Frequently Asked Questions
We have compiled a list of frequently asked wills and legacy-related questions
and answers. These include suggested wording for a legacy to HealthProm
which your solicitor might find useful.
Do I need a solicitor to write my will?
We recommend you seek advice from a solicitor so that they can make sure that everything is covered by law and what matters to you is protected. You can find a local solicitor who specialises in wills by calling the Law Society on 0207242 1222 or online at http://solicitors.lawsociety.org.uk/
What kind of gift can I leave?
A residuary gift is a share of your estate after all other legacies have been made and all costs have been met. Residuary gifts are expressed as a percentage so they remain proportional to the value of your estate. Residuary gifts can reduce the number of times you need to update your Will, as they change accordingly with your financial circumstances.
A pecuniary gift is a stated sum of money.
How should I word my gift?
It is important that HealthProm is correctly identified and that your chosen gift is described in enough detail. We recommend that you take the following suggested wording to your solicitor:
For a residuary legacy (a percentage of your residuary estate):
“I give <insert percentage of your estate> of my residuary estate to HealthProm of 200A Pentonville Road, London N1 9JP, registered Charity No 1100459 for its general charitable purposes and I declare that the receipt of the proper officer of the charity shall be a full and sufficient discharge.”
For a pecuniary legacy (a set amount):
“I give <insert amount> to HealthProm of 200A Pentonville Road, London N1 9JP, registered Charity No 1100459 for its general charitable purposes and I declare that the receipt of the proper officer of the charity shall be a full and sufficient discharge.”
Can I leave HealthProm a gift if I have already written my will?
If you already have a will and would like to update it to include a gift to HealthProm, you can use a codicil. However, if you wish to make a number of changes to your will, it is recommended that you consult a solicitor as it may well be that your will needs to be rewritten.
Will it affect inheritance tax?
If your estate is liable to inheritance tax then a legacy would reduce that tax.
Can I specify a particular country or programme where I would like my legacy to be used?
Yes although if HealthProm was no longer working in the area specified your gift would be put towards our general purposes.
Other helpful resources
Citizens Advice: Advice on creating a will and why it’s important
Law Society: Run by the Law Society, Find a Solicitor is a free service for anyone looking for information about people providing legal services in England and Wales that are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
Law Society Scotland: Run by the Law Society of Scotland
HMRC: Learn more about Inheritance Tax