Sample Bequest Language

A gift to NWF 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 National Wildlife Federation, located in Reston, VA, 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 fund or region).

Specific Bequest Language

Naming National Wildlife Federation as a beneficiary of a specific amount from your estate is easy:

I give and devise to National Wildlife Federation, located in Reston, VA, the sum of $___________ to be used for its general support (or for the support of a specific fund or region).

Contingent Bequest Language

National Wildlife Federation 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 National Wildlife Federation, located in Reston, VA, 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 fund or region).

Retirement Plan Beneficiary Language

You may name National Wildlife Federation 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 NWF 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 NWF 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 NWF 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 National Wildlife Federation. We can also assist you with the proper language for your beneficiary designation to NWF.

Customized Language

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