If you have already made a Will, but would like to leave a gift to the British Kidney Patient Association, you can do so by making a simple addition to your existing Will.  This is called a Codicil.

If you do not have a Will at the present time, we recommend that you seek the advice of a solicitor.  Although you will have to pay a fee, you will receive sound professional advice and can be sure that your wishes will be carried out.

There are two different types of legacy:

A pecuniary legacy.  This is a gift of a fixed sum of money.  There is no minimum amount that can be left.

A residuary legacy.  This is a gift of the whole or a share of whatever remains of your estate once you have provided for your loved ones and any debts have been paid off.

Will you pay tax on your legacy?

Most gifts made during your lifetime are tax-free, as long as you make them at least seven years before your death.  If you don’t, inheritance tax will be taken from all that you own above the current threshold amount.

A gift to a registered charity, however, is always free from inheritance tax.  So a legacy to the BKPA would effectively reduce any tax you have to pay.

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