A bequest is a gift given in your will.
- You may make a bequest to Messmer by writing a new will or adding a codicil to your existing will.
- Charitable bequests can include gifts of cash, securities, real property, other tangible personal property (such as artwork) and can be given as a percentage of your estate or as a part of your estate that remains after other gifts have been given.
- Bequests are free from the federal estate tax and can significantly reduce taxes against your estate.
- You may make an unrestricted bequest which would permit Messmer to decide how to best use your gift.
- You may place restrictions on how Messmer uses your bequest.
- Although Messmer recommends that you work with your attorney when drafting a new will or adding a codicil, following are options which may be helpful to you in making a bequest.
Bequest Options
Unrestricted Bequest:
I give and bequeath to Messmer Catholic Schools, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation located in Milwaukee, WI, (the sum of ____dollars) or (a specific asset) or ( ____ % of the remainder of my estate) to be used for its general purposes.
Bequest for a specific purpose:
I give and bequeath to Messmer Catholic Schools, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation located in Milwaukee, WI, (the sum of____dollars) or (a specific asset) or ( ____ % of the remainder of my estate) to be used for ______(examples: scholarship, athletics, books or a particular program).
For more information about bequests, please contact Messmer’s Development Office at 414-264-5440 or development@messmerschools.org