Questions to Ask befor You Donate
Even in a bad economy, people still reach deep into their pockets to help out those who are less fortunate, especially as the holidays draw near. However, in good times or bad, it’s important to know that the money you are giving to a charity is truly being put to good use. Many con artists try to cheat people out of their dollars by pretending to be involved in a legitimate charitable organization. The Society of Louisiana CPAs (LCPA) offers these questions to ask to ensure you are avoiding charity scams.
Can You Give Me Details in Writing?
A reputable organization should be happy to supply you with written information that covers its address and contact details, what kinds of works it is involved in and whether your donation will be tax deductible. You can also learn more about individual organizations through the Better Business Bureau at www.give.org. If the group refuses to provide you with complete information -- or gives hazy answers about its mission or its tax-exempt status -- don’t turn over any money to them.
Should I Respond to This Email or Phone Call?
Many con artists use email or phone calls to solicit donations for phony charities, so do some research before sending money in response to an appeal, and never reveal any personal or account information in an email or otherwise.
How Much of My Money Goes to Charity?
Ask if the person or group soliciting the donation is a paid fundraiser, and how much of your donation will actually go to those in need, rather than paying for salaries or other administrative costs. Go to www.charitynavigator.org to see ratings of various organizations and a full report, including details on how their money is spent.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
Every day the news brings compelling pictures of natural and manmade disasters and other problems that leave people in need of help. Charitable groups often seem to spring up out of nowhere to help, but even if their intentions are good, donating to a brand new group may not be the best idea. That’s because the group may not have the experience necessary to get the job done. Your charitable dollars may be better spent by an organization with a long history of responding to similar disasters or problems. Remember, too, that disasters often bring out fraudulent organizations trying to take advantage of the public’s generosity, so be particularly careful when dealing with an unknown group.
Do I Have to Donate to Win a Prize?
Some groups tell you that your donation qualifies you to enter a contest for valuable prizes. In fact, it is illegal to require you to make a donation in order to win a prize. Donations to organizations that use this come-on are probably not really going to those in need. And the “contest” is likely bogus, as well. Find out also whether your donation is tax deductible, as it should be when made to a legitimate charitable organization.
Can You Repeat the Name of Your Organization?
Many phony operations choose names that sound just like legitimate, well-known charitable organizations in order to con people into trusting them. If you’re uncertain about whom you’re dealing with, contact the better-known group to see if the solicitation is really from them.
Rely on Your CPA
Your local CPA can offer advice on how to spend your money wisely, whether you’re making a charitable donation or putting together a family budget. Turn to him or her with your important financial questions.
For more tax and financial advice, visit the Public section of the LCPA's website at www.lcpa.org.
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Pursuant to IRS Circular 230 and IRS regulations we inform you that any federal tax advice contained in this article is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties imposed under the Internal Revenue Code.
Copyright 2009 The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
