Sophie Ashford, an Associate in law firm Blandy & Blandy’s Wills, Probate, Tax & Trusts team, explains…
Remember A Charity Week is an annual campaign which encourages people to consider leaving a gift to charity in their Will, once they have provided for family, friends and loved ones.
In 2026, the campaign runs from 7 to 13 September and brings together charities, lawyers and other professional advisers and the public to raise awareness of the lasting impact that legacy giving can have.
Why gifts in Wills matter
For many charities, gifts left in Wills are a vital source of income. They help fund long-term services, research, community projects and support for people in need. Unlike some fundraising income, legacy gifts can allow charities to plan ahead with greater confidence and continue their important work.
How can you benefit a charity in your Will?
There are several ways to support a charity through your Will or wider estate planning. You might choose to leave a fixed sum of money, known as a pecuniary legacy; a specific item, such as jewellery, shares or property; or a share of your residuary estate, which is what remains after debts, expenses, tax and other gifts have been dealt with. Some people also choose to name more than one charity, or to leave instructions about a cause they would like their executors to support if a chosen charity no longer exists.
What are the legal and tax considerations?
A gift to a qualifying charity is generally exempt from Inheritance Tax (IHT). In some circumstances, where at least 10% of the relevant net estate is left to charity, the IHT rate on the taxable part of the estate may be reduced from 40% to 36%.
However, the rules can be technical, so it is important to seek professional advice before relying on any tax saving.
It is also important that the charity is clearly identified in the Will, ideally by its full name, registered charity number and address.
Clear drafting helps executors carry out your wishes and reduces the risk of confusion or dispute. If you already have a Will, you should not simply make informal handwritten changes to it; instead, speak to a solicitor about whether a codicil or a new Will is the best option.
Blandy & Blandy is leading law firm in the Thames Valley, with offices in Reading, Henley-on-Thames and Wokingham. For further information or legal advice, visit www.blandy.co.uk or call 0118 9516800.
