A local firm of solicitors is encouraging more people to leave a legacy through their will, as part of a UK wide initiative which kicks off next week.
Shropshire-based PCB Solicitors is supporting this year's Remember A Charity Week, which runs from 8th – 15th September and will see charities across the UK take part in a range of activities to encourage individuals to leave a charitable donation in their will.
“We’re encouraging local people to spare a thought for their favourite charity next week,” explained Pauline Davies of PCB Solicitors. “Charities carry out some incredibly worthwhile work, and legacies are an essential form of income for many. Some people give generously to charity throughout their lifetime, whilst others may find it easier to leave something behind once they’ve gone. It could be a lump sum of money, jewellery or even part of the value of your property, and it’s important to be aware of the options available so that you can make the right choices for you and your family.”
Research suggest that more than a third of people who support charities during their lifetime would leave a gift in their wills, unfortunately only around 7 percent actually get around to doing it and only three in 10 people in the UK have made a will. In accordance with regulations laid down by the government, unprotected money that is left behind goes straight to the Treasury, and in 2012 the government received a total of £38.5 million from people who died intestate.
Pauline continued: “There are also tax benefits of leaving a gift to charity, particularly if your estate is liable to Inheritance tax. A gift to charity is exempt from Inheritance Tax and since 6th April 2012 people who leave at least 10 percent of their net estate to charity may be able to pay a reduced rate of Inheritance Tax of 36 percent.
“Everyone is different and what might be right for one person, may not be right for another. Making a will is the only way to make sure that your estate is handled in accordance with your wishes. I would advise those interested in leaving a gift to charity to call our Shrewsbury Head Office on 01743 248148, or visit the website via the link.”
PCB Solicitors LLP is a modern partnership, with offices in Shrewsbury, Broseley, Church Stretton, Craven Arms, Knighton, Ludlow, Telford, and Worcester. While they have origins back to 1860, the firm is forward-looking and offers a full range of legal advice for both individuals and businesses, including property, family advice and childcare matters, wills, trusts, probate and estate planning, accident and personal injury, litigation, criminal law and corporate and business law.
