What happens if I don’t have a will?
If you die without making a will, this could result in your estate not going where you would have wished. For instance, your husband or wife may not automatically receive all of your estate.
Who should write my will?
It is very important to act with the advice of a good solicitor. If you do not already have one that your trust, it is wise to ask friends, family or someone within your church for recommendations. The cost of using a solicitor varies depending on how complicated your will is and where in the country you live.
How can I find a Christian solicitor?
Contact the
Association of Christian Law Firms at this address: Ellis-Fermor and Negus, 2 Devonshire Avenue, Beeston, Notts NG9 1BS. Tel: 0115 922 1591
Can a gift to charity help me pay less tax?
The money and assets left in your estate may be subject to inheritance tax (the rules for which can change with any Chancellor’s budget). It may be of advantage to divide your estate so that your family and friends are left gifts below the tax threshold and so do not have to pay for inheritance tax. The remainder can then be shared between as many charities as you choose, since charities are exempt from paying this tax.
What is the current inheritance tax threshold?
The current inheritance tax threshold is £325,000. This may change with the budget in April 2012. Since March 2011, if you leave 10 per cent of your estate to charity then the government will reduce the inheritance tax rate from 40 per cent to 36 per cent on the rest of your estate.
Can I specify how my money is used?
Over time, how and where CMS works may well change, and so it is preferable not to specify exactly where and how your legacy will be used. Be assured that all general donations will be allocated to where the need is greatest to fulfil the mission of CMS.
If I've left a gift in my will, should I tell you?
Yes. If you could let
Hannah Caroe know that would be wonderful. It will allow us to thank you properly and communicate with you sensitively in the future.
How do I find out more about leaving a gift in my will?
For any and all questions about leaving a gift in your will, please contact our
legacies coordinator.