Bequest Language

A bequest is one of the simplest ways to make a planned gift to the Cleveland Museum of Art. A bequest is a testamentary gift made by will or trust, which may be as general or as specific as you wish. Your will may designate a dollar amount, a percentage of your estate, specific property, or the remainder of your estate, or your bequest may be contingent upon other events outlined in your will. And, should you desire, the purpose for which your bequest is to be used may also be expressed. (If you wish to designate the purpose of your bequest, we encourage you to contact the Cleveland Museum of Art Planned Giving staff to discuss your interests.)

Since its founding, the museum has received countless bequests, both large and small. No matter how modest, these bequests have played an important role in the success of the museum. We hope you will consider including the Cleveland Museum of Art in your will.

• Bequests are simple to set up. In fact, the charitable bequest has become the easiest and most common method used by Americans to support the charity (or charities) of their choice.
• Assets left to the museum are removed from your taxable estate, thereby reducing any estate taxes that may be owed.
• A bequest allows you to retain full control of and access to your assets, but it also gives you the pleasure of knowing that the museum will benefit from your generosity.
• You will be welcomed into the museum’s Legacy Society, a special group of friends who have remembered the museum in their estate plans.

UNRESTRICTED BEQUESTS

If you are considering a bequest to the Cleveland Museum of Art or have questions about other ways to make a planned gift, please contact the Planned Giving Office at 216-707-2158.

This information is not professional tax or legal advice. Please consult your legal or financial advisor about your specific situation.