Designating UW as a Beneficiary

Annual Giving is the only fundraising program of the university that reaches all alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends on a yearly basis to offer giving opportunities for direct support of UW's colleges, departments, and programs. UW Annual Giving focuses on acquiring regular yearly contributions, thus creating a vital and dependable source of private support for Wyoming's university.

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Leave a Legacy

How to Designate UW as Beneficiary

Naming UW as a beneficiary of a retirement plan, life insurance, or bank account is one of the easiest ways to leave a legacy at UW.

We recommend that you let us know that UW has been named as a beneficiary. That way, we can thank you and answer any questions you may have about the impact of your gift.

And please contact us with questions or comments. Our assistance is at no cost to you.

Questions?
  • Request a beneficiary designation form from your plan administrator, bank, or account custodian.
  • Name the "University of Wyoming Foundation" as the primary or contingent beneficiary on the form.
  • Options include 1) naming UW as the sole beneficiary, 2) designating a set dollar amount to UW, or 3) designating a percentage of your assets to UW. Also, please note if you would like your gift to benefit a specific college, program, scholarship, or existing fund.
  • The UW Foundation is the University of Wyoming’s nonprofit fundraising organization, and a gift designated to the UW Foundation is a gift to UW.
  • If needed, the University of Wyoming Foundation tax ID number (EIN) is 83-0201971.
  • Sign, date, and return form to your plan administrator, bank, or account custodian.
  • Note that your beneficiary designation takes precedence over your will or trust document. ‍

Benefits to You

Tax Benefits

You may be entitled to tax benefits, including income tax or estate deductions.

No Legal Costs

Designating UW as a beneficiary is straightforward. (Consult your financial advisor, as necessary.)

No Need to Update Your Will

By designating UW as a beneficiary, you don't have to update your will.

Make a Bigger Impact

You may be able to give a larger gift through your legacy than if you gave a gift right now.

You Have Flexibility

Assets You Can Designate

  • Retirement plans such as IRAs, 401(k)s, and 403(b)s
  • Term life insurance
  • Bank accounts
  • Investment accounts
  • Commercial annuity contracts

Contact Us

brett befus

Senior Associate Vice President
Development
(307) 766-4259
bbefus@uwyo.edu

Erica Connolly

Gift Planning Coordinator
Development
(307) 766-4594
eroybal@uwyo.edu