What is a QCD? Qualified Charitable Distributions Explained (2025 Guide)

When planning for retirement, many people focus on growing their savings. But did you know that your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can also be a powerful tool for charitable giving? Enter Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)—a strategic way to donate to causes you care about while enjoying significant tax benefits.

For those age 70½ or older, QCDs offer a way to support charitable organizations directly from an IRA without increasing taxable income. Whether you’re looking to reduce your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), manage your tax burden, or simply make a meaningful impact, QCDs provide an incredible opportunity.

In this installment of Armbruster Capital Management’s Investing 101 series, we’ll break down everything you need to know about QCDs—eligibility, contribution limits, tax advantages, and how to ensure your donation meets IRS requirements.

Watch the full video here and subscribe to Armbruster Capital’s YouTube channel for more expert insights on smart financial strategies!

For more on this series, check out our video Required Minimum Distributions Explained (2025 Guide).