After someone dies, it’s possible for beneficiaries of their estate to make changes to how assets are distributed. This is called a Deed of Variation. It allows the people inheriting under a Will (or under the rules of intestacy) to redirect all or part of their inheritance to someone else, including a charity like St Wilfrid’s Hospice Chichester.

One of the key benefits of varying a Will to include a charitable donation is the potential tax saving. Gifts to UK-registered charities are exempt from Inheritance Tax (IHT). If at least 10% of the chargeable estate is gifted to charity, the IHT rate on the rest of the estate is reduced from 40% to 36%. This means beneficiaries may retain more, while the hospice receives a meaningful legacy.

A Deed of Variation must be made within two years of the date of death, and all affected beneficiaries must agree. It doesn’t require probate to be completed, and it’s a recognised legal process under UK law.

By varying a Will in favour of St Wilfrid’s, families can celebrate their loved one’s memory through a gift of compassion and care. Legacies help us provide free, expert support to patients and families when it matters most.

We recommend speaking to a solicitor or adviser if you’re considering this option. It’s a generous act that can have a lasting impact – on both your family’s tax position and the lives of those we care for the most.

You can also download our free Gifts in Wills Guide below.