With Christmas being all about giving, it is important to remember those less fortunate than ourselves.
Although many use their Wills to provide for their family after they die, your Will is also the ideal place to leave a gift for a charity.
This could be a random charity, or it could be one you hold close. But either way, why not review your Will this Christmas and consider helping others.
Why leave a gift to charity?
It is no secret that many charities wouldn’t survive without gifts left in Wills.
Some people decide that their family doesn’t need the money, or may be irresponsible with it, and feel it would be better used supporting a good cause.
Others are fortunate enough to have enough money to suitably provide for their loved ones and help a charity.
Whatever your reasons, it is the only real way to ensure the good work continues.
What do I need to do?
Firstly, if it isn’t already listed, you will need to have your Will rewritten.
This is very simple to do, and preparing your Will with a company such as LCS will ensure your Will is updated legally throughout your lifetime.
Once you have decided which Charity you would like to include in your Will, LCS will ensure that the full Charity details, registered number and address are entered properly so that there is no misunderstanding as to who the Charity is.
It may also be a good idea to discuss this with your intended family beneficiaries as they may struggle to understand your wishes and your reasons for including a Charity in your Will.
Is there anything else I can do?
This year, LCS have donated to five great causes and, if you believe it may cause upset, why not donate to your preferred Charity during your lifetime.
That way, you’ll likely avoid misunderstandings with family members, they will still receive their share of your estate and, you will have ensured your own wishes are fulfilled with minimal fuss.
It doesn’t always have to be money. You could also donate food, or clothing, there are many recycling centres where you can deposit your unwanted items and some Charities will arrange to collect larger items from you.
It is so important to help others less fortunate, and at Christmas, there is no better time to share joy.
