Bequests

In creating a will, a person exercises the right to choose what to do with a lifetime of accumulations. In this sense, a will is much more than a legal document. It is a testimony to the central values and commitments that have emerged from a lifetime of learning, growing and working.


Why make a bequest?

  • A bequest allows you to make a generous gift in the future without diminishing your estate today.
  • Your estate will receive a valuable tax credit for your final tax return.
  • Bequests are flexible. You can make a bequest anonymously, and you have the flexibility to change it at any time. A bequest provides the comfort of knowing your assets are still available to you today if needed.
  • With bequests of $10,000 or more, you can create a named endowment fund that will support United Way in perpetuity.


How does it work?

  • You can leave a specific dollar amount or a specific piece of personal property.
  • You can leave a share or a percentage of your estate.
  • You can provide for the needs of your loved ones (either through an outright gift or subject to a trust) and leave the rest (residue) of your estate to United Way.


Additional Resources

 

To learn more about United Way Ottawa and the many giving options available to you, please contact us at 613-228-6767 or giving@unitedwayottawa.ca.