Adjust ira distribution for QCD and take standard deduction, or itemize

[chips29]

I'm using TT Premiere for Windows.  I take an RMD from my ira and make QCD's from this account.   I think there is a problem with the TT QCD calculation.  I entered my QCD amount in the single box as instructed in the INCOME segment, then proceeded to itemize the individual contributions as instructed in the DEDUCTIONS segment.  TT concluded that I'm better off itemizing deductions rather than take the standard deduction.  When I reviewed my 1040, it appeared that the IRA distribution was adjusted for the QCD amount, then TT applied the itemized deductions from schedule  A INCLUDING THE CHARITABLE DEDUCTIONS THAT WERE CONTAINED IN THE QCD AMOUNT.   My hand calcs show that taking the standard deduction with the QCD adjustment is greater than taking the itemized deduction.  Would someone please check this out.  The tax law doesn't allow us to have it both ways!!  

[Mike9241]

Turbotax evidently did not make it clear that QCDs are not again reported as charitable donations on schedule A. remove them. 

[chips29]

Thanks Mike.  I was under the misunderstanding that if I entered all my donations and then entered the amount of QCD, TT would run the calcs and determine whether to take QCD + standard deduction  or itemize.  I guess the simple determinant is whether  all non-QCD deductions  amount to more or less  than the standard deduction,.  Thanks again for your help.  

[dmertz · Accepted solution]

I can't imagine a situation where it would ever makes sense to include a charitable contribution on Schedule A  instead of claiming a QCD when the contribution is eligible to be claimed as a QCD.  Doing so would never reduce your taxable income and would increase your AGI.  I can't think of any situation were it would be beneficial to unnecessarily raise your AGI.