April 7, 2025

A nurse's legacy continues: Bettye Dacus' tax-efficient giving through her IRA

With Tax Day approaching on April 15, Bettye Dacus, RN (ret.), has found a smart way to support California Hospital Medical Center that shaped her 52-year nursing career while also enjoying significant tax benefits.

Bettye Dacus California Hospital and its patients have always been family for Dacus, who dedicated more than five decades of service before retiring in 2014.

"As Tax Day comes around each year, I'm reminded of how grateful I am to have discovered a way to support the hospital that gave me so much while being tax-smart with my retirement funds," Dacus explains.

Now over the qualifying age of 70 ½ , Dacus takes advantage of qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) from her Individual Retirement Account. This allows her to contribute up to $108,000 per year directly to California Hospital without paying income taxes on the distribution—a significant benefit as April 15 approaches.

"When my financial advisor explained that I could give directly from my IRA and it would count toward my required minimum distribution without increasing my taxable income, it just made perfect sense," says Dacus. "It's a win-win situation.”

During her career, Dacus formed countless meaningful connections with patients, including a young college student who had his leg amputated after being shot. She provided care and support during his surgeries and recovery. Two years later, she was honored to receive a wedding invitation from the former patient, now able to walk down the aisle thanks in part to her compassionate care.

Bettye Dacus, right, with her California Hospital School of Nursing classmates "The approaching tax deadline reminds me of how important it is to be thoughtful to causes that matter most to me," Dacus reflects. "I love this hospital. It's been a part of my life for over 60 years, and using my IRA to give back is the perfect way to ensure it continues being a cornerstone for our community."

Learn more about how you can leverage your retirement assets to benefit you and your family, reduce federal taxes and support California Hospital Medical Center far into the future.

The gift planning information presented is intended to be general. It is not to be considered tax, legal or financial advice. Please consult your own personal advisors prior to any decision.