The Power of QCD's

I'm excited to share a giving opportunity that could allow you to make an even greater impact while enjoying significant tax benefits: Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).

A QCD is a simple yet powerful way to support KML directly from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Think of it as redirecting funds that would typically be taxed to instead support Christian education at KML – a true “win-win” that keeps that money out of your taxable income.

There are many benefits to utilizing QCD’s, especially if you're 73 or older and must take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Your QCD gift counts toward your RMD requirement while keeping that money out of your adjusted gross income. This can help reduce your tax burden and may even keep you in a lower tax bracket. Plus, unlike regular charitable deductions, you don't need to itemize to receive this tax benefit.

QCD Essentials

• Eligibility: Age 70½ or older

• 2024 Maximum: Up to $105,000 per person

• Deadline: December 31, 2024

• Key Benefit: Reduces taxable income while supporting KML

• RMD Note: Counts toward Required Minimum Distribution if you're 73+

• Important: Must transfer directly from IRA to charity

Let me share a simple example: Mary, a 73-year-old KML supporter, needs to take a $20,000 RMD this year. Instead of taking it as income and then writing a check, she directs the full $20,000 from her IRA directly to the KML Foundation as a QCD. This completely satisfies her RMD requirement while keeping all $20,000 out of her taxable income. In her 24% tax bracket, this saves her $4,800 in federal taxes while supporting KML's mission. That's nearly $5,000 more going to ministry instead of taxes!

Your timing couldn't be better to make a significant impact at KML. As we approach Giving Tuesday on Tuesday, December 3rd, there's tremendous excitement around our Fieldhouse Expansion Project. Your QCD gift can help us create enhanced facilities that will serve our students and community for generations to come. This project represents a pivotal moment in KML's history, and your support through a QCD can help make it a reality.

How to Make Your QCD to KML:

1. Contact Your IRA Custodian

   • Call or email the financial institution that holds your IRA

   • Let them know you want to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution

   • Request their specific QCD form or process

2. Gather KML's Required Information

   • Official Name: Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School Foundation

   • Tax ID Number: 46-0506261

   • Mailing Address: 3399 Division Rd. Jackson, WI 53037 (Attn: Dylan Rusch)

   • Phone: 262-677-4051 x4093

3. Complete the QCD Request

   • Fill out your custodian's required forms

   • Specify the amount you wish to distribute

4. Important Reminders

   • Funds MUST be transferred directly from your IRA to KML

   • Do NOT withdraw the money yourself first

   • Start early - processing can take several weeks

   • Deadline for 2024 tax benefits: December 31, 2024

Ready to make a lasting impact while enjoying tax benefits? I'm here to help you through every step of the process. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me directly:

Dylan Rusch, Gift Planning OfficerEmail: dylanrusch@kmlhs.org