Sample Codicil

When it’s time to update your will, you don’t have to start from scratch.

You can use a codicil (an addition or supplement) that explains or modifies your existing will. Below is sample codicil language you can share with your estate attorney.

For an unrestricted gift  that allows the Archdiocese of Chicago to determine how to use the funds based on the most pressing needs:

I give [insert specific dollar amount or percentage of net or residuary] to The Catholic Bishop of Chicago, Tax ID #36-2170826, a corporation sole located in Chicago, Illinois, to be used for the general charitable, religious, and educational purposes of the Archdiocese of Chicago.”

To designate your gift for a particular Parish, School, or Ministry:

I give [insert specific dollar amount, or percentage of net or residuary] to The Catholic Bishop of Chicago, Tax ID #36-2170826, a corporation sole located in Chicago, Illinois, to be used for the benefit of [insert name of parish, school, or ministry] located in [insert city], Illinois. However, if [insert name of parish, school, or ministry] ceases to exist in its current form, then to the new [parish or parishes/ school/ ministry] erected in its stead.”

In all other respects I ratify and confirm all of the provision of my said last Will and Testament dated on the ________ day of _________, 20___.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I sign, publish and declare this instrument to be a Codicil to my last Will and Testament in the presence of the persons witnessing said Codicil at my request this _____ day of _______, 20___.

_____________________ residing at _____________________
(name)

Witnesses

_____________________ residing at _____________________
(name)

_____________________ residing at _____________________
(name)

The codicil, to be valid, must be signed in the presence of witnesses, and the original placed with your other valuable papers. A copy can go to your lawyer and a copy to the Archdiocese of Chicago.

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