An IRA offers a tax-advantaged way to save money over the years so that you still have an income once you reach retirement. IRS rules mandate that individuals must start withdrawing from their traditional IRAs once they reach the age of 72 (70½ if you attained that age before January 1, 2020). Failure to take the required minimum distribution may result in penalties. Donating your IRA (Individual Retirement Account) distributions to a charity can be a tax-efficient way to support a charitable cause. Here’s how you can do it:
- Check eligibility: First, make sure that you are eligible to donate your IRA distributions to a charity. Currently, only individuals who are 70 ½ years of age or older can make qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) from their IRA. QCDs are also limited to traditional IRAs, not Roth IRAs or employer-sponsored retirement plans such as 401(k)s.
- Choose a qualifying charity: Ensure that the charity you want to donate to is a qualified charitable organization eligible to receive tax-deductible donations. This typically includes organizations such as public charities, religious organizations, educational institutions, and certain other types of nonprofits.
- Contact your IRA custodian: Reach out to the custodian of your IRA (i.e., the financial institution or entity that manages your IRA) and let them know of your intention to make a QCD. They will likely have specific procedures and forms for you to complete to initiate the donation. It’s important to follow their instructions carefully to ensure the donation is properly executed.
- Specify the QCD: When making a QCD, be sure to specify that it is a qualified charitable distribution to ensure it is treated as such for tax purposes. Generally, the distribution must be made directly from your IRA to the qualifying charity to qualify for tax benefits. The maximum amount that can be donated as a QCD is $100,000 per year.
- Be aware of tax benefits: One of the main benefits of making a QCD is that it can be excluded from your taxable income, potentially lowering your overall tax liability. However, it’s important to note that you won’t be able to claim a charitable tax deduction for the QCD since it’s already excluded from your income. Consult with a tax professional to understand the specific tax implications of making a QCD based on your individual circumstances.
- Keep records: It’s essential to maintain accurate records of your QCD transactions, including documentation of the distribution from your IRA to the charity, and any acknowledgments or receipts from the charity for your donation. These records will be important for tax purposes and to substantiate your charitable contribution.
- Consult with a professional: As tax laws and regulations can be complex and subject to change, it’s always advisable to consult with a qualified tax professional or financial advisor before making any decisions regarding charitable donations from your IRA. They can provide you with personalized guidance based on your individual financial situation and help you navigate the process smoothly.
Donating your IRA distributions to a charity can be a meaningful way to support a cause you care about while potentially gaining tax benefits. Be sure to follow the rules and guidelines for qualified charitable distributions, and consult with a professional to ensure that you are maximizing the benefits of your donation.