What is the purpose of letters of last instruction?

Letters of last instruction are intended to communicate the final wishes of an individual, particularly regarding personal matters that may not be addressed in a will. Their primary purpose is to provide guidance on various aspects of a person's death, with funeral and burial arrangements being a significant focus. This document allows the individual to express preferences for services, locations, and any specific requests that family members or executors should know, easing the burden on loved ones during a difficult time.

While letters of last instruction can include important information, they do not replace a will or have legal power over an estate. A will serves as the enforceable document outlining how assets are to be distributed, while letters of last instruction primarily convey personal wishes rather than binding legal directives. This makes the option regarding funeral and burial arrangements the most appropriate choice.