Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider Information for Aetna Aetna, part of the CVS Health family, has been a key player in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, providing health insurance plans to individuals and families. However, significant changes are on the horizon for 2026, as Aetna will exit the ACA marketplace in 17 states, impacting approximately 1 million members. This withdrawal is attributed to the company's challenges in maintaining competitiveness and providing value in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the healthcare landscape shifts, substantial premium hikes are anticipated for those enrolled in ACA marketplace plans, with projections of up to 75% increases in out-of-pocket costs due to the potential loss of enhanced federal subsidies. In some states, insurers have filed for rate increases exceeding 60%, driven by surging medical costs and the expiration of premium tax credits established under the American Rescue Plan. For Aetna's former members, this change further complicates their healthcare landscape as they seek new insurance options amid heightened financial pressures. Click here to learn more
'Aetna 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.
'Aetna 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:
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Why a letter of instruction can support your estate plan.
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What to include in a letter of instruction.
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How Aetna 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 Aetna 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 Aetna 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 Aetna 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 Aetna 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 Aetna 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 Aetna 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.
How does Aetna Inc.'s frozen pension plan affect employees' eligibility for benefits, and what specific criteria must current employees meet to qualify for any benefits from the Retirement Plan for Employees of Aetna Inc.?
Eligibility for Benefits: Aetna Inc.'s pension plan has been frozen since January 1, 2011, meaning no new pension credits are accruing. Employees who were participants before this date remain eligible for benefits but cannot accrue additional pension credits. To qualify for benefits, participants need to have been vested, which generally occurs after three years of service(PensionSPD).
In what ways can employees at Aetna Inc. transition their pension benefits if they leave the company, and what implications does this have for their tax liabilities and retirement planning?
Transitioning Pension Benefits: If employees leave Aetna, they can opt for a lump-sum distribution or an annuity. Employees can roll over their lump-sum payments into an IRA or other tax-qualified plans to avoid immediate taxes. However, direct rollovers must follow the tax-qualified plan's rules. If not rolled over, employees are subject to immediate tax and potential penalties(PensionSPD).
What steps should an Aetna Inc. employee take if they become disabled and wish to continue receiving pension benefits, and how does the company's policy on disability impact their future retirement options?
Disability and Pension Benefits: Employees who become totally disabled and qualify for long-term disability can continue participating in the pension plan until their disability benefits cease or employment is terminated. No additional pension benefits accrue after December 31, 2010, but participation continues under the plan until employment formally ends(PensionSPD).
Can you explain the implications of the plan amendment rights that Aetna Inc. retains, particularly concerning any potential changes in the pension benefits and what this could mean for employee planning?
Plan Amendment Rights: Aetna reserves the right to amend or terminate the pension plan at any time. If the plan is terminated, participants will still receive benefits accrued up to the date of termination, protected by ERISA. Any future changes could impact employees' planning and retirement options(PensionSPD).
How does the IRS's annual contribution limits for pension plans in 2024 interact with the provisions of the Retirement Plan for Employees of Aetna Inc., and what considerations should employees keep in mind when planning their retirement contributions?
IRS Contribution Limits: The IRS sets annual contribution limits for pension plans, including defined benefit plans. In 2024, employees should ensure that their pension contributions and tax planning strategies align with these limits and the provisions of Aetna's pension plan(PensionSPD).
What are the options available to Aetna Inc. employees regarding pension benefit withdrawal, and how can they strategically choose between a lump-sum distribution versus an annuity option?
Withdrawal Options: Aetna employees can choose between a lump-sum distribution or various annuity options when withdrawing pension benefits. The lump-sum option allows for immediate access to funds, while annuities provide monthly payments over time, offering a more stable income stream(PensionSPD).
How does Aetna Inc. ensure compliance with ERISA regulations concerning the rights of employees in the retirement plan, and what resources are available for employees to understand their rights and claims procedures?
ERISA Compliance: Aetna complies with ERISA regulations, ensuring employees' rights are protected. Resources are available through the Plan Administrator and myHR, providing information on claims procedures, plan rights, and how to file appeals if necessary(PensionSPD).
What documentation should employees of Aetna Inc. be aware of when applying for their pension benefits, and how can they ensure that they maximize their benefits based on their years of service?
Documentation for Benefits: Employees should retain service records and review their benefit statements to ensure they receive the maximum pension benefits. They can request additional documents and assistance through myHR to verify their years of service and other relevant criteria(PensionSPD).
How do changes in interest rates throughout the years affect the annuity payments that employees at Aetna Inc. might receive upon retirement, and what strategies can they consider to optimize their retirement income?
Impact of Interest Rates on Annuities: Interest rates significantly affect annuity payments. Higher interest rates increase the monthly annuity amount. Employees should consider the timing of their retirement, especially at the end of the year, when interest rates for the following year are announced(PensionSPD).
If employees want to learn more about their pension options or have inquiries regarding the Retirement Plan for Employees of Aetna Inc., what are the best channels to contact the company, and what specific resources does Aetna provide for assistance?
Contact for Pension Inquiries: Employees can contact myHR at 1-888-MY-HR-CVS (1-888-694-7287), selecting the pension menu option for assistance. Aetna also provides detailed resources through the myHR website, helping employees understand their pension options and benefits(PensionSPD).
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