Sample Bequest Language

Clarkson University » Giving » Gift Planning

Glossary

A bequest to charity in your will or living trust makes a final statement of your life’s philanthropy. It is also a way to memorialize yourself and/or loved ones in a way that helps others. Below are examples of bequest language for a gift to Clarkson. Please remember to consult your legal, financial and gift planning advisers before creating or modifying a bequest. The correct name to use in a bequest to Clarkson is:

Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York
Federal ID #15-0543659

Specific Bequests:
Clarkson receives a specific dollar amount or stated percentage of the estate or specific assets (cash, securities, real estate, or tangible personal property).

Suggested Wording, unrestricted gift:
“I devise and bequeath to Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, federal ID #15-0543659, (insert sum, percentage, or description of property), which shall be used for such University purposes as the Board of Trustees may determine.”

Suggested Wording, restricted gift:
“I devise and bequeath to Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, federal ID #15-0543659, (insert sum, percentage, or description of property), which shall be used for (specify purpose).”

Suggested Wording, memorial fund:
“I devise and bequeath to Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, federal ID #15-0543659, (insert sum, percentage, or description of property), which shall be used to create ‘The ____________ Memorial Fund,’ (or “The ____________ Endowed Scholarship Fund”), the income therefrom to be used for its general purposes, (or describe the specific purposes).”

Residuary Bequests:
Clarkson receives a share or the entire remainder of the donor's estate after providing for specific legacies, debts, taxes, and estate expenses (usually after providing for family). 

Suggested Wording:
“I devise and bequeath to Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, federal ID #15-0543659, the rest and residue of my estate to be used in the discretion of the trustees for the general purposes, (or describe the specific purposes) of the University.”

Contingent Bequests:
Clarkson receives a share of the estate if, for example, other beneficiaries do not survive the donor.

Suggested Wording:
Since wording is unique to each individual circumstance, you should consult your legal counsel regarding your particular situation.


This web page does not provide legal or financial advice, nor is it a comprehensive review of the topic. You should consult your legal and financial advisers and Clarkson University before making or planning your gift.