Tax-Smart Gift Rewards Heidelberg for Staying True to Mission

Jon and Barb (Beck) Steingass, both Class of ’67, give to Heidelberg not only in gratitude for the part the university played in enriching their lives, but also because Heidelberg has remained true to its core purpose of providing young people with the opportunity to develop into rational, caring and productive members of society.

“Practically speaking, we have in recent years moved to giving directly from our IRAs because that assures us of tax benefits for which we might not otherwise qualify,” the couple says.

Charitable gifts from IRAs produce an “above-the-line” reduction in taxable income, which in turn produces a tax benefit not dependent on itemizing deductions. “We’re grateful that we have the legal right to give this way,” Jon and Barb agree. “And we’re grateful to Heidelberg for making such good use of the money we give.”