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Making a will is a wonderful way to take stock of your values and priorities. The first step is usually to ensure that your loved ones are provided for. You then have the opportunity to consider whether you might leave a legacy to your favorite charities.
Remember that your non-profits rely on you year-in and year-out. Whether you are a volunteer, an occasional donor, or an annual contributor, your charities will miss you when you are gone, and your death will leave a gap that no one else can fill. Consider leaving a portion of your estate to charity.
It is recommended that you articulate your charitable gifts as percentages of your estate, rather than specific dollar amounts. Statistical evidence indicates that most people leave larger estates than they anticipate.
You may use this form to signify your bequest intention.
There is also specific
language you or your attorney may wish to use to make a bequest with various instruments.
Smith alumna Linda Sosnowitz '69, an attorney in
New York City specializing in wills and estates, has written an informative
and helpful article on wills.
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