zamrznutitonovi / Getty Images A letter of instruction is a cheat sheet for ... naming an executor and beneficiaries, and setting up funeral arrangements.

naming an executor and beneficiaries, and setting up funeral arrangements. A letter of instruction provides a helpful guide for those who will have to settle your affairs once you are gone.

Drawing up a letter ... change your beneficiary designations on pensions and IRAs. "Some accounts have left survivor benefits to a previous spouse," she says. Also include funeral instructions ...