With everything happening in the world today, there are hundreds of great causes and organizations that could use extra help. Just scroll through your social media feed and you’ll see the need that exists in our community and around the globe.
For those with a few extra dollars on hand, making a donation is quick and easy with platforms like GoFundMe, Fundly, 4AGoodCause, iDonate and more. But how do you know if your donation is really reaching the people who need it? Or worse yet — if the charity is a scam?
Unfortunately, as the need for charitable acts increases, so do the opportunities for corrupt organizations who prey on the hearts of good people. Don’t let these scammers trample your generosity — follow our tips on how to spot a fake and make sure your money supports a worthy organization or individual.
Do your research
Popular online fundraising platforms like GoFundMe successfully raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for legitimate campaigns each year. But research is imperative. Before clicking the “donate” button, check to see if the following details are readily available: the organizer’s relationship to the intended recipient, an outline of how the funds will be used and whether direct friends, family or colleagues are making donations or leaving supportive comments. If not, be sure to message the organizer for additional details.
Finding a reputable charity is pretty easy if you know where to look. We’ve rounded up a few of the top online resources to find information before opening your wallet.
Charity resources
1. GUIDESTAR
GuideStar.org maintains up-to-date information on thousands of 501(c)(3) nonprofits. A basic search will turn up a nonprofit’s 990, giving you a glimpse into the organization’s legitimacy and how its donations are spent, including the top officers’ earnings. If the charity you’ve chosen doesn’t have this or is not willing to supply it, you may want to reconsider your donation.
2. CHARITY NAVIGATOR
CharityNavigator.org rates charities based on their financial health, accountability and transparency to help donors make informed decisions about their contributions. Don’t see your charity listed? Dig a little deeper to find out why.
3. CHARITY WATCH
CharityWatch.org rates charities on specific criteria and exposes abuse if they see it.
If it’s fishy, it might be phishing
A phishing scheme occurs through online communication or an email. Have you ever received an email asking for a donation or financial assistance? Think twice before clicking any links or responding in any way. Some red flags include:
- Major typos and glaring grammatical errors
- You’ve never donated to this charity or organization before, yet now you’re on their email list
- The “From” email address doesn’t appear to be from a legitimate source
- You’re being asked for your social security or bank account numbers
Be cautious, retirees
Retirees are prime targets for phishing schemes, so be diligent and assist a parent or grandparent if they ask for advice. Visit IHMVCU.org/ProtectYourself for tips on how to stay safe.
Robocalls
Not all scammers work online. There are some who still use the phone as a way to trick people, but charities, government agencies and reputable companies usually won’t contact you by phone. If you receive a call requesting a donation or offering a service that requires offering up sensitive information like credit card, bank account or social security numbers — HANG UP.
No money, no problem
Volunteer service is another great way to support the cause you care about. If you have extra time and can volunteer at your church, local food bank or nursing home, chances are that these organizations will greatly appreciate it. Spending your time with people who may need social interaction or a little help around the house is a great way to give back to your community. You can also donate food, clothing or other goods, or even sign petitions or call people in office to help make a difference.
As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”