Board Chairman Makes Tax-Free Gift (You Can, Too!)

As two-time board chairman of Los Angeles Jewish Health, David Swartz gets a behind-the-scenes view of the organization. But when he looks at new facilities and programs, he sees beyond buildings and activities.

“It’s really emotional for me because my mother was a resident,” he says.

For David, the most gratifying part of being involved with LAJH is witnessing its impact.

“The families of our seniors don’t have to worry about the day-to-day needs of their loved ones,” he says. “They know they are being well taken care of. It’s a blessing.”

Operating such a large organization requires a huge budget. David has made gifts to the Home over the years, but he recently decided to use the IRA charitable rollover provision to increase his contributions.

A retired CPA, David knows that charitable tax laws can be confusing. But IRA rollover contributions are advantageous, easy and a great way to give in light of recent tax law changes.

“All you have to do is call the custodian of the funds and direct them to write a check to the charity,” he explains. “You don’t feel it because it’s not coming out of your own pocket.”

Plus, you don’t have to pay income taxes on the money.

“Why not take advantage of it?” he asks. “It’s a simple way to do a good deed.”

If you are 70½ years or older, you can now give any amount up to $100,000 annually from your IRA directly to a qualified charity, such as Los Angeles Jewish Health, without having to pay income taxes on the money. Contact Aaron Levinson at (818) 757-4416 or aaron.levinson@jha.org to learn more about this tax-smart way to make an impact.