What is a bequest?

A bequest is a gift directed to McMaster Divinity College, specified according to your wishes through a provision in your will. Funds can be bequeathed as a specific dollar amount or asset, or as a percentage of the residue.

What are the benefits?

As with any charitable donation, you may direct your gift to the area that is the most meaningful for you – and you may also provide an unrestricted donation to support the College’s greatest needs.

A bequest intention is revocable and can be changed if your personal or financial circumstances change.

An estate can often provide a much larger gift than the donor can afford during life. With a little planning, you may be able to leave a significant legacy for generations to come.

A bequest gift is eligible for a charitable tax receipt that can be applied to the final two income tax returns, which will reduce the overall tax burden on your estate.

You can make a provision in your will to donate publicly-listed securities, which could result in significant tax savings for your estate, as it will be exempt from the capital gains tax.

Bequests are important sources of future income and/or assets for McMaster Divinity College and knowledge of these generous provisions allows the College to plan ahead for years to come.

Your Legacy for the Future

We would be pleased to provide you with more detailed information on the different forms of bequests, as well as sample wording for your bequest intention.

Ask us about other tax-smart and strategic ways to make a future gift tailored to your personal timeline and charitable goals. Once your needs and those of your loved ones have been met, please consider supporting future generations at McMaster Divinity College. Contact John Steadman at steadmanj@mcmaster.ca or 905.525.9140 x23325 to discuss any of this information.

Legal Name: McMaster Divinity College
Charitable Registration Number: 11903 5970 RR 0001
Primary Address: McMaster Divinity College, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada