Bequests: leave a legacy! Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I have a will?

A will is a legal document that can safeguard the future of the people and causes you most cherish.  It records exactly how you wish your assets and possessions to be distributed after your death.  Having a will brings peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are in order.

What is a bequest?

A bequest is a gift in a will. It is a thoughtful way for you to support your loved ones and your favourite causes in the future.

What is the difference between a gift and a bequest?

From a legal perspective, a gift is a sum of money or an asset voluntarily transferred to the charity organisation, for which the donor does not receive anything in return. Bequests are gifts that are made as part of a will, and are transferred according to the donor's wish after their passing.

Who should write my will?

We recommend that you consult your lawyer or other legal advisor to ensure that your will is worded correctly and witnessed and signed properly. If you do not have a lawyer, contact:

The New Zealand Law Society

Phone: (04) 472 7837

Web: www.lawsociety.org.nz

Citizens Advice Bureau

Free phone: 0800 367 222,

Web: www.cab.org.nz

I already have a will – can I add a bequest?

If you already have a will it is very easy for your lawyer to add a codicil (attachment) to keep your will up to date.

Do I have enough money to make a bequest?

You do not need to be wealthy to leave a gift in your will. Bequests come in all sizes and are all valued by Save the Children. Many people find that a bequest is an ideal way to make a lasting contribution without impacting on their financial needs during their lifetime.

What about my family’s needs?

We appreciate that looking after your family is your priority. Once you are happy that their needs are provided for you may wish to consider leaving a bequest to Save the Children.

What if my circumstances change?

Your lawyer will be able to provide wording for your will to take account of any changes in your family or personal circumstances, such as marriage or divorce, and the birth of children or grandchildren. It is important to review your will regularly and make any updates that are needed.

What types of bequests can I make?

There are a number of options for leaving a gift in your will to Save the Children:

A specific sum or percentage of your estate:

A specific sum is an option but it is a good idea to think about the effects of inflation over time. What may seem like a large amount now may not seem so in years to come. Nominating a percentage of your estate instead of a cash sum means that you do not have to keep adjusting your gift to allow for inflation.

The residue of your estate

You gift what is left from your estate after all other gifts and costs have been deducted.

A specific gift of property or other assets

Other than property, your gift could be of shares, bonds or insurance policies.

How should I word my bequest to Save the Children?

The following is the wording to use (delete as appropriate):

 “I give and bequeath to Save the Children New Zealand ___ (insert here either % of estate, or residue of estate, or a sum of money, or a description of property or assets) for general purposes. A receipt given on behalf of Save the Children New Zealand will be a complete discharge to my trustees for the bequest”.

How do I make a bequest?

We recommend that you first discuss your plans with your solicitor and your immediate family. Instruct your legal advisor or trust company to include the wording above in your will.

Can I direct how my bequest is to be used?

As your bequest is unlikely to be realised for some years to come, we recommend that it is made for general purposes, so that our successors can have the flexibility to direct it to the area of greatest need at the time. However, if you are interested in directing your gift to a specific area of our work please call us on 0800 167 168 to discuss some options.

Who should I tell when I have made my bequest?

We recommend you keep your family informed of your bequest intentions. We would also greatly appreciate knowing of your plans so that we can thank you for your support and invite you to become a member of the Eglantyne Jebb Society, named in honour of the founder of Save the Children.

As a member you will receive updates on our work and invitations to special events. There are no fees or obligations associated with membership; rather the Society has been established as a way for us to thank and acknowledge our very special bequest donors.

Any bequest details that you choose to share with us will remain confidential.