For many supporters of Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, giving is about creating a better future—one where Alzheimer’s disease no longer steals memories, independence, and precious time with loved ones.
What some donors don’t realize is that they may be able to make an even greater impact while receiving valuable tax benefits by using their Individual Retirement Account (IRA) as a vehicle for charitable giving.
Starting at age 73, the IRS requires that individuals with an IRA take annual withdrawals known as Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). A failure to do so could result in costly penalties.
There are a variety of reasons why retirement-aged individuals may not want to take an RMD. One reason is that they may have other sources of income that cover their expenses, and taking an RMD will push them into a higher tax bracket, which can affect Social Security payments or Medicare benefits.
Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), also known as charitable IRA rollovers, are a tax-smart strategy that can help individuals maximize their charitable impact while reducing taxes.
Even before an individual must withdraw RMDs, they are eligible to make a QCD gift. Starting at age 70½, a donor can make a tax-free donation of up to $111,000 annually in 2026 from their IRA to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. Because the contribution goes directly to CureAlz, it is not taxable income, even if the donor does not itemize deductions.
Once an individual reaches age 73, and is required to take withdrawals, the QCD can count toward some or all of the RMD.
Every gift to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund helps scientists pursue promising discoveries that will bring us closer to effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
As another planned giving option, consider including Cure Alzheimer’s Fund as a beneficiary of your IRA or setting up a one-time charitable gift annuity.
If you’d like to learn more about making a gift through your IRA, we’re here to help. Contact us at [email protected] for more information or to request a personalized charitable gift annuity illustration.
Cure Alzheimer’s Fund cannot provide tax or legal advice. We encourage you to consult your tax and financial advisors when considering a qualified charitable distribution or other planned gift.
