Gifts In Wills
Why make a Will?
One in five people in the UK die without ever making a Will. Many think they do not have enough money or possessions to make a Will worthwhile. However, if you don't make a Will, part or all of your estate could go to people who you never intended to benefit.
It is a good idea to review your Will from time to time to ensure it reflects any changes in your personal circumstances, like marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren or coming into an inheritance. Not only that, inheritance legislation means if you don't prepare properly, a substantial part of what you leave behind may go to the State.
Thankfully it is easy, quick and inexpensive to have a Will drafted by a fully qualified professional. It is usually very straightforward but as with any legal document it is always best to seek professional advice.
Making a Will is the only way to ensure that whatever you do have is divided up according to your wishes. With a Will, your loved ones are not left to face complicated legal and financial matters at a time when they will already have more than enough to cope with.
Why give to Herriot Hospice Homecare in your Will?
For most of us, a Will is one way of looking after people we love once we are gone. You never know if a member of your family will be affected by a terminal illness. A gift to Herriot Hospice Homecare is an extra way of making sure that the people you care about and people who you never meet, are cared for if they ever need us.
The different types Of Legacies
With a Legacy, you can help create a better future for local people with life limiting illnesses.
There are three main ways to leave a gift to Herriot Hospice Homecare in your will:
- Cash Legacy - Cash donations are always very welcome. Do remember however, that cash donations tend to decrease in value over time. To avoid this you can either index link your gift to review it periodically to retain its original value.
- Family and Friends First Legacy - At Herriot Hospice Homecare we know that caring for your family is a priority. However, after making provisions for your family and friends you can leave whatever is left in your estate - the residue - to Herriot Hospice Homecare alone or with other charities.
- Legacy in Kind - Specific items such as property, shares, jewellery or furniture can be gifted. Leaving the contents of your home as a gift in your Will is welcome.
In addition, if you find yourself as a beneficiary under a Will, you can transfer all or part of your inheritance to Herriot Hospice Homecare using a 'Deed of Variation'. This can be used to help reduce inheritance tax.
If you wish to add Herriot Hospice Homecare to your existing Will, your solicitor will simply attach a written instruction called a codicil.
What if I can only leave a small gift?
Even a small gift will make a huge difference. A £100 donation can help provide two double staffed visits to an end of life care patient and a £187 donation can give a carer a decent night's sleep by paying for an overnight stay by a Herriot nurse. If you would like any more information please call 01609 777413 for a copy of our legacy guide.
