Bequest
A bequest is a gift made to a nonprofit through a donor's will or living trust, providing charitable support from the donor's estate after death.
A bequest is a charitable gift made through a donor's will or living trust that directs a portion of their estate to a nonprofit organization after their death. Bequests are the most common form of planned giving and one of the simplest for donors to arrange.
Why It Matters for Fundraising
Bequests account for the majority of planned gifts received by nonprofits and often represent the largest single gift a donor ever makes. The average charitable bequest exceeds $70,000. Despite this potential, most organizations don't actively promote bequests — leaving significant future revenue untapped. Simply asking loyal donors to "remember us in your will" can open conversations that lead to transformational commitments.
Types of Bequests
Common bequest types include specific bequests (a defined dollar amount or asset), percentage bequests (a percentage of the estate), residuary bequests (what remains after other obligations), and contingent bequests (activated only if primary beneficiaries predecease the donor). Each serves different donor situations and intentions.