Making a bequest in your Will

What is a bequest?

A bequest is the gift of money through a Will. Making a bequest to a chosen charity is a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy for future generations. The advantage of a bequest is that it doesn’t affect your financial security during your lifetime. Also, a bequest can be changed at any time by updating your Will.

Common types of bequests include:

Fixed amount bequest – A specific sum of money left in your Will. The amount remains constant regardless of changes in value over time.
Percentage-based bequest – A gift expressed as a percentage of your estate or specific assets.
Specific bequest – A particular asset.
Residuary bequest – Whatever remains in your estate after all debts and other gifts have been distributed.
Contingent bequest – A gift that only takes effect if certain conditions are met. (e.g., if another beneficiary passes away).

Who can make a bequest to charity?

Anyone is able to make a bequest. You can leave any amount to a charity, and you have complete flexibility to update your Will at any time. Making a bequest does not affect your financial security during your lifetime.

Why leave a bequest to the Milford Foundation?

The Milford Foundation aims to help strengthen the future of the communities within Aotearoa, New Zealand. Our granting pillars are youth, education, environment, and one-off crisis assistance. By making a bequest to the Foundation, you will be able to support future generations in areas that matter to you. Your gift can help to fund initiatives that create opportunities for young people, protect our environment, and provide support during times of crisis. Bequests of all sizes are welcome as every contribution helps to create a lasting impact and a stronger future for Aotearoa, New Zealand. As a registered charitable trust, we ensure that your gift is used responsibly and effectively.

How to make a bequest

Leaving a bequest is a straightforward process with the right guidance. We recommend contacting us to discuss your wishes and any questions you may have. Once you have clarity on what we can accept as a bequest, the next step is to work with a lawyer or Will provider. They can help you to:

Create a Will if you do not already have one.
Amend your existing Will to include your gift to the Milford Foundation.

Please refer to the Milford Foundation Bequest Guide here for more details on how to make a bequest to the Milford Foundation.

What to expect?

If you are considering making a bequest to the Milford Foundation, we’re here to guide you through the process. When you contact us, we will:

Listen to your wishes and answer any questions.
Provide clarity on what types of gifts we can accept.
Explain our focus areas and how your gift will make a lasting difference.

We aim to make the process simple and stress-free. Our approach is built on transparency, and we work closely with you to ensure your wishes are fully understood and can be aligned with our granting pillars.

Get in touch.

Phone – Call us on 0800 368 632
0800 Foundation

Office – Level 12, 50 Albert Street, Auckland 1010
Office hours: Mon – Fri 8.30am-5:00pm

Email – [email protected]