"If they destroy this country, where will we go? The moon? America
is our last hope. If I don't stand up for freedom, I won't have fulfilled
my mission in life. Remembering Heritage in our living trust is one of the
ways I can make this happen."
-Karla Goldstein
Charitable Bequests
A bequest is one of the most straightforward ways that you can leave a gift to The Heritage Foundation and create a meaningful legacy for America. With the help of an attorney, you can make a meaningful gift in support of conservative principles while still maintaining the flexibility to modify your plans in the future if needed.
How a bequest works
Bequests of real estate, personal property, business interests and cash are typically made by way of a will or revocable trust. An estate planning attorney can help you include a charitable gift for Heritage or add a simple codicil to your existing will.
The method used to make a bequest will depend on the kind of gift you choose to leave to The Heritage Foundation. By making Heritage a percentage beneficiary, for example, the amount of your gift will automatically adjust itself with changes in your estate's value.
The last step in leaving any bequest involves the transfer to charity. When you pass away, the bequest property will be transferred to The Heritage Foundation. The full value of this gift will be transferred tax-free and your estate will receive an estate tax charitable deduction.
Different methods to bequest
- Percentage bequest - make a gift of a percentage of your estate
- Specific bequest - make a gift of a specific dollar amount or a specific asset
- Residual bequest - make a gift from the balance or residue of your estate
- Contingency bequest - have your gift default to Heritage in the event one of your heirs predeceases you
How do I make a bequest to Heritage as part of my will or trust?
With the help of an advisor, you can include language in your will or trust specifying a gift be made to family, friends or The Heritage Foundation as part of your estate plan.
[Example bequest language] - "I give, devise and bequeath to The Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002 [insert dollar amount, percentage of estate, or describe property] to be used for its educational purposes."
The Heritage Foundation's Tax ID number is #.
How can I learn more?
Have any questions?
If you have any questions about leaving a bequest, please contact us here. We would be happy to assist you.
Note: If you have been so generous as to include a bequest to The Heritage Foundation as part of your estate plan, please take the time to let us know. We would like to recognize you and your family for your generosity and extend the benefits of Heritage Legacy Society membership (you may also receive these benefits and choose to remain anonymous).
Let us help you create a meaningful legacy for America
