Chapman University's Bequest Language

One way for you to support Chapman University's mission is through a bequest. A bequest is a gift made to charity in your will or trust. One significant benefit of making a gift by bequest is that it allows you to continue to use the property you will leave to charity during your life. Another benefit is that by making a bequest you create a lasting legacy.
 

Drafting or Updating Your Estate Plans

A gift through your estate plans will continue Chapman University's tradition of personalized education for generations to come.

  • A thoughtful plan can support Chapman and your loved ones
  • A legacy gift doesn't cost you anything now
  • Estate plans can be modified as your priorities evolve
  • Your legacy gift can be personally meaningful and deeply impactful
  • You will create a legacy of philanthropic leadership and inspire others

Legal Information and Legacy Language

The information below is to assist you in providing for Chapman in your charitable gift and/or estate plans in consultation with your attorney, accountant, and/or other advisors.

Chapman's Legal Name and Description
Chapman University, a California non-profit public benefit corporation in Orange, California.

Confirmation of Chapman's Tax-Exempt Status
Chapman's federal tax I.D. number is 95-1643992.

Designating Your Gift
Your legacy gift may be unrestricted or you may choose to support a specific area, such as immediate needs, scholarships, research and more. If you need help finding the purpose that best represents your passion at Chapman, we would be honored to assist you.

Suggested Language for Including Chapman in Your Will or Living Trust

"I hereby give to Chapman University, a California non-profit public benefit corporation in Orange, California:

  • A specific bequest is for a specific amount, piece of real or personal property, such as a home or a collection or a percentage of your estate. Such bequests may read as follows, after the language above:
    • The sum of $___________ [specific amount] AND/OR
    • The following described property: ___________ [description] AND/OR
    • ___________% [percent] of my estate.

  • A residual bequest designates whatever remains of your estate after all debts, taxes, expenses and all other bequests to your beneficiaries have been fulfilled. It may read as follows: ___________% [percent] of the residue of my estate.

  • An unrestricted bequest is one intended for the best use by the university at the discretion of the Board. Such a bequest might include the following language: This gift shall be used for Chapman University's general use and purpose.
    • Alternatively, if you prefer to support the long-term financial health of the university, your gift can be designated to our permanent endowment with the following language: "This gift shall be added to the permanent endowment of the university."

  • A restricted bequest permits you to direct your gift towards a specific purpose. Such a bequest might read as follows: This gift is designated to the __________________ [specify school, college, program, etc.] to be used for __________________ [examples include: scholarships, research, education and equipment.]
    • An endowment (permanent fund) is an effective way to create a lasting legacy. If your estate gift is likely to be in excess of $50,000, you may wish to create a named endowed fund by including the following language: "The property comprising this gift may, for investment purposes, be merged with any of the university's investment assets. However, the gift shall be entered in the university's books and records as the [Endowment Name]. The Board of Trustees shall use the endowment payout from the [Endowment Name] to support the objectives and purposes of Chapman University."
      • Example of Name: Pete and Patricia Panther Endowed Scholarship

Important notation: A named endowed scholarship can create a meaningful legacy of providing opportunities for future generations. While we recommend keeping the scholarship available to as many students as possible, you can determine criteria used for selecting the recipients. Federal law, NCAA rules and fiscal policy may limit some criteria, so please contact us to craft appropriate criteria.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or wish to discuss your gift or recognition options, please contact us. Thank you for considering a gift to support Chapman University in your estate plans.

If you are considering a legacy gift, you should consult your own legal and tax advisors. We are glad to provide you and your advisors with detailed information.

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