Make a Gift through your Will or Estate Plan


Sample Bequest Language

The term “bequest” refers to a gift made upon the death of the donor through their will or trust.

Several types of bequests are possible

  • General: for a certain dollar amount: “I leave the sum of $20,000…”
  • Specific: a particular asset: “I leave 100 shares of ACME stock.”
  • Percentage: “I leave 10% of my estate to …”
  • Residual: a gift made once other assets have been distributed: “fifty percent of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate I leave to…”
  • Contingent: A gift made only under certain conditions: “in the event my spouse does not survive me, I leave …” 
When framing the language of your gift to St. Joseph Abbey and Seminary College, you can direct it “to be used where the need is greatest” or earmark it to support a particular program such as an endowed fund. 

Next Steps

  • Review the bequest language above to determine what kind of gift might be right for you. A bequest could be as simple as:
“I give to Saint Joseph Abbey and Seminary College, having a principal place of business at 75376 River Road St. Benedict, LA 70457, Federal tax identification number 72-043900, ____ percent of my total estate (or $_____, or other property) to be used or disposed of in its sole discretion as it deems appropriate.”

•    Discuss your situation with your attorney. He or she can help you determine whether to make a bequest through a will, an amendment (“codicil”) to your existing will, or perhaps as a distribution from a living trust.

  • Once you have arranged a gift, please let us know. Doing so will help ensure we fulfill your wishes.

  • If you wish to be recognized, naming SJASC in your will qualifies you for membership in The St. Benedict Society. 

For more information, contact:

Scott Wallace, Director of Institutional Advancement
(985) 867-2235 • swallace@sjasc.edu

Because everyone’s situation is different, we encourage you to seek professional legal, estate planning, and financial advice before deciding on a course of action. This information does not constitute legal or financial advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice.