Make a Tax-Smart Gift Through Your IRA
If you’re looking for a tax-efficient way to support physical therapy research, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) may be an excellent option. This giving strategy allows individuals 70½ or older to make a gift directly from their IRA to a qualified charity like the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research without including the distribution in taxable income. In 2026, donors may contribute up to $111,000 annually through a QCD.
For Colleen Kigin, PT, DPT, MS, MPA, FAPTA, this giving method is both practical and purposeful:
“Never in the history of our profession is the need to foster and support research more critical than now. Many of us have numerous foundations we support, and we must make hard choices. I now use my IRA mandatory distribution as a method to contribute more, based on my yearly evaluation of where my donations can result in the largest effect or outcome. The Foundation rises to the top each year. If we cannot support our basis of care through research, we will cease to be a player. I am proud to be a small part of supporting the Foundation.”
By making a direct transfer from your IRA, you can support physical therapy research and evidence-based care while potentially reducing your taxable income. If you are subject to a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), a QCD can satisfy all or part of that requirement.
How It Works:
- You must be at least age 70½ to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD).
- The gift must be transferred directly from your IRA to the Foundation.
- In 2026, eligible donors may contribute up to $111,000 through a QCD without including the distribution in taxable income.
It’s important to consider your tax situation before deciding whether to make a charitable contribution from your IRA. Be sure to share this gift plan with your financial or tax advisor.
To learn more about your giving options, contact the Foundation’s CEO, Barbara Malm, at barbaramalm@foundation4pt.org.
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