“The RHS has given me a lifetime of inspiration, tranquillity, horticultural skills and knowledge. I would like to help generations of gardeners to share my passion.” - Mrs Anne Fragniere, RHS member
Useful information
Why does the RHS need legacies?
The RHS is a registered charity (222879/SCO38262). For more than 200 years the RHS has set the standard for all issues relating to horticulture, gardens and gardening.
From the time Sir Joseph Banks, John Wedgwood and the five other founders created the Society, our aim has been to be the leading authority in our field and expand our work and influence throughout the world.
The RHS receives no support from the government and relies solely on the generosity of our members and self-generated income. Many of the society's plans for the future can only be realised through additional funding, including legacies.
Can I choose where you spend my legacy?
Yes, you can specify how your money is spent, however leaving a bequest for us to use in the way we feel best allows us the most flexibility and is of most benefit. This allows us to target funds where they are most needed at any given time.
Specific legacies
We will endeavour to spend your legacy as you have requested. However in some circumstances where there are very specific terms attached to your legacy we may not be able to spend your legacy or accept it if the terms do not fall under our remit of work.
We do therefore ask if the legacy is for very specific purposes that you discuss your legacy with us so that we can ensure that we can carry out your wishes. We will very happily arrange meetings with our science and education departments, and gardens staff if you wish to discuss our work further.
What are the inheritance tax implications of leaving a legacy?
The RHS is a charity and money left to a charity is exempt from tax. If your estate is worth more than £312,000 inheritance tax must be paid out on the excess before the people you wish to leave your money to can benefit. Inheritance tax is currently set at 40 per cent. Your solicitor will advise you if you could be liable to pay inheritance tax on your estate and can suggest ways of minimising your liability.
How to make a will?
A valid Will is the only guaranteed way for your wishes to be carried out and for your legacy to reach the RHS. Making a will isn't complicated and should cost you less than £100.
Find out more about making a Will
What shall I write on my legacy to the RHS?
View our suggested wording for leaving a legacy to the RHS
Where can I find a solicitor?
Visit the Law Society website to help you find a solicitor
Can the RHS be one of my executors?
Unfortunately, the RHS is unable to act as an executor. We recommend that you choose an executor who is a professional advisor, family member, friend or a combination of these. Your solicitor will advise you as to the eligibility of a chosen executor.
Will my legacy be remembered in some way?
As a way of saying thank you, the RHS will send every legacy pledger a young tree, generously donated to the RHS from Oakover Nurseries in Kent.
There are three types to choose from - field maple, whitebeam and English oak and they have been specially selected to suit all soil types and gardens. We hope they will be a living reminder of your commitment to the RHS and something that can be enjoyed in your lifetime.
Can I choose how much I want to leave and does it have to be for a lot of money?
You can specify exactly how much you would like to leave to the RHS and no, it doesn't have to be a lot of money, any contribution is much appreciated towards supporting our work.
Can I talk to someone who can answer my queries about Will making and leaving a legacy to the RHS?
A member of the RHS Legacy Department would be more than happy to answer all your queries.
Contact us
The Development Office
RHS
80 Vincent Square
London
SW1P 2PE
Tel: 020 7821 3693
developmentoffice@rhs.org.uk