Top 3 Reasons for Charitable Gifts of IRA - Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD)*
1. The distribution can fulfill part or all of the required minimum distribution for those over 70 1/2 without increasing taxable income, which can impact taxes on social security income and Medicare premiums.
2. The taxes saved can make the distribution much more tax efficient than donating directly to a charity. This will be particularly relevant with the changes in the standard deduction which will lead to fewer people itemizing deductions.
3. For individuals with large amounts in both IRA and taxable investment accounts who have been both charitable and individual beneficiaries, distributing out of the IRA as part of an estate settlement can leave a much higher after after-tax inheritance for family members.