You have worked hard during your lifetime, gathering assets along the way. A Will is your opportunity to make sure that those you wish benefit from your assets. It is a simple process that ensures your wishes are fulfilled in the event of your death:

• Seek professional advice: A Will is a legal document, and it is advisable to ask a solicitor to make your instructions valid under law.
• Value your estate: This is an estimation of your financial liabilities (everything you owe) deducted from your financial assets (everything you own).
• Consider the tax implications: Gifts to charitable organisations such as the Bronte Society are exempt from Inheritance Tax. Your tax adviser will be able to explain how your charitable gift can reduce or eliminate the liability on your estate.
• Choose your beneficiaries: Decide who you would like to inherit your assets, someone dear to you or a cause/charity you want to support.
• Divide your assets: Decide who will get what and list them in your Will.
  
• Choose your witnesses and executors: When it is properly drawn up by the solicitor, you must sign your Will in front of two witnesses. You also need to appoint at least one person to carry out the instructions in your Will (executor).
  
• Keep your Will safe and up-to-date: You can alter your Will if your circumstances change or you change your mind. Any amendments can be made through a codicil, a simple document drawn up by a solicitor.
  

If you would like to know more about the difference your legacy could make to the Brontë Society, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you in strict confidence. Please contact the Director 01535 640194 or andrew.mccarthy@bronte.org.uk

Please note that the purpose of our legacy website section is to provide information of a general nature only. Advice from your own legal or tax adviser should be sought when considering any gift arrangement.