Dr. Joyce Cavanagh, our new state specialist in Family and Consumer Economics in Missouri, points out that as the holiday season approaches, the number of solicitations people receive from charitable organizations increases. Forty percent of charitable contributions are received in the last six to eight weeks of the year. Ask questions before making a donation. While most people are happy to support worthwhile causes, many like to know their money is being used as intended. Ask for the full name, address and phone number of the charity.
Some phony charities use names that closely resemble legitimate charities.
Ask whether the organization is listed as a tax exempt public charity with the IRS and if your donation will be tax deductible. Request written information about the charity and a copy of its last annual report be mailed to you. Legitimate charities will be happy to send you material. A dramatic heart-wrenching description of general need may get your attention, but you should know more before you give. Find out how your money will be used before you give.