Charitable Giving Tax Changes for 2024

Thank you for your support of Lehigh University. At the start of this new year, we’d like to remind you that we welcome your questions. If you are considering making a gift—perhaps taking advantage of one of the opportunities presented below—please contact us.

While most of your giving options have not changed, there are a few key points to note.

A gift from your IRA remains a great opportunity

If you are 70½ or older, you can make a gift from your IRA or name Lehigh University as a beneficiary. Each taxpayer can give up to $105,000 from their IRA, annually.

Lehigh University will benefit from your gift today; you can see your generosity in real time.
You pay no income taxes on the gift. The transfer generates neither taxable income nor a tax deduction, so you benefit even if you do not itemize your deductions.
Since the gift doesn’t count as income, it can reduce your annual income level, which could lower your income taxes.

Note that under the Secure Act 2.0, the age at which you are required to make minimum distributions (RMD) was raised to age 73 for individuals born between 1951 and 1959, and age 75 for those born in 1960 or later.

QCD – Life Income Gift

CAA 2023 allows for a one-time distribution to create a life income gift, most commonly a charitable gift annuity (CGA), and charitable remainder unitrusts (CRT) or annuity trusts. This new type of QCD is a one-time maximum transfer of $53,000 to a qualified CRT, or in exchange with a charity for a CGA.

*Important terms and conditions apply. Please contact our office or your financial advisor.

This type of gift will reduce the value of your IRA, therefore reducing your future RMDs (as they will be based on the lower value). Also, a CGA provides a constant guaranteed lifetime stream of revenue. Using a distribution from your IRA to create an annuity is a savvy way to diversify your holdings and lock in a great return.

As always, we recommend that you consult a qualified advisor before making a new gift commitment.