This is called a qualified charitable distribution. This gives you the benefit of lowering your adjusted gross income to reduce your federal taxes even if you don't itemize.  And if you are currently taking required minimum distributions it gets even better!   In that situation the qualified charitable distribution has a rare double benefit since it is both tax-free to you and also counts towards your RMD.

It is easy to do although there are some very specific IRS requirements in order for it to be "qualified".  If you are interested in learning more or how to do this let Meghan know or reach out directly to Tom Hickey (tc_hickey2@yahoo.com).