Sample Bequest Language

Please note that gifts of this nature should be carefully considered in relation to your comprehensive financial and estate plans. We strongly recommend that you consult an attorney in the preparation of your will and to supervise its execution so as to comply with the legal requirements of your state.

Potential Types of Bequests
Unrestricted gifts are used for the greatest need at the time the bequest is received. If you are concerned about specifying an exact amount or nature of the gift, perhaps because the size of your future estate may be difficult to estimate, a bequest of the remainder or percentage of the remainder may be the best way to accomplish your goals. If you would like to honor a family member, a special person or provide support for a specific program or department, then you can designate your bequest specifically for that purpose.

Possible Bequest Language
The following language may aid you and your attorney in preparing your bequest for the benefit of McMurry University. If you are considering establishing an endowment fund with your bequest to provide scholarships, a professorship or other similar need, please contact us since there are minimum amounts necessary in order to insure your objectives are met. We are here to help you as you plan and can be reached at 325-793-4600 or toll-free at 1-800-477-0077.

Thank you for remembering McMurry University.

I give, devise and bequeath to McMurry University a nonprofit corporation organized in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, located at Abilene, Texas,

a) the sum of $____________________________ ;

b) the following described property ______________________ ;

c) ______ % of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate.

The property comprising this gift may, for investment purposes, be merged with any of the general investment assets of McMurry University, but the gift shall be entered in the University's books and records as the _________ Fund, and shall always be so designated. The distributions from the fund shall be used

a) to further the purposes of McMurry University;

b) to provide scholarships for deserving students of McMurry University;

c) to provide support for the College (or School) of ________________ at McMurry University;

d) to support a professorship in ___________ at McMurry University.

If you select a specific purpose for your gift, inclusion of the following sentence will ensure that the bequest remains useful through many decades.

If, in the judgment of the McMurry University Board of Trustees, changed circumstances should, at some future time, render the designated use of this fund impracticable, unwise or inappropriate, then the Board shall use the fund to further the objectives and purposes of McMurry University, giving consideration to my special interest as evidenced by the purpose described above.

If you choose to name McMurry University as a beneficiary, please let us know of your plans. This will enable us not only to show our appreciation of your generosity, but also to include your support in planning for the future of McMurry University.

If you already have a will
A codicil is a written change or amendment to a will. Click here for a printable copy of what a codicil would look like. Please remember to consult your attorney to make sure you are properly advised.

Click here to return to Wills and Bequests.

Please note, individual financial circumstances will vary. The information on this site does not constitute legal or tax advice. As with all tax and estate planning, please consult your attorney or estate specialist. All material is copyrighted and is for viewing purposes only. Use of this site signifies your agreement with the terms of use.The content in this Planned Giving section has been developed for McMurry University by Future Focus. Please report any problems to webmaster. Revised: October 24, 2006.