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

Healthcare Provider Update: Sanmina, a global provider of integrated manufacturing solutions, partners with various healthcare providers to support the health and wellbeing of its employees. Typically, Sanmina's healthcare offerings include comprehensive insurance plans from major providers, allowing employees to receive necessary care through reputable networks. As we look towards 2026, healthcare costs are poised for significant increases, particularly impacting those reliant on Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. Premiums are expected to rise sharply, with some states projecting hikes exceeding 60%. Contributing factors include the anticipated expiration of enhanced federal subsidies, which could leave over 22 million enrollees facing out-of-pocket costs more than 75% higher than in previous years. The combined pressures of soaring medical costs and reduced financial support are likely to provoke serious conversations about healthcare affordability for many individuals and families. Click here to learn more

'Sanmina 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.

'Sanmina 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 Sanmina 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 Sanmina 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 Sanmina 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 Sanmina 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 Sanmina 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 Sanmina 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 Sanmina 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 Sanmina?

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

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

Sanmina provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which typically matches a percentage of the employee's contributions, up to a certain limit.

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

Sanmina employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan during the initial onboarding process or during designated open enrollment periods.

What types of investment options are available in Sanmina's 401(k) plan?

Sanmina's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

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

Yes, Sanmina's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment fees that are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

How can Sanmina employees access their 401(k) account information?

Sanmina employees can access their 401(k) account information through the plan's online portal or by contacting the plan administrator for assistance.

What is the vesting schedule for Sanmina's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Sanmina's 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded schedule, which means employees earn rights to the matching contributions over a period of time.

Can Sanmina employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

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

What happens to Sanmina employees' 401(k) accounts if they leave the company?

If Sanmina employees leave the company, they have several options for their 401(k) accounts, including rolling over the balance to another retirement account or cashing out, subject to taxes and penalties.

How often can Sanmina employees change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan?

Sanmina employees can typically change their contribution rates to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan's specific guidelines.