Congress once again has extended an incentive to seniors for charitable giving through the end of January.

People age 70 ½ and older may channel up to $100,000 a year from individual retirement accounts directly to charities such as the Freedom From Religion Foundation through the end of January, and count such giving in their 2010 taxes. The Middle Class Tax Relief Act of 2010 signed by President Obama renews the IRA Charitable Rollover through Dec. 31, 2011. It is also retroactive, meaning that tax benefits apply to any qualified donations made after Dec. 31, 2009. The act specifically provides that qualified donations between Dec. 31, 2010, and Feb. 1, 2011, may be claimed for 2010 taxes.

Donations routed directly from an IRA to the FFRF can be deducted from taxable income. (Such gifts are not “tax deductible.” The amount that is given is directly subtracted from taxable income.)

Current special projects which donors may wish to earmark are outlined in FFRF’s end of the year appeal. Or donations may just be given to the general fund. You may give and designate online, or use the donation slip with self-addressed envelope that was mailed to all FFRF members this month. FFRF's Year in Review noting FFRF's impressive 2010 accomplishments can be read here.

FFRF is deeply appreciative of all donations to further its goals of keeping religion out of government, and educating the public about nontheism.