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Gifts in wills
Your support will mean that we can open our doors to the most talented people regardless of their gender, race or religion, ensuring that brilliant minds of all kinds have a stake in shaping our future, and securing UCL’s own legacy as a force for good in the world.
It will ensure that our researchers have the tools they need to tackle some of the world’s most complex problems and can uphold the founding spirit of radical curiosity of our exceptional institution.
“I enjoyed the benefit of a fantastic education experience, at a time when it was essentially free. I’m conscious that I was very lucky, and I have decided to make a legacy gift to UCL so that I can give something back." - Margaret Mountford, lawyer, businesswoman and Chair of the Bright Ideas Trust, PhD Greek & Latin (2012)“
Frequently asked questions
- What impact will my gift have?
Legacy donations are an increasingly important way of underpinning the long term financial independence of UCL and ensuring its continued success. By leaving a gift in your will, you will be making a lasting and significant difference to the UCL community and beyond. For some people, it is the opportunity to make their most significant and personal gift — it can be very much the gift of a lifetime.
- Can I add a legacy gift to UCL to an existing will?
Yes, you can add a codicil to your existing will that includes UCL. A codicil is an addition or amendment to a will and is a straightforward way to add another gift or make minor changes to an existing will. Please do seek the advice of a solicitor before entering a codicil to ensure it is properly executed.
- If I fill out and submit a legacy pledge form, am I under any obligation to leave UCL a gift?
No – submitting the legacy pledge form does not put you under any obligation to give to UCL and you are free to change your mind at any time. Your decision to leave a gift to UCL and all the information you send to us is strictly private and confidential.
- Does UCL have charitable status?
Yes, UCL has charitable status for all UK tax purposes. It is listed as an ‘exempt’ charity under Schedule 3 of the Charities Act 2011 and therefore does not have a registered charity number. UCL’s registration number with HMRC is X6243.
- What are the tax benefits of leaving a legacy?
In the UK, donations left to organisations with charitable status are exempt from Inheritance Tax (IHT). Including a gift to one or more charities in your will can reduce the overall tax liability of your estate. Furthermore, by leaving 10% or more of the ‘net value’ of your estate to charity in your will, you could also be eligible for a reduced rate of Inheritance Tax on some, or all, of your assets. Please speak to your solicitor who will be able to offer further advice on this.
- Can I choose where my gift goes?
You can direct your gift to a specific area or leave it unrestricted, for the university to allocate to areas of greatest need. We would advise you to speak to a member of our Advancement Office to discuss the area you would like to give to, in order to ensure that UCL will be able to carry out your wishes.
- How does UCL recognise those who have pledged to leave a legacy?
UCL is proud to recognise and thank its supporters. If you have already pledged to leave a legacy, or if you intend to do so, we offer a range of engagement opportunities. Designed to recognise and celebrate the generosity of our supporters, our activities ensure you can see first-hand the impact that philanthropic support has on our community. For those who pledge at the most generous levels, membership to our Circle of Benefactors is offered, along with bespoke recognition activities
- What if I don't currently have a will?
Having an up-to-date will is really important. That’s why we have partnered with online will writers Bequeathed to offer our alumni and supporters the chance to write their will online for free. There is no obligation to leave a gift in your will to UCL but of course it would be wonderful if you chose to do so.
- Can I leave a gift to UCL if I am based outside the UK?
Yes, UCL gratefully receives planned gifts from alumni and supporters from all over the world. For more information, please contact us using the details provided at the top of this page.