As a charity, we have a duty to make sure that the maximum value is obtained from legacies to Operation Smile. This means that we have a duty to collect certain information, depending on the type of legacy left to the organisation.
We would work with the executor(s) to ensure a smooth transfer of the gift and can use our experience to support the executor(s) if needed.
If you decide not to take on the responsibilities of an executor, you can instruct a solicitor or other professional to do it instead.
Documents we require for legacies
Operation Smile UK is regulated by the Charity Commission in England and Wales and by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator in Scotland. We are obliged by law to make sure that we receive all legacies left to Operation Smile UK and to maximise that income wherever possible. We are required to collect certain information, depending on the type of legacy left to us.
If we are mentioned as a beneficiary in a will, please contact our legacy manager, Pippa Fawcett, as soon as possible. You can contact her by phone on 020 3475 5126 or by email on pippa.fawcett@operationsmile.org.
You can also write to:
Pippa Fawcett, Legacy Manager
Operation Smile UK
Unit A, Genoa House
Juniper Drive
London SW18 1FY
If the deceased was a regular supporter of Operation Smile, we will be able to stop further mailings being sent out and prevent any unnecessary distress to the family.
If the gift to Operation Smile is a pecuniary or a specific gift; a fixed sum of money or specific item such as jewellery, furniture etc., please send a copy of the relevant clause in the will.
A pecuniary legacy to us should be paid within 12 months of the date of death. Statutory interest may be payable if the pecuniary legacy is not paid within a year.
If, however, there are insufficient funds in the estate, the executor should contact our Legacy Manager, Pippa Fawcett as soon as possible to explain the situation and provide a copy of the estate accounts, once available, for our file and accounting purposes.
If the gift to Operation Smile is a gift of residue; a share of the remainder of the estate once all other legacies and any debts or liabilities have been paid, please send:
- a copy of the will and any codicil(s)
- a copy of the schedule of assets and liabilities or a copy of the inheritance tax form (IHT 400)
- probate valuations of significant assets, such as property, shares or antiques
- a copy of the estate accounts once you are in a position to distribute the estate
- tax deduction certificate IR Form 185 Estate Income (if any)
We would appreciate regular updates from you especially if you need to sell items such as a house. For help or support regarding any of these please contact our Legacy Manager Pippa Fawcett on 020 3475 5126.
GET IN TOUCH
If you have any questions, please contact us by phone on: 020 3475 5126 or by email at: info@operationsmile.org.uk