Sample Bequest Language

A gift to TWS in your will or revocable trust proclaims your confidence that we will continue to serve our mission and make a difference in the lives of future generations. A bequest:

• Is easy to arrange.
• Will not alter your current lifestyle in any way.
• Can be easily modified to address your changing needs.

Residual Bequest Language

A residual bequest comes to us after your estate expenses and specific bequests are paid:

I give and devise to The Wilderness Society, located in Washington, DC, all (or state a percentage) of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, both real and personal, to be used for its general support (or for the support of a specific affiliate, fund or program).

Specific Bequest Language

Naming The Wilderness Society as a beneficiary of a specific amount from your estate is easy:

I give and devise to The Wilderness Society, located in Washington, DC, the sum of $___________ to be used for its general support (or for the support of a specific affiliate, fund or program).

Contingent Bequest Language

The Wilderness Society or its affiliates can be named as a contingent beneficiary in your will or personal trust if one or more of your specific bequests cannot be fulfilled:

If (insert name) is not living at the time of my demise, I give and devise to The Wilderness Society, located in Washington, DC, the sum of $ _______ (or all or a percentage of the residue of my estate) to be used for its general support (or for the support of a specific affiliate, fund or program).

Retirement Plan Beneficiary Language

You may name The Wilderness Society as a beneficiary of your IRA or other qualified retirement benefits. Donors should consult with their tax advisor regarding the tax benefits of such gifts.

Naming TWS as the beneficiary of a qualified retirement plan asset such as a 401(k), 403(b), IRA, Keogh or profit sharing pension plan will accomplish a charitable goal while realizing significant tax savings. It can be costly to pass such assets on to heirs because of heavy tax consequences. By naming TWS as a beneficiary of a retirement plan, the donor maintains complete control over the asset while living, but at the donor's death the plan passes to support TWS free of both estate and income taxes.

Making a charitable gift from your retirement plan is easy and should not cost you any attorney fees. Simply request a change of beneficiary form from your plan administrator. When you are done, please return the form to your plan administrator and notify The Wilderness Society. We can also assist you with the proper language for your beneficiary designation to TWS.

Customized Language

If you or your attorney would like TWS to provide you with customized beneficiary language that is specific to your goal and interest, please contact us.