Bequest Information

Help make a difference to people living with multiple sclerosis through a bequest to the MS Society of W.A.

Many of our donors recognise the importance of supporting the MS Society of Western Australia and make the decision to continue that support even after their death. What this means is that these people have generously set aside a gift for the MS Society in their Will. For them, this gift signifies a lasting and meaningful contribution that impacts the future and lives of those with MS, their families and friends.

We hope you will consider making a decision to include the MS Society of Western Australia in your Will.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is a Bequest?
How can I make a bequest?
What is a Will?
Who can help me make a Will?
Why do I need a Will?
How will making a bequest help the MS Society?
Do I need to let the MS Society know that I have made a bequest?
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What is a Bequest?

Here are three examples of a bequest:
1. A Specific Sum - in its simplest form, a bequest is a specific sum of money left in your Will to be received by a beneficiary. It is important to note that the disadvantage of this is that it does not allow for depletion of your estate nor for inflation. In this instance, it will be important to review your Will regularly.

2. Percentage – leaving a percentage of your estate ensures that your beneficiaries are not affected by the changes in the size of your estate or by inflation.

3. The Residue – After providing for families and friends, you may decide to leave the residue of your estate (what is left) to the MS Society of W.A.

How can I make a Bequest?

Making a bequest to the MS Society can be made when making your Will and is a straight forward process. Our Bequest and Gift Giving Officer can provide you with helpful information about bequests.

Please contact Antonette Spirito on (08) 9365 4895 or e-mail mailto:antonette.spirito@multiple-wa.asn.au Gift Planning Officer

What is a Will?

A Will is a document signed in the presence of two witnesses and which the Supreme Court recognises as your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets after you have died. A valid Will can be made when you are 18 years of age.

Your assets can include money, property, shares, insurance policies, furniture, paintings, personal effects etc. All the assets of a deceased person are described as their ‘estate’. The people who benefit from your Will are your ‘beneficiaries’.

Who can help me make a Will?

You can make a Will without any legal help, but you will need to know all the legal requirements to make a valid Will and also the correct wording to minimise the risk of a challenge to your Will. A do-it-yourself Will Kit is not recommended.

Solicitors and Trustee Companies can assist you with making a Will. Whether you use a solicitor or a trustee company is your decision. Using a solicitor or a trustee company to assist with arranging your Will can make things so much easier. They can also give advice on minimising tax depending on the way your Will is arranged. This is especially important when you are considering making a bequest to a not-for-profit organisation such as the MS Society of Western Australia. This solves the problem of keeping your Will in a safe place.

Why do I need a Will?

By making a valid Will, it ensures that your assets will be left to the people you love and care for, together with those you wish to help.

If you do not have a valid Will, the court determines that you have died ‘intestate’. It then appoints an administrator who distributes your assets according to a specific legal formula.

Remember to keep your will up to date. As the years go by you will acquire more assets and your domestic circumstances may change.

How will making a bequest help the MS Society

A Bequest to the MS Society of WA will assist people living with the effects of MS today and for future generations. Your funds will be directed to research projects for a cure to the disease and vital support services including counselling for the whole family (especially important following diagnosis of the disease); physiotherapy and occupational therapy; access to current information, peer support and lifestyle planning; accommodation services (including respite care); support in the metropolitan, regional and country areas; and medical research. If you want your gift to impact a particular area, we are happy to explore the possibilities with you. Whatever your decision, we will gladly honour your requests and wishes.

Do I need to let the MS Society know that I have made a bequest?

You do not need to let the MS Society know that you have made a bequest, however, we value the chance of thanking you personally in advance, rather than the Executor of your Estate. Surprises are nice, but the knowledge of your Bequest gives the MS Society greater confidence knowing the necessary financial resources will be available to assist living with MS in the future.

Printable donation form

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multiple@multiple-wa.asn.au