Did you turn 73 in 2025?

“To me there is probably nothing more important for us to do than to combat environmental degradation and climate change.  In order to improve the environment, it takes good land managers and that is what HMI is doing.  They’re out training good people who want to be good land stewards, who want to learn how to be able to do that.  I think there’s no more worthwhile place to put your philanthropic money than in the practice of Holistic Management.”  -Sallie Calhoun, California, USA

Did you turn 73 in 2025? If you did, you have until April 1, 2026 to meet your RMD (required minimum distribution) requirements. As this article from the PG Calc website notes, timing is everything for RMDs.

HMI is grateful for all our donors, including those who are now using this requirement to support HMI's work around the globe. Many of our donors have shared how passionate they are about HMI's work because they recognize the need for improved and practical land management training and support for land stewards to address the many environmental issues we are facing. Because HMI is working on the ground with our educators and a large network of land stewards, we are part of a community transforming the lives and livelihoods of thousands of people each year across millions of acres of land.

RMDs are the mandatory minimum amounts you must withdraw annually from traditional, SEP, or SIMPLE IRAs starting at age 73. Designed for tax collection, these withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. Failing to take the full RMD by the deadline (usually Dec. 31) can result in a 25% penalty tax. You can make these gifts directly from your retirement fund. An RMD can also fund a CGA (charitable gift annuity) or CRT (charitable remainder trust) that can benefit a non-profit.

The first RMD is required during the calendar year the traditional IRA owner turns 73. However, the IRA owner has until April 1st of the following year to take the first RMD and stay in compliance. That person will still need to make another RMD for 2026 before December 31, 2026.

If you are considering an RMD donation to HMI and need assistance or have other questions about gifts of stock transfers, please email us or call our Administration and Development Support, Deverell Pedersen at 505-842-5252 ext 701.