At Slater Heelis, we believe that planning for the future is not only about protecting your loved ones, but also about making a meaningful contribution to the world you leave behind. One way to do this is by including a gift to charity in your Will: a simple yet powerful act that can help support the causes you care about for years to come.
As proud supporters of the Remember A Charity initiative, we encourage individuals to consider how their legacy could extend beyond family and friends. By choosing to leave a charitable gift, you can help fund vital services, research, and community initiatives that make a real difference.
What is a charitable gift in a Will?
A charitable gift, also known as a legacy donation, is a way of giving to a registered charity through your Will. This might be a specific sum of money, a valuable item, or a percentage of your estate once other commitments have been fulfilled.
These gifts are often a lifeline for charities, helping them continue their work in areas such as healthcare, education, animal welfare, and environmental protection. Even a modest donation can have a lasting impact.
1. Consider the causes that matter to you
Take time to reflect on the organisations that have influenced your life or align with your values. Whether it’s a local hospice, a national research charity, or a community arts programme, your support could help them continue their mission well into the future.
Writing down your thoughts can help clarify your intentions and guide your decisions.
2. Talk to your loved ones
Once you’ve made the decision to include a charity in your Will, it’s important to share your plans with those closest to you. These conversations can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure your wishes are respected. It also gives your family the opportunity to support your decision and understand the values behind it.
3. Seek legal advice to ensure your wishes are properly recorded
To make sure your charitable gift is legally valid and reaches the intended organisation, it’s best to speak with a solicitor. At Slater Heelis, our experienced team can guide you through the process, helping you draft or update your Will with clarity and confidence.
We will ensure your instructions are accurate, that the charity is correctly identified, and that your wishes are fully reflected in the final document.
FAQ’s
Can I specify what I would like the charity to do with my gift?
You can specify what you would like the charity to do with your gift, however it is always best to discuss your wishes verbally with the charity, before putting it in writing.
There have been cases of charities refusing a gift as they could not meet the requirements in the Will. Ensure both you and the charity have come to a sound agreement.
What can I give to charity in my Will?
Your gift to a charity does not need to be a sum of money. You may wish to leave a particular item, such as a piece of jewellery, or perhaps you wish to leave a portion of your property. Although, do note the charity is likely to need to sell the asset to be able to benefit from the funds.
Is it possible for family members to dispute the gift left in my Will?
Under the Inheritance Act, family members may have grounds to dispute your charitable gift if it did not make sufficient financial provision for them.
They could also argue that at the time of writing the Will, you were under the influence, or lacked the mental capacity to make your own decisions. Learn more about if and when a will can be contested.
Do I need to pay tax on my charitable gift?
Any gift you make to UK charities is free from inheritance tax (IHT) and it could mitigate your tax liability overall. When you leave at least 10% of your estate to charity, the inheritance tax liability of the rest of your estate falls from 40% to 36%.
If, however, you wish to leave a gift to a charity outside the UK, the situation may become more complicated. Get in touch for more information.
Ready to take the next step?
Including a gift to charity in your Will is a thoughtful way to leave a lasting legacy. It’s not just about giving: it’s about creating a future shaped by your values and generosity.
If you would like to explore this further, our Private Client team is here to help. Contact us today to arrange a conversation and take the first step towards making a difference.
Get In Touch
Alex Sealy is a Partner and the Head of our respected Wills and Probate Team. He specialises in complex estate management, probate and inheritance tax planning.
If you’d like to talk to Alex or another member of our team in Manchester or Sale about leaving a gift in your will, please call 0330 111 3131 or fill out our online contact form.
