Legacy & Bequests
Support gretl Association through a Legacy
If you would like to support our work in promoting free software and scientific research beyond your lifetime, you can remember the gretl Association e.V. in your will.
Legal Framework for Bequests to German Associations
Under German law (BGB § 1922 ff.), associations like gretl Association e.V. can become heirs. However, certain conditions must be met:
1. Registration in the Association Register The association must be registered in the Association Register, which gretl Association fulfills (registered under VR38268B at the Court Register (Amtsgericht) Berlin-Charlottenburg).
2. Testamentary Capacity You must be capable of making a will at the time of its execution (generally from age 16 onwards).
3. Form of Will The will must be either:
- Handwritten Will: Written entirely by hand, dated, and signed, OR
- Notarized Will: Certified before a notary public
Frequently Asked Questions about Bequests
Q: Can an association receive an inheritance? Yes, a registered association like gretl Association can become an heir if you specify this in your will.
Q: Are bequests tax-deductible? The gretl Association is recognized as a charitable association (tax exemption decision from the Berlin Tax Office for Corporate Bodies I, dated 20.10.2025). This may result in tax benefits for heirs – please inquire with your tax office or tax advisor about the specific conditions.
Q: How do I word a bequest to gretl Association in my will? Example wording for your will:
“I bequeath to gretl Association e.V., registered in the Association Register at the Court Register (Amtsgericht) Berlin-Charlottenburg under the number VR38268B, the amount of [sum in euros] / or: my estate / or: [specific assets].”
Q: Who should I contact for more information? Please contact us at: gretl_association@mailbox.org
We recommend consulting with a lawyer or notary public when drafting your will to ensure everything is correctly formulated.
Our Bylaws and Transparency
For questions about how bequests will be used in accordance with our charitable purposes, please refer to our Association Bylaws.
We are committed to using bequests responsibly and in accordance with our charitable statutory objectives: promotion of science, research, and education, as well as support for free software.