Planned & Legacy Giving
Bequest Language
Sample Bequest Language for Donors to Include in a Will
Share these starting points with your attorney. Each example illustrates a common way to word a charitable bequest — feel free to adapt the language to your intentions.
Sample 1
General Bequest
These bequests are left to certain people or charities from the general value of the estate. They are made by designating a specific dollar amount, a particular asset, or a fixed percentage of the estate.
“I give, devise and bequeath to NAME OF CHARITY/LOCATION the sum of $______ (or a description of the specific asset), for the benefit of NAME OF CHARITY and its general purposes.”
Sample 2
Specific Bequest
These bequests are made when a particular item or property is bequeathed for a designated purpose — for example, instruments bequeathed to a local school district for use in music education, or dollar funds designated for the operation of a school or program.
“I give, devise and bequeath to NAME OF CHARITY/LOCATION the sum of $______ (or a description of a specific asset), for the benefit of NAME OF CHARITY to be used for the following purpose: (state the purpose). If at any time in the judgment of the trustees of NAME OF CHARITY it is impossible or impracticable to carry out exactly the designated purpose, they shall determine an alternative purpose closest to the designated purpose.”
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The information here is educational and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Please consult your own attorney, accountant or financial advisor about how any gift would affect your particular situation.