A legacy is when you leave a sum of money in your will to a charitable cause. Some people leave their entire estates, but most leave a modest sum. However much you choose to leave, is up to you. But rest assured... that every legacy counts, no matter how large or small.

Perhaps you already have a favourite charity. Maybe there are several you'd like to support. Or maybe you've always wanted to give money to a cause, but have never been able to, because of the pressures of everyday life and looking after family.

Either way, many people find that leaving a legacy to benefit others after they've gone, is one of the most wonderfully, rewarding experiences of their lives.

There are two types of legacy you can leave in your will:

A residuary bequest

You make provisions for your nearest and dearest first, then leave the remainder, or part of the remainder of your estate to one or more preferred charities.

If you are making a residuary gift, the following text can be used in your will:

"I give to (insert name of organisation) of (insert address of organisation), all (or a fraction) of the residue of my estate whatsoever and wheresoever, and I direct that the receipt of the Treasurer or other officer for the time being of the said Organisation shall be a full and sufficient discharge of the same".

A pecuniary bequest

You state in your will that a specific sum of money will go to a particular charity, or charities of your choice.

If you are making a gift of a fixed sum or specific item, the following text can be used in your will:

"I give the sum of €_______ or I bequeath (the item specified) to (insert name of organisation) of (insert address of organisation), and I direct that the Treasurer or other proper officer for the time being of the said Organisation shall be proper and sufficient discharge for the same".