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  • 1.  Guidance on Updating a Contingent Bequest Now Confirmed by Donor

    Posted 05-29-2025 03:12 PM

    Greetings! I'm reaching out for insights on a bequest entry scenario we're navigating.

    In a prior fiscal year, we recorded a zero-dollar contingent bequest expectancy based on the donor's estate plans at the time. We've now received verbal confirmation from the donor that the bequest is no longer contingent, and their spouse has agreed to honor the bequest if they are the surviving spouse.

    Given this update, I'd appreciate your guidance on the following:

    1. From a gift entry perspective, would you recommend:

      • Modifying the original zero-dollar contingent bequest record to reflect the updated status and estimated value?
      • Entering a new bequest expectancy in the current fiscal year?
      • Or is there another approach to consider?

    2. What backup documentation do you typically require in a case like this?

      • Is a written confirmation from the donor sufficient?
      • Would you request additional documentation?

    Thank you!
    Leah



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    Leah Richards
    St. John Fisher University
    lrichards@sjf.edu
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  • 2.  RE: Guidance on Updating a Contingent Bequest Now Confirmed by Donor

    Posted 05-29-2025 03:38 PM
    Per CASE, you need some form of written documentation to record any amount. A "verbal" communication is not sufficient. CASE urges a copy of the will or a formal bequest pledge signed by the donor. At the very least, I would put in writing to the donor your understanding of the amount of the bequest and ask them to confirm your understanding.

    Since you used a zero-dollar placeholder, nothing has been counted. If you update that original entry, you will miss the opportunity to count the value in the current reporting period. I'm inclined to remove the placeholder and enter a new bequest with its value - but make a note regarding the original notification date.

    John

    John H. Taylor, Principal
    John H. Taylor Consulting, LLC
    2604 Sevier Street
    Durham, NC     27705

    919.816.5903 (cell/text)

    Serving the Advancement Community Since 1987






  • 3.  RE: Guidance on Updating a Contingent Bequest Now Confirmed by Donor

    Posted 05-29-2025 03:50 PM

    Thank you, John. Glad to hear you suggest this since it's a much cleaner approach. We have a letter of intent we received last fiscal year as backup documentation. This paired with updated written communication from the donor seems like it would suffice. Thanks again! 



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    Leah Richards
    St. John Fisher University
    lrichards@sjf.edu
    ------------------------------