Make an impact while planning for your future
We also offer the ability to create a free Revocable Living Trust
Everybody needs a will
Whether you’re 18 or 108, everyone should have a will in place. People use wills to choose who gets their property, name guardians for minor children, provide a plan for pets, and more.
Through a will, many people also choose to leave a part of their estate to Rutgers University and make an impact on the causes they love, for years to come.
Why give in your will?
Common gifted assets in wills and trusts
- Financial accounts
- Real estate
- Vehicles
- Brokerage accounts
- Crypto and NFTs
- Personal property
Make your will online – for free!
Rutgers University has partnered with FreeWill to offer an online estate planning tool that makes it easy and cost-free to make your plan. In as little as 20 minutes, you can help support our mission for future generations.
We also offer the ability to create a free Revocable Living Trust
Popular resources
Sample bequest language for your will or trust
This language may help you and your attorney as you consider a gift that will meet your financial and personal goals.
Sample codicil
When it’s time to update your will, you can use a codicil—an addition or supplement that explains or modifies your existing will.
Create a Lasting Impact at Rutgers
At Rutgers, our commitment to academic excellence, building community, and advancing the common good shapes everything we do. A gift in your will or trust helps ensure these enduring values continue to guide the University for generations to come, empowering future students, strengthening communities, and creating a brighter future for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
Yes! Letting us know about your planned gift helps us understand your intentions and gives us the opportunity to thank you and ensure your wishes are honored. If you prefer, your gift details can remain confidential, and you may choose to be recognized anonymously.
We’ve partnered with FreeWill to provide a free online tool that can help you create a will or trust. You may use it to complete your estate plans or to organize your wishes before consulting with your attorney or other professional advisor.
Yes! You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.
Contact Us
Our team is available to discuss your philanthropic goals and explore giving options that align with your values, family, and financial priorities.
Already included us in your estate plan? Let us know.
More ways to make an impact
Beneficiary designations
Retirement assets like IRAs and 401(k)s can be among the most tax-efficient assets to leave to charity, helping maximize your impact while preserving other assets for loved ones.
Popular tax-smart gifts
Many donors choose to give non-cash assets because they may provide tax advantages while maximizing charitable impact.
Gifts that pay you back
Give assets while providing yourself or others with income for a period of time or distributions at a later date.