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Did you know there’s a way to support the IEEE Foundation and enjoy meaningful tax benefits even if you don’t itemize your deductions?

If you’re age 70½ or older, a special giving option called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), sometimes called an “IRA Charitable Rollover,” allows you to make a tax-wise gift directly from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA). It’s a powerful opportunity to create an immediate impact for IEEE’s mission to advance technology for the benefit of humanity.

Why a QCD Might Be Right for You

Typically, any withdrawal from your IRA counts as taxable income. But when you make a QCD, the amount you give is not included in your taxable income, which can offer you the same benefit as a charitable deduction, without needing to itemize on your tax return.

In fact, for many donors, a QCD can be even more advantageous than a standard charitable deduction. That’s because reducing your taxable income may also help you avoid higher taxes on your Social Security benefits and lower your Medicare premiums.

And if you’re required to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from your IRA, a QCD counts toward your RMD without increasing your taxable income.

QCD At a Glance

To make a QCD gift to the IEEE Foundation, here’s what you need to know:

• You must be 70½ or older at the time of your gift.
• Your gift must be sent directly from your  IRA to the IEEE Foundation.
• In 2025, you can give up to $108,000 through a QCD. (If your spouse has their own IRA, they can contribute up to $108,000 as well.)

IRA Beneficiary Designation

Whether or not you choose to make an IRA Charitable Rollover gift, you can still designate the IEEE Foundation as a beneficiary to receive IRA assets after your lifetime. Beneficiary designation qualifies you for membership as a Forever Generous donor in the IEEE Goldsmith Legacy League, our elite legacy giving donor recognition group.

Make a Difference Easily

Making a QCD is usually as simple as filling out a form on your IRA administrator’s website. Request a direct transfer to the IEEE Foundation, and your gift will start working immediately to support breakthrough innovation, education, and the next generation of engineers and technologists. Need a sample letter to get started? Visit: https://www.ieeefoundation.org/ways-to-give/ira-charitable-rollover/

If you’re thinking about making a QCD or just want to explore your options, we’d be happy to help. Contact Danny DeLiberato, Development Officer, by telephone at +1 732.562.5446 or by e-mail at d.deliberato@ieee.org. Together, we can ensure that your gift has the greatest impact and works best for your financial goals.

This article is intended to provide general gift-planning information. The IEEE Foundation is not qualified to provide specific legal, tax, or investment advice, and this publication should not be looked to or relied upon as a source for such advice. Consult with your own legal and financial advisors before making any gift.