HELPING HANDS: ’Tis the season to give. Even in our bad economy,
people will still reach into their pockets to help those who are
less fortunate, especially around the holidays.

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.
Sadly, many con artists try to cheat people by pretending to be
involved in a legitimate charitable organization.

Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants suggests
that you ask these questions to ensure you are avoiding charity
scams: 

Can you give me details in writing? A reputable organization
should be happy to supply written information that includes its
address and contact details, the kinds of work it is involved in,
and whether your donation will be tax deductible. 

Did you send an e-mail appeal? Many con artists use e-mail to
solicit donations for phony charities. Do some verification
research before sending money in response to an online appeal, and
never reveal any personal or account information in an e-mail.

How much of my money really goes to charity? Ask if the person
or group soliciting the donation is a paid fundraiser. Also ask how
much of your donation will go to those in need, rather than paying
for salaries or other administrative costs.

How long have you been in business? Every day the news brings
pictures of 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. Often, these groups may not
have the experience necessary to accomplish their goals.

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 produce fraudulent
organizations trying to take advantage of the public’s generosity,
so be particularly careful when dealing with an unknown group.