Remember a Charity Week: FAQs for charitable giving

Remember a Charity Week is a fantastic opportunity for us to take a moment to consider leaving a gift to charity in our Wills, after we have looked after our loved ones.

Blake Morgan are proud to support this year’s Remember a Charity Week, which runs from 7 to 13 September 2026.

Charitable gifting can be a complex topic. In this article, we answer some of the commonly asked questions surrounding this topic.

Why should I leave a gift to a charity in my Will?

In the UK, legacy giving is one of the biggest sources of income for charities.

Even if you may already be a supporter of the charities that have helped you or a loved one during your lifetime, or whose causes you are passionate about, you can ensure that their work will continue after your death by including them in your Will.

You don’t need to be wealthy to benefit a charity in your Will as even a small gift from your estate will go a long way.

What are the tax implications of leaving a charitable gift in my Will?

Charities in the UK have special status for tax purposes and this extends to gifts left to them in Wills. These gifts qualify for a charitable exemption which means the gifts will not be subject to inheritance tax.

In addition, if you leave at least 10% of the net value of your estate to one or more charities, the overall inheritance tax rate applicable to your whole estate is reduced by 10% (to 36% from the standard 40%).

The rules and calculations involved can be complex, so you should consult an expert for tailored advice to ensure your Will is suitable for your circumstances and has the desired effect.

How do I leave a gift to a charity in my Will?

There are three types of gifts that you can make in your Will.

1. A specific legacy: A gift of a specific item, such as property, book collection or jewellery. These can often be sentimental items most suitable as a gift to a loved one, but you may have belongings of use to a charity, or something of value you want to gift to a charity.
2. A pecuniary legacy: A gift of a fixed sum of money. Pecuniary legacy payments are given priority, and are paid before your residuary estate is distributed. As such, if leaving a gift to charity is a priority, or if you have concerns about how much may be left in your estate once liabilities and expenses are met, you may choose to leave a pecuniary legacy to charity.
3. A residuary legacy: A share of whatever assets are remaining after all specific legacies, pecuniary legacies, taxes, debts and other expenses are paid. You can set out the percentage share of your estate each residuary beneficiary is to receive (or one beneficiary can receive the whole of your residuary estate), though it is difficult to predict the value each share may have. You cannot know the value of your estate on your death, or what the liabilities and expenses may be deducted.

When leaving a gift to a charity in your Will, you must include the full and exact name of the correct charity, their registered address and registered charity number. These details can be obtained from the Charity Commission and are important to identify the intended recipient clearly.

Why is it important for my Will to be drafted properly?

It is a popular misconception that a charitable gift becomes invalid if the charity of your choice has changed its name, merged with another charity, or is no longer in existence when you die These administrative concerns can be properly addressed in a professionally drafted Will, which guarantees that any charitable gifts made in your Will endure the test of time.

Your Will could either allow your executors to choose a comparable charity to receive the gift or provide alternative provisions. This will all depend on how the Will is drafted, so it is crucial to obtain legal advice when preparing your Will to ensure it is suitable and reflects your wishes.

How can we help?

Our specialist Succession and Tax team are here to guide you through the process of making a Will and as part of your estate planning, we will offer customised advice on the best way to leave gifts to charities in your Will.