Beware of Fake Charities
By Allison Roberts on Monday, December 3rd, 2007 :: 2:43 pmCategory: Watching Out 4 You
During the holiday season many non-profit organizations make a fundraising push. They try to tap into the giving spirit most of us usually feel this time of year. A charitable donation does good things for your conscience, as well as your taxes, at the end of the year.
However, it is important to beware of fraudulent charities, which are not charities at all. These organizations are out to get your money – and you definitely won’t get a tax deduction for it.
The Federal Trade Commission provides a checklist of items to consider prior to making a donation:
- Be wary of organizations seeking donations for the military. The Department of Defense does not endorse any war-related charity. Visit www.army.mil/operations/oif/FAQ.html for more information on relief organizations that help U.S. service members.
- Get written information. If you are asked to donate to a charity, ask for written information about how your money will be used. They can also provide proof that your donation will be tax deductible.
- ID your solicitor. If the telemarketer calling and asking for a donation is legitimate, he or she will be able to provide the name of the charity for which he or she is soliciting. Once you have the name, you can call the charity yourself to verify information if you wish to make a donation. If the telemarketer cannot verify for you, then hang up and report the call to law enforcement officials.
- Watch out for fast talk. If they organization says they are “tax exempt,” that means the organization does not have to pay taxes. If they are “tax deductible,” that means you are able to deduct your donation on your taxes. Make sure to get a receipt in writing for your federal income tax deduction. Additionally, if the organization presents you with a “tax I.D. number” this does NOT mean that you can deduct your donation from your taxes. Every non-profit and for-profit organization in America must have a tax I.D. number.
Giving to charities is a good thing for you and your community. Charities help those who are in need, and helping others is usually at the forefront of our minds during the holiday season – more so than other times of the year. Donate as much as you wish, just be certain that the organization to which you contribute is reputable. If you follow the guidelines above, you can be certain that your donation will make an impact.
Author Bio: Allison Roberts is a graduate of the University of North Texas Department of Journalism. She has experience in agency and in freelance public relations. Allison currently writes for Credit Solutions and she is completing an unfinished work of her late grandfather. For more articles by Allison on bankruptcy visit Credit Solutions.
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