There are several ways to include the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh in your will. Your solicitor can advise which is right for your circumstances.
Residuary gift
You leave a percentage of your estate — or whatever remains after other bequests and expenses are settled. This is the most flexible option: its value grows with your estate over time, and it automatically adjusts if your circumstances change.
Pecuniary gift
You leave a fixed sum of money. Simple to arrange, and easy to specify. Bear in mind that the real value of a fixed sum may reduce over time due to inflation.
Specific gift
You leave a named asset — shares, property, or a treasured item. This can be a practical way to direct something of personal significance to the College. Please be sure to discuss this with the College before adding it to your wishes.
Beneficiary designation
You name the College as a full or partial beneficiary of a pension fund or life insurance policy. This is often one of the most tax-efficient ways to give, as pension funds in particular may be subject to significant tax if passed to family members. Your financial adviser can confirm the current rules.
Whatever form your gift takes, it will be used where it is needed most, unless you wish to direct it to a specific purpose. We are happy to discuss this with you.
Sample bequest language
Suggested wording for your solicitor
The following sample wording can be shared with your solicitor when updating your will. Please ask your solicitor to confirm the most appropriate form of words for your circumstances.
Legal name and registered address:
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, 9-11 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 1JQ Scottish Charity Number: SC009465
Residuary gift (a percentage of your estate)
"I give [ ]% of the residue of my estate to the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Scottish Charity Number SC009465, of 9-11 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JQ, to be used for its general charitable purposes."
Pecuniary gift (a fixed sum)
"I give the sum of £[] to the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Scottish Charity Number SC009465, of 9-11 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JQ, to be used for its general charitable purposes."
Residue of estate
"I give the whole residue of my estate to the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Scottish Charity Number SC009465, of 9-11 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JQ, to be used for its general charitable purposes."
If you wish to direct your gift to a specific fund or purpose, please contact us before finalising your will so we can confirm that your intentions can be fulfilled.
This wording is provided as a guide only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult your solicitor.
