Bequests in wills and trusts

A bequest is a gift included in a donor’s will or trust directing that a portion of their estate be given to a nonprofit organization.

Bequests are one of the most common and accessible forms of legacy giving.

Bequests may be structured in several ways:

• A specific dollar amount

• A percentage of the estate

• The residue of the estate (what remains after other gifts)

Often, adding a bequest requires only a short amendment to an existing will or trust.

Example

A long-time supporter includes a provision in her will directing that 10% of her estate be distributed to the nonprofit. Upon her passing, the estate executor fulfills her wishes and transfers the gift to the organization.

Pro Tip

Donors often rely heavily on their attorneys when establishing estate plans. Providing sample bequest language and your organization’s correct legal name and tax identification number can make the process easier for advisors.