More smart ways to give

Making a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) from your individual retirement account (IRA) is a smart way to make a meaningful difference for Tree Pittsburgh’s work restoring and protecting the urban forest through tree planting and care, education, advocacy, and land conservation. 

Beginning at age 73, retirement account holders must make annual withdrawals from their IRAs, known as required minimum distributions (RMDs). Those assets are then considered income and are taxable. A QCD from your IRA (up to $108,000 per person in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation) can help you satisfy your RMD, avoid increased taxes, and support your philanthropic priorities. While an RMD is not yet required, you may make QCDs starting at age 70 ½. 

Download sample IRA QCD distribution letters that can be used in making your gift to Tree Pittsburgh here. Tree Pittsburgh’s EIN is 25-1778057.

If you’re at least 59½ years old, you can take a distribution from your IRA without penalty and use it to make a gift to Tree Pittsburgh. While you are subject to income tax on the withdrawal, if you itemize your deductions, you may be able to take a charitable tax deduction for your gift.

No matter how old you are, you can designate Tree Pittsburgh as the beneficiary of all or a percentage of your IRA, which will pass to us tax-free after your lifetime. It’s an easy way to make a significant impact. Learn more here.