Friends in the United States:

President Obama signed legislation extending the charitable IRA rollover for 2010 and 2011. This allows individuals 70½ or older to make tax-free gifts of up to $100,000 now to qualified charitable organizations like Adventist World Radio using funds transferred directly from their IRAs. If you act by Jan. 31, 2011, you can make a gift effective in 2010—then, if you wish, you can make a second contribution through Dec. 31, 2011.

Your Benefits

• If you don't need the annual amount you're required to take from your IRA when you turn 70½, you can transfer your upcoming required minimum distribution to support your favorite cause and avoid the income tax on these funds.
• You'll make an immediate impact on our organization, allowing you to witness the benefits of your generosity.

An Example of How It Works

Linda, aged 73, has $200,000 in an IRA. Linda made a pledge to give us $20,000. She had the choice of giving cash or other assets to fulfill the pledge, but now Linda has another option to fund her gift.

If Linda transfers $20,000 from her IRA on or before Dec. 31, 2011, she avoids paying income tax on $20,000. She will not, however, be able to use it as a charitable deduction—as it is a pure wash. The renewed charitable IRA rollover gives her an easy and convenient way to benefit us without tax complications.

We Can Help

Don't let this tax-wise opportunity to give today pass you by. If you have questions, need more information or would like to make a gift, please contact Jean Kellner at 301-680-6333 or email jean@awr.org. Your tax or estate planning attorney will also be a great help to you.