Legacies - Frequently Asked Questions

here can be a lot to think about when it comes to making or adapting your Will.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions you might have.

  • Do I have to make a Will?
  • Do I need a solicitor?
  • Do I need to think about inheritance tax?
  • Can I change my existing Will to include a gift?
  • What if I can only leave a small gift?
  • What information do I need to include?
  • What do I do if I've already left a gift?

 

Do I have to make a Will?

Making a Will is the only way to make sure your family and friends are provided for in the way that you want. Otherwise, your exact wishes may not be carried out after you die. It’s also important to make a Will to protect your loved ones from an unwelcome tax bill.

 

Do I need a solicitor?

No, but we’d always recommend that you do for independent advice and to ensure your Will contains the correct legal wording. If you do not have a solicitor, The Law Society can help you find a suitable one in your area.

In England and Wales, go to www.lawsociety.org.uk, or call 020 7242 1222.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Law Society of Northern Ireland at www.lawsoc-ni.org, or call 028 9023 1614.

 

Do I need to think about inheritance tax?

There’s no tax payable on a gift left to charity in your Will. It could even reduce the total amount of your estate that may be liable for inheritance tax.

 

Can I change my existing Will to include a gift?

Yes, simply ask your solicitor to add something called a Codicil to your Will. It’s also a good idea to regularly review your Will to make sure it’s up to date. For example, there may have been births, deaths, marriages or divorce in your family since your last looked at your Will.

 

What if I can only leave a small gift?

Every gift we receive, large or small, can help transform the lives of people with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, so we’re always extremely grateful for whatever help you can give.

 

What information do I need to include?

If you'd like to include Shine in your Will, please ask your solicitor or Will writing service to use our full name, address, and charity number to ensure we receive the gift:

  • Name: Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus, Information, Networking, Equality – SHINE
  • Registered office: Unit 4, The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Peterborough PE2 6FT.
  • Registered charity number: 249338 Company registered in England and Wales number: 877990

 

What do I do if I've already left a gift to Shine?

Thank you for including us in your Will, we are very grateful and we’d love the chance to thank you personally so please get in touch with us by calling 01733 555988 or emailing fundraising@shinecharity.org.uk.