Why should I leave a gift to WVS in my Will?
Leaving a gift in your Will is a powerful way to protect animals long into the future. After taking care of your loved ones, even a small percentage of your estate can help provide lifesaving veterinary care for vulnerable animals worldwide.
Can WVS help me make my Will?
Yes. We have partnered with expert estate planners, Octopus Legacy, to provide a free Will writing service to all our supporters. We hope that in return you'll choose to leave a gift to WVS so we can continue providing life-changing care to the animals that need us most.
You can prepare your Will over the phone, online or even in-person. Click here to find out more about our free service.
Do I need a solicitor to make or update my Will?
We recommend using a qualified solicitor or Will-writing professional to ensure your wishes are legally binding and carried out exactly as you intend.
Can I leave a gift if I already have a Will?
Yes. You can update your existing Will at any time. Many people choose to add a simple document called a codicil to include a gift to WVS.
It's important to regularly review your Will to ensure it still reflects your wishes so it may be a good opportunity to do this at the same time.
Is it worth giving, even if I don't have a lot?
Absolutely. No matter the size of your gift, it will contribute to life-saving care across the globe. Every single legacy gift we receive has gone on to do something incredible.[BM1]
What types of gifts can I leave?
There are three main types of gifts you can leave:
A residuary gift
– a percentage of your estate
A pecuniary gift
– a fixed amount of money
A specific gift
– an item such as shares, property, or valuables
Any gift, big or small, will help animals who have no one else to care for them.
Do I need to tell WVS if I’ve included a gift in my Will?
You don’t have to, but we’d love to hear from you and thank you properly. Anything you choose to share with us will remain confidential. Knowing about pledges also allows us to better plan for the future.
Will leaving a gift affect how much my family receives?
We always recommend looking after your family and friends first. Many supporters choose to leave a percentage of their estate rather than a specific sum. This also means your gift will keep its value even 20 years from now.
Can I choose how my gift is used?
If you’d like your gift to support a specific area of our work, please speak to us first and we will do our absolute best to accommodate your wishes. Typically, unrestricted gifts are especially helpful because they allow us to direct support where animals need it most.
Is my gift subject to inheritance tax?
Gifts to charities are 100% tax free. A gift to WVS could reduce your inheritance tax, but we recommend speaking to your solicitor who can advise you on how this might affect your estate planning.
Can I leave my pet in my Will?
Yes. Although we expect a loved one to care for our pets should the worst happen, this isn't always possible. Including your pet in your Will can ensure they have a safe and loving future.
You can find out more about pets in your Will here.
What information do I need to leave a gift to WVS?
You’ll need our registered details: Name: Worldwide Veterinary Service Charity No. 1100485 (England & Wales) Address: 4 Castle Street, Cranborne, Dorset BH21 5PZ
Who can I speak to for more information?
Our team is happy to help and answer any questions in confidence.
Phone: 01725 557225
Email: Legacy@wvs.org.uk