Why Leave a Legacy

Everyone can make a difference to the future of Exeter College through leaving a legacy. There are many who wish to make a significant gift to Exeter, but because of other commitments to their family and loved ones, feel unable to do so in their lifetime. Leaving a legacy allows you to make such a gift. By making provision in your will for Exeter you will be:

  • helping to ensure that the unique Exeter College community is preserved
  • investing in the College and in future generations of Exeter students
  • ensuring that others can enjoy the same experience at Exeter as you
  • safeguarding the academic excellence of Exeter College

There are many exciting ways in which you legacy gift can be used and we are happy to discuss ways of structuring your legacy, if you wish. However, we strongly recommend that you seek professional advice when writing or changing your will. The following are just a few examples of how your legacy can be used:

  • building up the College Endowment, which underpins the tutorial system
  • providing much-needed student support
  • epreserving the College’s buildings and aiding in the construction of new space for teaching, studying and living

What about Inheritance Tax?

Estates below the current (April 2009) threshold of £325,000 will not be liable to pay inheritance tax. If your estate exceeds this amount then 40% tax is payable (only on assets over the threshold). However, anything you leave to a UK registered charity, and any bills outstanding at your death (including funeral expenses) are exempt. Since Exeter College is a UK exempt charity, there will be no inheritance tax on the legacy that you leave to the College.