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Phillips 66 Families: Why a Letter of Instruction Can Simplify Estate Planning

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Phillips 66 Phillips 66 offers healthcare coverage through multiple providers, primarily Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), depending on the employee's home ZIP code. Employees also have access to a Kaiser HMO option if they live in designated areas of California or Washington. The medical plans include comprehensive coverage for various healthcare services, including preventive care, regular checkups, mental health, and substance use disorder treatments. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 Healthcare costs for Phillips 66 employees can be expected to rise significantly in 2026, reflecting broader trends impacting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. As major insurers are filing for rate increases that may exceed 60% in certain states, Phillips 66 employees could face steep hikes in out-of-pocket premiums, especially if federal subsidies are not extended. The combination of escalating medical costs and the potential loss of enhanced subsidies means many employees may see their premium costs increase substantially, leaving them with difficult choices regarding their healthcare coverage amidst these changing economic conditions. Click here to learn more

'Phillips 66 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.

'Phillips 66 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 Phillips 66 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 Phillips 66 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 Phillips 66 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 Phillips 66 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 Phillips 66 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 Phillips 66 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 Phillips 66 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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Articles you may find interesting:

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 Phillips 66?

The 401(k) plan offered by Phillips 66 is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are deducted.

How does Phillips 66 match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Phillips 66 offers 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 employees at Phillips 66 enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Phillips 66 can enroll in the 401(k) plan during their initial eligibility period, which is typically within 30 days of their hire date.

What types of investment options are available in the Phillips 66 401(k) plan?

The Phillips 66 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

Can Phillips 66 employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Phillips 66 employees may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What is the vesting schedule for Phillips 66's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Phillips 66's 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded schedule, meaning employees earn rights to the match over a period of time.

How can Phillips 66 employees access their 401(k) account information?

Phillips 66 employees can access their 401(k) account information through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to a Phillips 66 employee's 401(k) if they leave the company?

If a Phillips 66 employee leaves the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Phillips 66 plan if eligible.

Are there any fees associated with the Phillips 66 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with the Phillips 66 401(k) plan, including administrative fees and investment management fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

Can Phillips 66 employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Phillips 66 employees can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at certain times throughout the year, typically during open enrollment or at designated times.

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

Phillips 66 offers multiple pension plans, including a traditional defined benefit plan for employees hired before April 1, 2013, and a cash balance plan for those hired after this date. The defined benefit plan calculates retirement benefits based on years of service and final average pay. The cash balance plan credits a percentage of the employee's salary annually to an account that grows with interest. Additionally, Phillips 66 provides a 401(k) savings plan with company matching contributions to enhance retirement savings. Employees can manage their retirement accounts through the Vanguard platform.

Operational Changes: Phillips 66 is restructuring its business to focus more on its core refining and petrochemicals segments, leading to layoffs affecting around 1,500 employees (Source: Bloomberg). Strategic Initiatives: The company aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. Financial Performance: Phillips 66 reported a 10% increase in net sales for Q3 2023, driven by strong demand for its refining products (Source: Phillips 66).

Phillips 66 includes RSUs in its compensation packages, vesting over a specific period and converting into shares. Stock options are also provided, enabling employees to buy shares at a predetermined price.

Phillips 66 has actively enhanced its employee healthcare benefits to align with the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, the company introduced comprehensive health and wellness programs designed to support the overall well-being of its employees. These programs include a variety of medical plans, dental and vision coverage, health savings accounts, and wellness initiatives. Phillips 66 also emphasized mental health support by offering Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and stress management resources. These benefits reflect the company's commitment to fostering a healthy and productive workforce, which is essential for maintaining high performance in a competitive market. In 2023, Phillips 66 continued to expand its healthcare offerings by integrating new digital health solutions and enhancing access to preventive care services. The company introduced virtual health services and telemedicine options, ensuring employees have convenient access to healthcare professionals. Additionally, Phillips 66 focused on financial wellness, offering programs and resources to help employees manage their finances effectively and prepare for retirement. These initiatives are part of Phillips 66's broader strategy to create a supportive and inclusive work environment, which is critical for attracting and retaining top talent. By investing in robust healthcare benefits, Phillips 66 aims to ensure long-term business success and resilience amid economic uncertainties.

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Check Out Articles for Phillips 66 employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Phillips 66 at 2331 citywest blvd Houston, TX 77042; or by calling them at 281-293-6600.

https://www.phillips66.com/documents/pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/rsu-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/rsu-plan-2023.pdf - Page 14 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/rsu-plan-2024.pdf - Page 17 https://www.phillips66.com/documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 23