Bonus Points: If your age 73 or older, making a QCD may satisfy all or part of your required minimum distribution (RMD) for the year.
And yes, we think that’s something worth rolling over for!
What’s a QCD?
A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows you to transfer money directly from your IRA to a qualified charity. For 2026, you can exclude up to $111,000 for single ($222,000 for married). in QCDs from taxable income, provided you meet the IRS requirements. Even better, a qualifying QCD can count toward your Required Minimum Distribution for the year. If you don’t need all of your IRA distribution for your living expenses, a QCD can be a wonderful way to turn money you would otherwise have to take out of your retirement account into something that makes a real difference.
Your RMD Can Help a Pet Stay by Their Person’s Side
At Feeding Pets of the Homeless, we believe that no one should have to choose between caring for their beloved pet and meeting their own basic needs. For people experiencing homelessness, a pet may be their closest—and sometimes only—companion. Your generosity helps provide veterinary care, emergency medical assistance, pet food, and other essential support so that pets can stay healthy and remain with the people who love them. When you direct a qualifying QCD to Feeding Pets of the Homeless, your retirement dollars can help provide a lifeline to both a pet and their person. That’s a pretty great rollover!
Why Consider a QCD?
A qualifying QCD may allow you to:
- Satisfy all or part of your RMD requirement.
- Keep the qualifying distribution out of your taxable income.
- Support a charitable organization you care about.
- Put retirement dollars to work helping pets and people in need.
And there’s something especially rewarding about knowing that money from your retirement savings can help provide a meal, veterinary treatment, or lifesaving care for a pet whose person is experiencing homelessness.
A Few Important Rules
As with any tax-related decision, there are rules to follow. Generally:
- You must be at least 70½ years old when the distribution is made.
- The distribution must generally be transferred directly from your IRA custodian to an eligible charitable organization.
- For 2026, the annual QCD exclusion limit is $111,000 for single ($222,000 for married).
- A qualifying QCD can count toward your RMD for the year.
Because everyone’s financial and tax situation is different, please consult your tax professional or financial advisor before making a QCD.
Ready to Roll?
If you’re taking an RMD this year and don’t need all of the money for your own expenses, consider giving a portion directly to Feeding Pets of the Homeless.
Your rollover could help put food in a pet’s bowl, provide desperately needed veterinary care, and help keep a beloved companion by the side of someone experiencing homelessness.
You take care of your RMD. We’ll help take care of the pets.
Now who says you can’t teach an old(er) dog new tricks! 🐶❤️
If you are anyone you know is interested in a RMD/QCD, I’d be delighted to speak with you.
Ginny Davis, VP Philanthropy and Business Development 760-908-8202
Please consult your tax or financial advisor to determine whether a Qualified Charitable Distribution is appropriate for your individual circumstances and to ensure that your gift meets all applicable IRS requirements.
Featured pup is the golden pup of Ginny Davis. 🙂






