Thinking of leaving a gift to the British Hen Welfare Trust in your will? New tax changes mean legacy giving is more impactful for us – and more tax-savvy for you – than ever.
If you’ve ever considered including the British Hen Welfare Trust in your will, first off, thank you so much. Just being in your thoughts means the world to us.
Legacy gifts, however big or small, help us continue to rehome thousands of hens every year and campaign for better hen welfare across the UK. And as it turns out, there’s never been a better time to put those plans in place.
In Rachel Reeves’ recent Autumn Budget, rules on inheritance tax (IHT) mean legacy giving is not only a profound act of generosity. It can also, depending on your circumstances, be a wise, tax-efficient move.
Here’s why it matters more than ever, and how your lasting gift can protect both the causes you care about, and the people you love.
Inheritance tax is likely to affect more families
One of the biggest headlines from the Autumn Budget was, ironically, something that didn’t technically change.
The government has frozen the inheritance tax “nil rate band” at £325,000, and the residence nil-rate band at £175,000, until at least April 5th 2031. That means the threshold for paying IHT isn’t keeping pace with rising house prices and other asset values, so more estates will tip over the limit and become taxable.
That’s where legacy giving comes in. Gifts left to UK-registered charities like the BHWT are completely exempt from inheritance tax, no matter how much you give. And if you choose to leave 10% or more of your estate to charity, the tax rate on the rest of your estate may drop from 40% to 36%.
It’s a simple, generous way to reduce your tax burden – and do some real good.
From 2027, pensions may face inheritance tax too
Another big change you should be alert to – from April 2027, unused pension funds and death benefits will be counted as part of your estate for inheritance tax purposes.
This is a shift. Many people have long assumed their pension would pass on untouched. But under the new rules, it could become taxable depending on the total value of your estate.
Including a gift to charity in your will can help offset that exposure, giving you more control over where your money goes and how it’s used. Whether that’s supporting your family, or doing what you can to help hens in need.
Legacy giving is still fully tax-free
The good news? Charitable legacy gifts are still 100% exempt from inheritance tax!
That means they remain one of the simplest and most efficient ways to support the causes you believe in. And often, it’s as simple as adding a line to your will – your solicitor will be glad to help.
For our supporters, that might mean helping hens enjoy a free-range retirement, funding our helpline, or supporting vital welfare campaigns. However your gift is used, you can be sure it will go where it’s needed most.
Planning now brings peace of mind later
With so much uncertainty around future rules – and estate values fluctuating all the time – making plans now is one of the best ways to give yourself peace of mind.
By writing a gift into your will today, you’re locking in a clear, tax-effective decision that’s less vulnerable to future policy changes. You’ll know exactly what your gift means – and we’ll be able to plan for the future too.
Your legacy reflects your values
Ultimately, a legacy is about more than money. It’s about what you believe in – and what you want to pass on.
Whether you’ve adopted ex-commercial hens yourself, supported our campaigns, or simply believe in a kinder future for farm animals, leaving a gift in your will to the BHWT is a lasting way to protect those values.
It helps us continue our work – rehoming thousands of hens each year, campaigning for better welfare standards. And it ensures that your nest egg lives on in the best possible way.
How to leave a gift to BHWT in your will
Leaving a legacy gift is easier than you might think. If you’d like to support us in this way, you can:
- Speak to your solicitor about updating your will.
- Use a free will-writing service online (some offer discounted or charity-linked options)
- Let us know if you’ve already left a gift – we’d love to say thank you
For more information about legacy giving and how it helps, visit bhwt.org.uk/donate/leave-a-legacy/ or get in touch with our friendly team.
This article is general information, not financial or legal advice. Tax rules can change, so please speak to a solicitor or qualified adviser about your own situation.
