Sample Bequest Language

The following is provided to assist you when including a bequest in your Will to support the mission and purpose of Binghamton University.

First, use words of gift and name the beneficiary:

Then, specify an amount:

1. A specific bequest
   
   ...the sum of $ (or description of property)
2. A residuary bequest
   
   . . . all the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate
3. A percentage bequest of residuary estate
   
   . . . % of my residuary estate

Finally, designate a purpose:

1. Unrestricted gift (area of greatest need)
   . . . to be used by its Board of Directors as, in their judgment, will be of greatest benefit to the University."
   
   
2. A designated gift
   ... for the specific purpose of (describe purpose, such as scholarships, faculty development, professorship, etc.*)."


3. A perpetual endowment fund for scholarships, lectureships, or other specific programs*
   . . . to be known as the Endowment (Memorial) Fund. The fund will be invested by the Board of Directors as it deems advisable, in accordance with the investment policy in effect from time to time, to be used in such manner as the board determines (or for a specific purpose, scholarship, etc.)"


4. An endowed chair or professorship*
   
   . . . the sum of $ to endow a chair in the (school/college name) and department of to be known as the (name) chair in (field of study) . The fund may be invested by its Board of Directors as it deems advisable, in accordance with the investment policy in effect from time to time."

*Please contact the Foundation for assistance and additional information regarding minimum requirements to fund scholarships, chairs and other specific bequests and endowments.

Alumni and friends who designate a bequest by will or establish a planned gift to support Binghamton University qualify for membership in The Esther W. Couper Heritage Society, a special recognition organization to honor donors during their lifetimes.

For confidential assistance contact: Binghamton University Foundation Office of Gift Planning at phone: (607) 777-4712 or e-mail: giftplan@binghamton.edu. You are encouraged to consult with legal and tax advisors when considering a gift to Binghamton University.