What Is Charitable Giving From an IRA?
Charitable giving from an IRA lets individuals aged 70½ or older donate directly to a qualified nonprofit using a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). These tax-free donations count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) but are excluded from your taxable income.
What Is a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)?
A QCD is a direct transfer of funds from your IRA custodian to a qualified charity. You can give up to $100,000 per year this way if you're eligible. QCDs reduce your taxable income, unlike regular withdrawals.
Who Can Make a QCD?
To use a Qualified Charitable Distribution:
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You must be 70½ or older
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You must have a traditional IRA
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The charity must be IRS-qualified (like YAMM)
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The gift must go directly from your IRA to the nonprofit
How to Set Up a Charitable IRA Gift
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Contact your IRA custodian. Ask for their QCD request form.
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Fill out the form. Include your chosen nonprofit’s legal name and mailing address.
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Send the check directly. Your custodian sends funds to the charity—not to you.
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Request a receipt. Your nonprofit should send you an acknowledgment letter.
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Report it at tax time. Let your tax preparer know it was a QCD.
Benefits of Giving From Your IRA
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Avoid income tax on the distribution
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Meet your RMD without increasing your income
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Lower Medicare premium thresholds
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Simple to set up
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No itemizing required
Common Questions About IA Charitable Giving
Common Questions About IRA Charitable Giving
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Q: Can I give to any charity?
A: No. The organization must be a 501(c)(3) public charity. Donor-advised funds and private foundations don’t qualify.
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Q: How do I track the donation?
A: Your IRA provider will show the transfer on your 1099-R, and your nonprofit will issue a receipt.
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Q: What happens if I withdraw the funds myself?
A: You’ll be taxed. The funds must go directly from your IRA to the charity to count as a QCD.
Get Started with YAMM
If you’re ready to make a charitable gift from your IRA, YAMM is a qualified 501(c)(3) ready to help. Contact us at contact@kgyamm.org or visit our donation page. We’ll work with your financial advisor to make the process smooth and impactful.