A letter of instruction isn’t legally binding, so you shouldn’t include instructions for how you want your assets distributed after you die. You should write these in your will. What Is an Estate?

Business. A 'letter of instruction' to your heirs is essential. ... Otherwise you'll have to prepare yet another letter of instruction to tell everyone where the first one is located. June 10, 2001.

A letter of instruction can help to simplify a complex inheritance structure for your heirs. But you don’t need to have a complicated estate to benefit from one.