RSABI is a unique Scottish charity dedicated to the relief of hardship and poverty amongst people who have depended for their livelihoods on the land.

Leave a legacy

How to give to RSABI in a will

One of the best ways in which you can support RSABI is by leaving a gift in your will. Such gifts, or legacies, will be used effectively and efficiently to help those people in rural Scotland facing acute hardship. For most people, of course, providing for their families and friends is their priority. However once family and friends have been taken care of a small gift from the remainder of your estate can make a big difference to the work of RSABI. You should speak to a solicitor about your will and any changes you might wish to make to it. However, the following are the typical questions which you might have:

• What types of legacies are there?
• What wording should I use in my will?
• Why do I need a solicitor?
• Can I save on tax by leaving a legacy?

What types of legacy are there?

There are 3 types of legacy:

1. A residuary legacy - once you have provided for your family and others you can leave the remainder or a percentage of your estate to RSABI e.g. 10%
2. A pecuniary legacy ­ - a specific sum of money e.g. £1000.
3. A specific gift e.g. a house, jewellery, a farm.

Back to top

What wording should I use in my will?

You should consult with your solicitor on wording your will. We would suggest the following wording and would advise that in order to avoid any misunderstandings in your will, your solicitor refers to this form of words:

To leave a share of your estate (residuary legacy)

I give all/a share (please state the percentage or fraction) of the residue of my estate absolutely to RSABI, or its successors, of The Rural Centre, West Mains of Ingliston, Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LT, Scottish Charity Number SC009828 to be applied by RSABI or its successors for its charitable purposes, and I direct that the receipt of the Directors or any other proper officer of RSABI or its successors for the time being shall be sufficient discharge to my executors.

To leave a specific sum (pecuniary gift)

I give to RSABI, or its successors, of The Rural Centre, West Mains of Ingliston, Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LT, Scottish Charity Number SC009828, the sum (write in here the amount in figures and the amount in words) to be applied by RSABI or its successors for its charitable purposes, and I direct that the receipt of the Directors or any other proper officer of RSABI or its successors for the time being shall be sufficient discharge to my executors.

To leave a specific item

I give to RSABI, or its successors, of The Rural Centre, West Mains of Ingliston, Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LT, Scottish Charity Number SC00 9828, (write in here whatever you wish to give) to be applied by RSABI or its successors for its charitable purposes, and I direct the receipt of the Directors or any other proper officer of RSABI or its successors for the time being shall be sufficient discharge to my executors.

Back to top

Why do I need a solicitor?

As a will is a legal document if it isn’t prepared properly it may make it invalid. That’s why the RSABI recommends using a fully qualified solicitor to make or change a will.

Back to top

Can I save on tax by leaving a legacy?

The 2011 Budget introduced new concessions concerning tax levels if a proportion of an estate is left to charity. For full details of this, and current allowances for individuals and couples you should speak to your accountant or solicitor.  RSABI is not allowed to advise on such matters. Back to top