Bequest – The gift that builds our future

An easy and low cost way to make a planned gift to Northeastern University is to include Northeastern in your will or revocable trust. Bequests are a major source of endowment support at Northeastern. Each individual legacy contributes to our financial strength and ability provide high quality, co-op based education for every generation of students. If you have not already done so, please consider putting Northeastern in your will or revocable trust.

Types of bequests

You can give almost any kind of asset to Northeastern University through a bequest, including cash, securities, an interest in real estate (such as a residence), tangible personal property (such as works of art or antiques). Ask your attorney about your bequest options, such as specific bequests, residuary bequests, testamentary trusts and QTip trusts.

Tax benefits

A charitable bequest is deductible for federal estate tax purposes, and there is no limit on the amount of the estate tax charitable deduction your estate can take. In addition, bequests generally are not subject to state inheritance or estate taxes. In a large estate, the savings can be more than half the value of the bequest.

How to make a bequest

A bequest to Northeastern University can be made by creating a new will, adding to your existing will, or including Northeastern in your revocable trust. If you include Northeastern in a bequest provision, please notify the Office of Gift Planning so that we may include you in Frank Palmer Speare Society. Your notification will be treated confidentially.

Samples of bequest language

The following are typical examples of the language that could be included in your will:

• Outright Bequest
  "I give to Northeastern University, an educational institution incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts and located in Boston, Massachusetts, the sum of _______ dollars ($_______)."
  
  
• Residuary Bequest
  "I give and devise (all or _______ percent) of the property, of whatever kind and wherever located, that I own at my death to Northeastern University, an educational institution incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts and located in Boston, Massachusetts.”
• Endowment funds for restricted purposes
  We can help you design a named endowment fund that expresses your values. Simply call us to discuss and we can create your special fund together.

Always consult your attorney before finalizing a will.

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For more information

E-mail us, complete the Personal Illustration form, or call us at (617) 373-2014 so that we can assist you.