Give From Your IRA – Support Students, Save on Taxes

A Simple Gift That Makes a Lasting Impact

If you're 70½ or older, you have a unique opportunity to support Catholic students at ASU while potentially reducing your tax burden. It's called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), and it's easier than you might think.

Many friends of ASU Catholic are discovering that giving directly from their IRA is one of the most tax-smart ways to make a difference in the lives of students seeking Christ on campus.

What Is an IRA QCD Gift?

A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows you to transfer up to $108,000 per year (2026 limits) directly from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to ASU Catholic, tax-free.

Here's what makes it special:

The gift counts toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) but isn't added to your taxable income. This means you can fulfill your RMD obligation while supporting our campus ministry mission without increasing your tax bill.

Think of it as turning a tax requirement into a faith investment.

Who Can Make a QCD Gift?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are 70½ years old or older (or will be this year)
  • Have a traditional IRA
  • Want to support ASU Catholic's mission to serve students
  • Are looking for tax-smart ways to give

That's it. If you meet these simple criteria, you can make a QCD gift to support Catholic campus ministry at ASU.

Why Give Through an IRA QCD?

  1. It Satisfies Your Required Minimum Distribution Your gift counts directly toward your RMD, so you meet IRS requirements while making a meaningful impact.
  2. It Reduces Your Taxable Income Unlike a regular withdrawal, a QCD isn't reported as income, which may help lower your overall tax burden and potentially reduce taxes on Social Security benefits.
  3. It's Simple and Direct Your IRA custodian sends the funds directly to ASU Catholic. No complicated paperwork, no writing checks from your personal account.
  4. It Makes a Powerful Impact Your gift directly funds campus ministry at ASU, supporting student retreats, fellowship, sacramental life, and faith formation that shapes the next generation of Catholic leaders.
  5. You Don't Need to Itemize Even if you take the standard deduction, you still receive the tax benefit of a QCD.

How Your Gift Changes Lives

When you give through an IRA QCD, you're investing in:

  • Daily Mass and the sacraments for students navigating college life
  • Retreats and small groups where authentic friendships and faith are formed
  • Service opportunities that help students live their faith in action
  • A welcoming home where students know they belong in the Catholic Church

Your generosity ensures that Catholic students at ASU have a spiritual home, a supportive community, and the resources they need to grow in faith during these transformative years.

How to Make Your IRA QCD Gift

Making your gift is simpler than you might expect. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Contact Your IRA Custodian

Reach out to the financial institution that manages your IRA (such as Fidelity, Vanguard, Schwab, etc.) and let them know you'd like to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution.

Step 2: Provide ASU Catholic's Information

Give your custodian our legal name and mailing address for the transfer:

  • Legal Name: All Saints Roman Catholic Newman Center Tempe
  • Address: 230 E. University Drive, Tempe, AZ 85281
  • Tax ID: 30-0514129

Step 3: Specify Your Gift Amount

Tell your custodian how much you'd like to transfer to ASU Catholic (up to $108,000 for 2026).

Step 4: Request Direct Transfer

Make sure the funds are sent directly from your IRA to ASU Catholic. This is essential for the gift to qualify as a QCD.

Step 5: Notify Us

Let us know your gift is coming so we can properly thank you and ensure it's directed according to your wishes. Contact Chris Tawney at chris.tawney@asucatholic.org or (480) 967-7823.

Important: The check must be made payable to ASU Catholic and come directly from your IRA custodian. You should not receive the distribution personally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I don't think I have enough in my IRA to make a meaningful gift. Can I still participate?

A: Absolutely! Every gift matters, regardless of size. Whether it's $500 or $10,000, your QCD gift directly supports students and campus ministry. Many donors are surprised to find they can give more than they thought because the tax savings make it more affordable than a gift from their checking account.

Q: Can I make a QCD gift if I'm already taking my RMD?

A: Yes! You can make a QCD at any time during the year. If you've already taken part of your RMD, a QCD can still count toward the remaining amount. Many donors work with their advisors to make their QCD early in the year before taking other distributions.

Q: Will I receive a tax deduction for my QCD gift?

A: You won't receive a charitable deduction because the distribution isn't counted as taxable income in the first place, which is better! You get the tax benefit automatically without needing to itemize deductions.

Q: This sounds complicated. Is it really as simple as you say?

A: Yes! Tens of thousands of donors across the country make QCD gifts every year to their parish and other non-profits. Your IRA custodian handles these requests regularly, most can complete the process with a simple phone call or online form. We're also here to help guide you through any questions.

Q: Can I designate my gift to a specific program or purpose?

A: Yes! When you make your gift, simply let us know if you'd like it directed to a particular area of campus ministry. We'll honor your wishes and keep you updated on the impact you're making.

Ready to Make a Difference?

You don't need a large fortune to leave a lasting legacy. Your IRA gift, whatever the size, helps Catholic students encounter Christ, build community, and grow in faith during their college years at ASU.

Take the first step today:

Contact your IRA custodian to begin your QCD gift or reach out to us with questions. We're here to help make the process as easy as possible.

Questions? We're Here to Help

Contact Chris Tawney, Development Director
Email: chris.tawney@asucatholic.org
Phone: (480) 967-7823

Please consult with your tax and financial advisors to determine how an IRA QCD gift fits your personal situation. ASU Catholic does not provide tax or legal advice.