo Technologies 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.

'Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies 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 Resideo Technologies?

The 401(k) plan at Resideo Technologies is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their earnings on a tax-deferred basis.

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

Resideo Technologies offers a company match for employee contributions, which is typically a percentage of the employee's contribution, up to a specified limit.

What are the eligibility requirements to participate in the Resideo Technologies 401(k) plan?

Employees of Resideo Technologies are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of service, usually outlined in the employee handbook.

Can employees of Resideo Technologies make changes to their 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees of Resideo Technologies can change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to specific guidelines set by the plan.

What investment options are available in the Resideo Technologies 401(k) plan?

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

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Resideo Technologies 401(k) plan?

Yes, Resideo Technologies has a vesting schedule for the employer match, meaning employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched contributions.

How can employees of Resideo Technologies access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the online portal provided by the plan administrator, which is accessible via the Resideo Technologies employee resources page.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Resideo Technologies?

If an employee leaves Resideo Technologies, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance into another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the Resideo plan, subject to the plan's rules.

Are loans available from the 401(k) plan at Resideo Technologies?

Yes, Resideo Technologies allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions, as specified in the plan documents.

Can employees of Resideo Technologies withdraw funds from their 401(k) before retirement?

Employees may be able to withdraw funds from their 401(k) before retirement under specific circumstances, such as financial hardship, but penalties may apply.