We have put together these frequently asked questions, which hopefully will have the answers you are looking for. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if there is anything else we can help with.
What should I leave in my Will?
Your gift may take form of a ‘residuary’, ‘pecuniary’ or ‘specific legacy’. To most of us this means:
- The whole or a percentage of the ‘residue’ of an estate (whatever is left after all other gifts have been made and any debts settled).
- A fixed sum of money left in your will is known as a ‘pecuniary’ gift.
- ‘Specific’ gifts are items such as a house to be sold or used, a medal or even stocks and shares.
Your gift can also be left to the RAF Benevolent Fund as a ‘reversionary’ gift; that is, a gift which goes to family or friends first during their lifetime, with the whole or a percentage reverting to us on their death.
What information do I need to update or change my will?
The minimum amount of information your solicitor will need is our charity registration number and address. It will also be worth having an idea of what type of gift you want to leave.
- Charity registration number: 1081009
- Address: Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, 67 Portland Place, London, W1B 1AR
How do I word my will?
Here is some example wording you could use to leave a gift in your will to the RAF Benevolent Fund.
It may be worth printing this off and taking it with you when you visit your solicitor. Specify your particular wishes by deleting as appropriate.
‘I give XX percent of the remainder of my estate or £ (cash amount) or my property of (give address) to the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund of 67 Portland Place, London, W1B 1AR (charity registration number 1081009) for its charitable purposes. I further direct that the receipt of the finance director or other proper officer of the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund shall be a full and proper discharge for the said legacy.’
Can you recommend a solicitor to write my Will?
If you need help to find a local solicitor, we recommend contacting the Law Society on 020 7242 1222. Alternatively you can contact your local Citizens Advice Beaureau.
We cannot recommend a particular solicitor and we currently do not provide a will writing service.
I already have a will – do I have to re-write it if I want to include a gift?
Not necessarily. If you already have a will and want to make small changes, it is possible to do so by adding a codicil, or supplement to your will.
Download a codicil form (Word 40KB), fill this in as instructed and return to you solicitor or whoever is looking after your will.
Alternatively, you could write a letter to your solicitor stating your wishes.
We recommend you consult your solicitor before making any substantial changes to your will.
Would it help you to know about my gift?
Yes, indeed. We would like to be able to thank you properly and let you know how your gift, in the fullness of time, will make a difference.
We’d also like to recognise your generosity, if you wish, with a special pin badge and invitation to an event.
I plan to live to 100! Will my gift still be needed then?
Yes, certainly. The RAF has been serving Britain for over ninety years and will be needed just as much in the future as new challenges to peace and security emerge.
The RAF’s technology may change dramatically, but there will always be men and women prepared to put their lives on the line to protect our way of life, and we will always be here for them if they need our help.
I would like to talk to someone about my intended gift
Please contact our fundraising team on 020 7307 3444, email legacies@rafbf.org.uk or write to us. We will be delighted to answer any queries you may have.
