Help the PCT today through your IRA — tax free

The Pacific Crest Trail in the North Cascades. Photo by David Xiao.

A tax-saving way to help the trail

If you are 70-½ years or older, you can take advantage of a simple way to benefit the PCTA and receive tax benefits in return. You can give up to $100,000 from your IRA directly to a qualified charity such as ours without having to pay income tax on the money.

This law no longer has an expiration date so you are free to make annual gifts to our organization this year and well into the future.

Why consider this gift?

  • You pay no income taxes on the gift. The transfer generates neither taxable income nor a tax deduction, so you benefit even if you do not itemize your deductions.
  • Your gift will be used today, allowing you to see the difference your donation is making.
  • If you have not yet taken your required minimum distribution for the year, your IRA charitable rollover gift can satisfy all or part of that requirement. The PCTA must receive your qualified charitable distribution by Dec. 31, 2018 for your donation to qualify for federal tax-free status in 2018.

If you plan to take advantage of this option, you need to act quickly. Be sure to talk with your tax advisor to find out if this is the right giving vehicle for you.

Information you may need

For information on how to make your gift to the PCTA, please contact Mark Waters at (916) 285-1902 or [email protected].

  • The PCTA’s Tax ID# is 33-0051202
  • The PCTA’s address is:  1331 Garden Highway, Sacramento, CA 95833

Author: Mark Waters

As the Pacific Crest Trail Association’s Associate Director of Philanthropy, Mark helps develop compelling opportunities for donors to support the PCTA and make the experience of giving satisfying and rewarding. He enjoys spending his free time playing and exploring with his sons.