Make Your RMD Work for You and WHC 

For generations, Washington Hebrew Congregation has been the place where we celebrate milestones, share in each other’s joys and sorrows, and find strength in our community. Many of our members choose to give back in a way that reflects their deep connection to WHC — by using their retirement savings to support the congregation they love. 

What’s an RMD? 

Once you turn 73, the IRS requires you to take money out of your IRA each year. These withdrawals are called Required Minimum Distributions (RMD), and they count as taxable income. 

But here’s the good news: if you are 70½ or older, you can use those retirement funds to give directly to WHC through what’s called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). This is one of the easiest and most tax-smart ways to give. 

Why consider a QCD? 

When you make a QCD: 

• The amount you give is excluded from your taxable income, which may lower your tax bill. 

• Your gift can count toward your RMD once you reach 73. 

• It’s simple — you just ask your IRA administrator to send the funds directly to WHC. 

• You can give up to $108,000 in 2025 (per person, per year). 

Your gift makes an immediate impact 

A QCD is more than a smart financial move, it’s a way to keep WHC strong for you, your family, and generations to come. You can use your IRA gift to cover your membership renewal, support the Lewis S. Wiener Annual Fund, or direct it to the area of WHC life that matters most to you.  

How to get started

Making a QCD is straightforward. 

1. Call your IRA administrator. 

2. Ask them to send your distribution directly to Washington Hebrew Congregation. 

3. Let us know how you’d like your gift used at WHC (membership, Lewis S. Wiener Annual Fund, etc.) 

Remember: you must make your contribution before December 31 for it to count toward that year’s required distribution and tax obligation. 

That’s it. No complicated paperwork, just a meaningful way to meet your IRS requirement while sustaining your WHC community. 

To learn more, please contact Alexis Channin, Director of Development, at (202) 895-6312 or achannin@whctemple.org.  

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. Please consult your professional advisor for guidance on how any gift may affect your individual tax situation.

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