What Is a “Loving Letter” and Why Every Florida Estate Plan Should Include One

When most people think about estate planning, they focus on legal documents like wills and trusts. While those documents are essential, they don’t always tell the full story. That’s where a “Loving Letter,” also known as a Letter of Instruction, becomes an invaluable part of a well-rounded Florida estate plan.

A Loving Letter is not a legal document, but it is one of the most practical and compassionate tools you can leave behind for your loved ones.

What Is a Loving Letter?

A Loving Letter is a personal, detailed guide that helps your family understand not only what you own, but how to manage your affairs and honor your wishes after your passing or during incapacity.

Think of it as a roadmap that answers the questions your loved ones may not know to ask—at a time when clarity matters most.

What Information Should a Loving Letter Include?

A comprehensive Loving Letter gathers critical information in one organized place, making it easier for your family, personal representative, or trustee to act quickly and confidently.

1. Assets and Accounts

Your Loving Letter can list:

  • Bank accounts

  • Investment accounts

  • Retirement plans

  • Business interests

  • Real estate holdings

  • Safe deposit boxes

  • Digital assets and online accounts

This prevents delays and reduces the risk of overlooked property.

2. Insurance Policies

Include details for:

  • Life insurance

  • Health insurance

  • Long-term care insurance

  • Disability insurance

  • Property and auto insurance

This helps your family know what coverage exists and who to contact.

3. Liabilities and Debts

A Loving Letter should clearly outline:

  • Mortgages

  • Credit cards

  • Personal loans

  • Medical bills

  • Business liabilities

Knowing what debts exist helps loved ones manage finances responsibly and avoid surprises during probate or estate administration.

4. Your Budget and Ongoing Expenses

Documenting your monthly budget can be extremely helpful, especially if a spouse or family member will be managing finances for the first time.

This may include:

  • Utilities

  • Subscriptions

  • Insurance premiums

  • Property expenses

  • Household costs

5. Professional Contacts

Your family may not know who to call. A Loving Letter can identify:

  • Your Florida estate planning attorney

  • Financial advisor or stockbroker

  • Banker

  • Accountant or CPA

  • Insurance agent

  • Business partners

This saves time and avoids confusion when decisions need to be made quickly.

6. Estate Planning Documents

While the Loving Letter does not replace legal documents, it should reference:

  • Where your will is stored

  • Whether you have a trust

  • Powers of attorney

  • Healthcare directives

  • Who is named as personal representative or trustee

This ensures your legal documents can be located without unnecessary stress.

7. Personal Wishes for Your Family

One of the most meaningful aspects of a Loving Letter is the ability to communicate your wishes in your own words, including:

  • Guidance for your children

  • Messages to loved ones

  • Values you hope to pass on

  • Family traditions you want continued

This personal touch often becomes a cherished keepsake.

8. Final Wishes and Remains

A Loving Letter can clearly explain your preferences regarding:

  • Burial or cremation

  • Funeral or memorial services

  • Religious or cultural traditions

  • Charitable donations

  • Special requests

Providing this guidance can ease emotional burdens and prevent disagreements among family members.

Is a Loving Letter Legally Binding in Florida?

A Loving Letter is not a legal document, but it works alongside your Florida estate plan to provide clarity and direction. While it does not override a will or trust, it can significantly reduce confusion, delays, and family conflict.  Also, it is very important to understand that you must secure this document as it has significant personal and financial information.

Because it is not filed with the court, it can also remain private and easily updated as life changes.

Why a Loving Letter Is Especially Helpful in Florida

Florida probate and estate administration can be complex. A Loving Letter helps:

  • Streamline the probate process

  • Reduce time spent searching for information

  • Support surviving spouses and children

  • Ensure your wishes are clearly understood

  • Complement Florida wills and trusts

It’s one of the most thoughtful gifts you can leave your family.

Creating a Loving Letter as Part of Your Florida Estate Plan

A Florida estate planning attorney can help you:

  • Decide what information to include

  • Organize your Loving Letter effectively

  • Coordinate it with your will, trust, and beneficiary designations

  • Update it as your life and finances change

A Loving Letter brings humanity and clarity to estate planning—something legal documents alone cannot always provide.

A Final Thought

Estate planning is not just about assets—it’s about care, communication, and peace of mind. A Loving Letter ensures your loved ones are supported, informed, and guided during a difficult time.

 

Having everything in one place can make all the difference.