Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)

Use Your IRA to Make a Difference

If you are age 70½ or older, you may be able to make a gift directly from your IRA to United Way of the Blue Mountains. This type of gift is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution, or QCD.

A QCD is a simple way to support your community while potentially reducing your taxable income.

Why Consider a QCD?

Once you reach a certain age, the government may require you to withdraw money from your IRA each year. This is called a Required Minimum Distribution, or RMD.

If you do not need all of that money for living expenses, you can give some or all of it directly to United Way of the Blue Mountains.

A qualifying gift:

  • Goes directly from your IRA to United Way
  • Can count toward your required annual withdrawal
  • Is generally not included in your taxable income
  • Supports people and families throughout the Blue Mountain region

For example, if you are required to withdraw $10,000 and give $6,000 directly to United Way through a QCD, that $6,000 may count toward your required withdrawal. You would still need to withdraw or give the remaining $4,000.

Who Can Make a QCD?

You may be eligible if:

  • You are age 70½ or older
  • You have an eligible IRA
  • The money is sent directly from your IRA to United Way

Gifts made directly from a 401(k) or 403(b) generally do not qualify. Your financial advisor or IRA administrator can help determine whether your account is eligible.

How to Make Your Gift

  1. Contact the company that manages your IRA.
  2. Ask to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution to United Way of the Blue Mountains.
  3. Contact us if you need our mailing address, tax identification number, or other information.
  4. Keep a record of your gift and let your tax professional know you made a QCD.

Make Your Required Withdrawal Matter

Your IRA can do more than provide retirement income. It can help create opportunities for young people, strengthen local families, improve health and well-being, and build more resilient communities across the Blue Mountain region.

Contact Us About IRA Giving

This information is for general educational purposes and is not tax or legal advice. Please speak with your IRA administrator, financial advisor, or tax professional about your individual situation.