Bequest in a Will or Trust
Why a Bequest?
- You retain full use and control of your assets during your lifetime
- You can modify or revoke the gift at any time
- No minimum gift amount is required
- Your estate may receive a charitable estate tax deduction
- Your gift can be directed to a specific nonprofit, charitable cause or left unrestricted
What is a Bequest?
A bequest is a gift made through your will or revocable living trust. It requires no immediate transfer of assets — you retain full ownership and control of everything during your lifetime. At the time of your passing, your designated gift is transferred to Greater Salina Community Foundation to support the organizations and causes that matter most to you.
Bequests are the most common form of planned gift and can be arranged with a simple addition to your existing estate documents.
| Bequest Type | Notes |
| Specific Bequest | A fixed amount or a specific asset (e.g., "I give $25,000 to Greater Salina Community Foundation" |
| Percentage Bequest | A stated percentage of your total estate (e.g., "I give 5% of my estate to Greater Salina Community Foundation." |
| Residuary Bequest | The remainder of your estate after all other gifts, debts, and expenses have been satisfied |
| Contingent Bequest | A gift that takes effect only if certain conditions are met (e.g., if a primary beneficiary does not survive you) |
How to Make This Gift
Suggested Bequest Language
If you would like to include Greater Salina Community Foundation in your will or trust, we suggest sharing the following language with your attorney:
"I give, devise, and bequeath to Greater Salina Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization located at 119 W Iron Ave, 8th Floor, Salina, 67401, Tax ID 48-1215503, the sum of $______ [or ___ % of my estate / or the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate] to be used to support charitable purposes outlined in the [Name of Fund(s) at the Foundation].
You can designate existing charitable funds held at the Foundation or establish your own Fund for the Future to support the organizations and causes in your name forever.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Letting us know about your bequest intention allows us to ensure your wishes are clearly understood, keep you informed on the impact of your future gift, and most importantly thank you.
Contact Michael Chambers, VP of Community Impact at 785-823-1800 or michaelchambers@gscf.org.
Greater Salina Community Foundation does not provide legal or tax advice. Please consult your financial advisor or estate planning attorney with any questions.
