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Donors have many choices to consider when giving to charity. Things such as what type of charity to give to, where the money is going and the charity's past record are all important. BBB offers these basic tips and information donors should consider when giving:
- Confirm the charity’s exact name. With so many charities in existence, mistaken identity is a common problem. Thousands of charities have “cancer” in their name, for example, but no connection with one another.
- Resist pressure to give on the spot, whether from a telemarketer or door-to-door solicitor.
- Be wary of heart-wrenching appeals. What matters is what the charity is doing to help.
- Press for specifics. If the charity says it’s helping the homeless, for example, ask how and where it’s working.
- Check websites for basics. A charity’s mission, program and finances should be available on its site. If not, check for a report at Give.org.
- Check the charity's registration. There are registration requirements for charities in both the United States and Canada. In the United States, it is determined state-by-state. You can check into a charity with the relevant office in your state. In Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency maintains a list of charities with information on whether the charity is registered, revoked, annulled, penalized, or suspended.
- Don’t assume that every soliciting organization is tax exempt as a charity. To find out if your donation will be tax-deductible, check with the IRS, the Canada Revenue Agency or your tax preparer.
- Research the charity with BBB. BBB provides information on about 11,000 national and local charities. Check out a charity with BBB and see if they meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.
Get more information on charities and tips for donors.
BBB Serving Metropolitan New York contributed this article.