It’s never too early to plan for important charitable considerations ahead of the last day of December.
IRA Distribution
● If you are 59½ or older, you can take a distribution from your IRA and then make a gift to a charity without penalty. If you itemize your deductions, you can take a charitable deduction for the amount.
● If you are 70½ or older, you can give any amount up to $100,000 from your IRA directly. You will not pay income taxes on the transfer. If you are 72 or older, you can use this transfer to satisfy your required minimum distribution.
To do: The charity must receive your gift by Dec. 31 for your donation to qualify this year.
Appreciated Stock
You may enjoy two tax benefits with a gift of appreciated stock: Avoid paying taxes on the
appreciated value and qualify for an income tax charitable deduction based on today’s market
value when you itemize.
To do: Complete all transfers by Dec. 31. This includes electronic transfer, hand-delivery of the
securities or mailed stock and stock power (mailed separately for security).
Donor Advised Fund
Contribute to a donor advised fund and enjoy a tax savings on that amount when you itemize.
To do: Complete the contribution by Dec. 31. You do not have to designate the funds this
calendar year to receive the tax benefits.
Check these off your to-do list to end the year on an organized note.
● Ensure that your will or trust is up to date and includes appropriate designations and charitable intentions.
● Assess your retirement plan beneficiaries to ensure you’ve considered your loved ones and favorite causes.
● If you have a life insurance policy that is no longer a significant piece of your estate plan, consider making Marshall Foundation for Community Health the beneficiary.
Marshall Foundation for Community Health is here to help ensure you receive the maximum tax benefit for your donation. For free resources, contact Jamie Johnson, Executive Director, at 530-642-9984, or e-mail info@marshallfound.org.