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Remembering Birkbeck in your will

Throughout our history, alumni, friends and donors have helped Birkbeck by leaving a gift in their will to the College. These gifts have enabled us to forge ahead at the cutting edge of education, opening doors to students of all ages and backgrounds and nurturing them within our unique model of teaching. Alongside this, they have aided ground-breaking research discoveries that continue to shape the thinkers, leaders and innovators who drive our society forward.  

Thank you for considering this wonderful way to support Birkbeck. Your gift will help us to ensure that our mission can continue and thrive long into the future. 

We appreciate that this is a very personal decision. Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have so that you feel confident in your choice. To contact us, you can or call her on +44 (0)20 3926 3240. 

You may also like to hear from Helen, a student who has benefitted from a gift left to Birkbeck, and read about Paris, one of our generous supporters. 

Frequently asked questions

Please note: the information on this page does not constitute legal or tax advice. When making or revising your will, please do so in consultation with your solicitor or will writer.

How do I include a gift to Birkbeck in my will?

  • There are several types of gifts that you can leave in your will. We would advise you to explore all options with your solicitor or will writer. The two types that we most frequently receive are:
  • Residuary gift: Leave a share, or the whole, of your estate. Residuary gifts can be most beneficial as they retain their value over time.
  • Pecuniary gift: Leave a fixed amount of money to Birkbeck. To maintain the real value of your gift over time, you can make the gift index-linked to protect against inflation.

Do you have recommended wording to include Birkbeck in my will?

  • We always recommend that you speak to your solicitor or will writer about the most appropriate wording for your will, but you can use the following sample wording as a guideline:
  • 'I give the Governors of Birkbeck College (University of London), incorporated by Royal Charter, of Malet Street, London WC1, the whole or [%] of my residuary estate OR the sum of £X to support where need is greatest. I direct that the receipt of an authorised officer of the said College shall be a full and sufficient discharge to my personal representative.'

Can I include a gift in my will to Birkbeck for a specific purpose?

  • We will do everything we can to respect the wishes of our supporters. If you would like your gift to be directed to a specific area of the College, we can work with you on more detailed wording. Please  or call her on +44 (0)20 3926 3240 so we can assist you with this. 

Does Birkbeck have charitable status?

  • Yes, Birkbeck has charitable status for all UK tax purposes in accordance with the Charities Act 2011. Consequently, we do not have a registered charity number.

What are the tax benefits of leaving a gift to Birkbeck in my will?

  • There are many tax benefits involved in remembering Birkbeck in your will. Birkbeck has a charitable status and is an 'exempt' charity under Schedule 3 of the Charities Act 2011, so gifts left to Birkbeck are not subject to tax.
  • By remembering the College in your will, you may be able to reduce the taxable value of your assets and so lower the amount of inheritance tax due on your estate.
  • We recommend that you speak to your solicitor or will writer about inheritance tax. If you'd like to find out more, you can view the HMRC's guidance on inheritance tax.

Do I need to let Birkbeck know that I have left a gift in my will?

  • We understand that the decision to remember Birkbeck in your will is a personal matter. However, we hope that you will tell us about your gift so that we can make note of your intentions, recognise your generosity, and thank you. Of course, if you wish to remain anonymous, we will honour your wishes. Any information you share with us will be kept private and confidential.

How do I contact Birkbeck to let the College know of my intentions, or ask questions?

  • You can , our Regular Giving Officer, or call her on +44 (0)20 3926 3240. You can also write to Development and Alumni, Birkbeck, University of London, Malet Street, London WC1E 7HX. 

Why do I need a will?

  • No matter your health or financial situation, it is important to make a will. A will, written with the help of a solicitor or will writer, is the only way to be sure that your assets will go where you intend them. If you do not have a will or have an invalid will, all or part of your possessions may go to HMRC and not to your loved ones.

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