Legal Language For Charitable Bequests

by William J. Moran, J.D., M.S.Ed.

Unrestricted Bequest

“I give devise and bequest to (organization name) , (state: ” % of my estate”, “the sum of _____” or “the residue of my estate”) under this will after the deduction of all debts, funeral expenses, and administration expenses, but before the deduction of any death, inheritance or estate taxes, it being my intention to exonerate this bequest from contributing to the payment of any such taxes.”

Designated Bequest

“I give, devise and bequest to (organization name) , (state: ” % of my estate” , “the sum of _____” or “the residue of my estate”) with the instruction that these funds be used for ________________, provided however, that should changing circumstances render this use of funds no longer practical or desirable, the Board of Trustees of (organization name) may make such changes in their use as it deems advisable.”

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