I have a client over 70.5 that is currently living in a HUD multifamily rental unit. Her 2017 annual income was $8,598 and taxable income was $0. Due to this, she gets a reduced rental rate that she pays out of her Social Security benefit even though she has assets of over $200,000, 3/4 of which is in an IRA. She wants to gift $10,000 to her grandchild to help cover the costs of her tuition. She has $10,000 in cash in her individual account as a result of her 2018 RMD which I could gift which would not result in any tax consequences. However, the home regularly checks her account statements and tax returns and I’m sure will notice the change in value. This could negatively affect her rent. I’ve tried to look on HUD’s website and all it states is if she receives a gift they consider that income, but it makes no mention if she gifts money away. Is that considered income too? Anyone know of any resources out there? I’m guessing we couldn’t do a QCD as a college wouldn’t be considered a charity, but I am thinking that the best way might be to gift the $ directly to the school and not to the parent or grandchild. Or, does the child take out loans and she makes a provision in her will to give her the money after she passes? As you can see I have lots of avenues to ponder but trying to make sure that both my client and her grandchild aren’t affected too much in their monthly rent or her financial aid.