If you're 70½ or older and have a traditional IRA, there's a tax-savvy giving strategy you should know about: the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). It’s one of the most powerful tools available to support the causes you care about—while reducing your taxable income.

In other words: QCDs let you give more, pay less, and make an immediate impact in your community.

 

What’s a QCD—and Why Should You Care?

A Qualified Charitable Distribution allows individuals aged 70½ or older to transfer up to $108,000 per year directly from their IRA to qualified charities, like the Truman Heartland Community Foundation or a fund you’ve established here. Each year, the maximum distribution amount is updated in proportion to inflation. 

Because the money goes directly to charity, it doesn’t count as taxable income—which can help reduce your adjusted gross income (AGI), potentially lowering your Medicare premiums and minimizing the tax on Social Security benefits.

Starting at age 73, the IRS requires you to take minimum distributions from your IRA each year (known as RMDs). If you don’t need those funds, a QCD can satisfy your RMD tax-free while supporting nonprofits that matter to you.

Starting at age 73, the IRS requires you to take minimum distributions from your IRA each year (known as RMDs). If you don’t need those funds, a QCD can satisfy your RMD tax-free while supporting nonprofits that matter to you.

Key Benefits of Giving Through a QCD

No need to itemize deductions
 QCDs offer tax advantages even if you take the standard deduction.

Lower your taxable income
 Reducing your AGI can have ripple effects, especially for retirees.

Meet your RMD while giving back
 A smart way to fulfill IRS requirements and support your favorite causes.

Immediate local impact
 QCDs fuel the work of nonprofits right now—when they need it most.

 

Who Should Consider a QCD?

  • You’re 70½ or older with a traditional IRA
  • You’re taking—or preparing to take—Required Minimum Distributions
  • You want to give back without increasing your tax burden
  • You support multiple nonprofits and want a simple, efficient giving strategy

If this sounds like you, a QCD could be a smart next step.

 

How Truman Heartland Can Help

Making a QCD is easier than you think—especially when you work with Truman Heartland. We can help you direct your gift to a nonprofit of your choice, or even set up a Designated Fund or Scholarship Fund to focus your giving where it matters most.

Please note: While QCDs cannot be made to donor-advised funds, there are many other types of funds at Truman Heartland that do qualify.

Our team is here to help you navigate your options and ensure your giving is both strategic and meaningful.

 

Now is the Time for Smart Giving

QCDs are a win-win—lower taxes for you, and stronger support for nonprofits in your community. As we all navigate a complex economic and political environment, being intentional about how and when you give can make a big difference.

If you’re ready to explore your options or have questions about how to get started, we’re here to help.

👉 Contact Cole Eason, VP of Advancement, at eason@thcf.org, to learn how to make a QCD part of your giving strategy.