Remembering us in your Will

By remembering Depaul UK's work (after friends and family) in your will, you will leave a lasting legacy to protect young people who are homeless and help to prevent youth homelessness.

Many people think that only rich people leave money to charity when they die. This isn't the case. The reality is however big or small your gift, you can make a significant difference to the lives of the homeless, vulnerable and disadvantaged young people we work with.

Why is it important to make a will?

Making a will is the only way you can be sure that your wishes will be followed after you die.  If you don't make one, part or all of your estate may go to people who you never intended to benefit.  Also, if you don't prepare properly, a substantial part of what you leave behind may go to the State, depriving your loved ones and favourite charities of the benefit of your assets.

What are the tax advantages of making a legacy to Depaul UK or other charities?

Inheritance Tax will be payable on your estate if it is worth more than the tax-free threshold (£325,000 in 2010-11).  Apart from some exemptions, anything over the threshold will be liable to tax at 40%. 

Therefore, leaving a legacy to Depaul UK could reduce the tax bill on your estate as your gift will be deducted from the value of your estate before it is assessed for tax. If your gift reduces the value of your estate to £325,000 or less, then no inheritance tax is payable.

How to go about making a will

Writing a will is relatively easy and inexpensive, but should always be drafted by a properly qualified professional.  If you do not have a solicitor you can find one through The Law Society. 

How to change your will

Minor changes or additions can be incorporated into your will by making a codicil.  A codicil is an instruction that is added to your existing will and changes it in any way you wish. It must be drawn up and executed in the same way as a will in order to be valid.

To find out more about how to give to Depaul UK in your will please contact Tim Harford on 0207 939 1276 or click here.