It depends. A QCD (Qualified Charitable Distribution) usually produces a better tax outcome — especially if:
- You use the standard deduction (don’t itemize deductions)
- You’re subject to RMDs
- You want to keep your AGI lower
But there are situations where donating appreciated stock. If you itemize and donate stock you held over 1 year, you can deduct the fair market value (FMV) and avoid capital gains tax. But it doesn't reduce your RMD.
QCD
Capital Gains
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