Bequests

 A bequest is a gift made in a will or living trust. Following are the different types of bequests:

  • Specific bequest: a stated amount of cash, a percentage of your estate, or a specific asset, such as shares of stock.
  • Residuary bequest: a gift of all or part of the property remaining in your estate after debts, taxes, administration expenses, and specific bequests to other beneficiaries have been made.
  • Contingent bequest: a gift that take effect only if other beneficiaries you name do not survive you.
  • Bequest through a charitable remainder trust: income is to be paid to one or two named beneficiaries, with the trust assets ultimately passing to United Way.

To assist you and your attorney, following is suggested bequest language:

Unrestricted bequest:

An unrestricted bequest that can be used for the general purposes of United Way is the most helpful because it allows use of the gift wherever the need is greatest.

I give and bequeath the sum of $________(or ___ % of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate) to the United Way of the Wine Country, Santa Rosa, CA, for its general corporate purposes.

Restricted bequest:

A restricted bequest is one that is designated for a specific initiative at United Way.

I give and bequeath the sum of $_______(or ___ % of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate) to the United Way of the Wine Country, Santa Rosa, CA, to be used for the following purpose: (identify program: for example, 2-1-1 initiative). If the Board of Trustees of the United Way of the Wine Country, in its sole and absolute discretion, determines that circumstances are such that a literal compliance with the terms of this bequest is no longer practicable or appropriate, then the United Way of the Wine Country, may use this bequest for another purpose that as closely as possible carries out my original intention.

Your bequest may be to the United Way Endowment Fund, for permanent investment. Following is suggested language for an unrestricted endowment bequest:

I give and bequeath the sum of $______(or __% of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate) to the United Way of the Wine Country, Santa Rosa, CA, to be added to the United Way Endowment Fund, with the income earned on this bequest to used for its general corporate purposes.

For more information, please contact Mark Spaulding at 707.528.4485 x112.