Those wishing to leave legacies are strongly advised to talk the matter over with a solicitor when drawing up a will, but as an example of possible wording for a legacy to the Dean and Chapter it might include words such as:
For a specific sums (a Pecuniary Legacy):
"I bequeath to the Dean and Chapter of Westminster, The Chapter Office, 20 Dean’s Yard, London, SW1P 3PA the sum of £_______ (state in words as well), to be used by the said Dean and Chapter at its absolute discretion."
For a specific sums expressing wish as to how money to be spent:
"I bequeath to the Dean and Chapter of Westminster, The Chapter Office, 20 Dean’s Yard, London, SW1P 3PA the sum of £_______ (state in words as well), and without seeking to impose any binding trust or legal obligations on or in any way to impose any direction or limitation on their general powers and discretions I express the wish that they should apply the money for the maintenance of (Westminster Abbey’s Choral/tradition/the fabric/Choir School/Library)."
For a gift of residue:
"I give the whole (or a share, for example one half, one third) of the residue of my estate to the Dean and Chapter of Westminster to be used by the said Dean and Chapter at its absolute discretion."
Those who leave legacies in this way will, if they wish, have their names recorded in a memorial book that will be maintained in the historic Abbey library.