Tools and Resources

A residual bequest comes to us after your estate expenses and specific bequests are paid.

I give and devise to Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York, XX percentage of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, both real and personal, to be used for its general support (or for the support of a specific fund or program).

Naming Vassar College as a beneficiary of a specific amount from your estate.

I give and devise to Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York, the sum of $___________ (or asset) to be used for its general support (or for the support of a specific fund or program).

Gifts to Vassar College under your will may be given for unrestricted use, directed to a particular program, or added to the endowment. In balancing your wish to benefit a special purpose with our evolving financial needs, we ask that you describe restrictions as broadly as possible, avoiding detailed limitations. The more narrowly restricted the bequest, the more important it becomes to include a provision such as the following:

In the event that such use should prove to be impossible, impracticable, or undesirable for any reason as their governing body may determine, in their sole discretion, they shall then provide for alternative uses of the fund in a manner consistent with and reflecting the spirit of the original gift.

Vassar College or its affiliates can be named as a contingent beneficiary in your will or personal trust if one or more of your specific bequests cannot be fulfilled.