Sample Bequest Language
- Unrestricted Gift: A
gift that can be used where need is greatest
I give to Yale University, in New Haven, Connecticut the sum of $_______* for its general purposes. - Gift for a Specific Purpose: A
gift that is to be used for a purpose you designate
I give to Yale University, in New Haven, Connecticut the sum of $_______* to be used for [state purpose]. - Perpetual Endowment Fund: A
gift that lasts in perpetuity
I give to Yale University, in New Haven, Connecticut the sum of $_______*, to be used as a permanent endowment, the income only from which shall be used for its general purposes (or describe the specific purpose, if desired). - Residuary Bequest: Leaves
any remainder after all other bequests have been paid
All the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, both real and personal, I give to Yale University, in New Haven, Connecticut for its general purposes. - Contingency Gift: Takes
effect only if a primary intention can’t be met.
If (name of beneficiary) does not survive me, or shall die during the administration of my estate, or as a result of a common disaster, then I give to Yale University, in New Haven, Connecticut all of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, to be used for its benefit. - Language
to include with restricted gifts
In the event that at some future time due to changed circumstances, in the judgment of the Yale Corporation, it becomes impractical to apply my bequest to the designated purpose(s), the Yale Corporation shall make such modification as will appropriately recognize my interests in coordination with University priorities.
* Rather than leaving
a sum certain, you can include language that refers to a percentage
of your estate or a description of the property you wish to give.