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Walgreens Boots Alliance Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Walgreens Boots Alliance Walgreens Boots Alliance primarily operates through its retail pharmacy network, including Walgreens and Boots pharmacies, along with a range of healthcare services. The company partners with various insurance and healthcare providers to offer accessible pharmacy services, health and wellness products, and integrated healthcare solutions aimed at enhancing patient care. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, employees of Walgreens Boots Alliance are likely to face significant increases in healthcare costs as insurance premiums for ACA marketplace plans are projected to rise sharply, in some instances exceeding 60%. With the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies, many enrollees may see their out-of-pocket costs escalate by over 75%. Coupled with rising medical costs driven by inflation and increased demand for expensive treatments, employees need to be proactive in understanding their health benefits and planning accordingly to manage these anticipated financial burdens. Click here to learn more

'Walgreens Boots Alliance 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.

'Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance 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 Walgreens Boots Alliance offer to its employees?

Walgreens Boots Alliance offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees of Walgreens Boots Alliance enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Walgreens Boots Alliance can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the benefits department for assistance.

Does Walgreens Boots Alliance match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Walgreens Boots Alliance provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum employee contribution percentage allowed in the Walgreens Boots Alliance 401(k) plan?

The maximum employee contribution percentage allowed in the Walgreens Boots Alliance 401(k) plan is in line with IRS limits, which can change annually.

Are there any waiting periods for new employees to join the Walgreens Boots Alliance 401(k) plan?

Walgreens Boots Alliance typically allows new employees to join the 401(k) plan after completing a specified waiting period, usually within the first few months of employment.

Can employees of Walgreens Boots Alliance take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, employees of Walgreens Boots Alliance may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms.

What investment options are available within the Walgreens Boots Alliance 401(k) plan?

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

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Walgreens Boots Alliance 401(k) plan?

Employees of Walgreens Boots Alliance can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What happens to the 401(k) savings if an employee leaves Walgreens Boots Alliance?

If an employee leaves Walgreens Boots Alliance, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) savings to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the savings in the plan, depending on the balance and plan rules.

Does Walgreens Boots Alliance provide educational resources to help employees understand their 401(k) options?

Yes, Walgreens Boots Alliance offers educational resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions.

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

Walgreens Boots Alliance is a global leader in retail pharmacy, known for its extensive network of drugstores and health and wellness services.

Walgreens Boots Alliance provides RSUs to certain employees. These RSUs vest over time, encouraging employee retention.