HONOLULU (KHON2) — Giving Tuesday is the global day of giving that is taking place today, Dec. 3. The day to give back follows the Thanksgiving holiday, and it’s a time when people are encouraged to donate to charities and support causes they care about.
Since its inception in 2012, Giving Tuesday has raised billions for charities around the world.
However, with the increase in charitable giving comes the risk of scams.
KNON2.com Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers important advice to ensure your donation goes to a trustworthy organization.
Do your research before you give
One of the most important steps to safely donating on Giving Tuesday is researching the charity you wish to support.
Many charitable organizations share similar names; so, it’s vital to get the exact name of the charity before contributing.
For example, thousands of organizations use “cancer” in their names; but they may not be affiliated with one another.
To avoid mistaken identity, verify the charity’s information and ensure it aligns with the cause you want to support.
Before donating, BBB recommends checking out the charity’s mission, programs and finances.
A legitimate charity will have these details clearly listed on its website. If you cannot find this information, then consider looking up the charity’s report by clicking here.
There, you can check whether the charity meets the 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability.
Be cautious of emotional appeals
During GivingTuesday, many charities will share emotional stories designed to tug at your heartstrings.
While it’s natural to want to help, it’s essential to dig deeper. A charity should clearly explain how it intends to use your donation.
For instance, if the charity claims to assist the unsheltered, then ask them about the specific programs they offer and how they measure success. Transparency is key.
Watch out for high-pressure solicitation
Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to get you to donate quickly, either through telemarketing or door-to-door solicitation.
If you receive an urgent request for donations, then take a moment to pause. You should never feel rushed into making a donation.
Instead of responding immediately, take the time to check the charity’s credibility.
Reach out to BBB Wise Giving Alliance or consult resources by clicking here to confirm the legitimacy of the organization.
Verify tax-exempt status
Many organizations claim to be tax-exempt charities, but not all are eligible for tax-deductible donations.
In the United States, more than one million organizations have received 501(c)(3) status from the Internal Revenue Service.
This status makes them eligible to accept donations that are tax-deductible. However, having this status does not mean the IRS endorses the charity.
You can verify a charity’s tax status on the IRS website, ensuring your donation is going to a recognized nonprofit.
Avoid social media donation links
While social media platforms can be an excellent way to raise awareness for causes, they are also fertile ground for scams.
Be wary of donation links shared through social media messages. Rather than clicking a link, go directly to the charity’s official website to ensure your donation reaches the intended organization.
This simple step can help you avoid scams that use fake websites to steal your personal information.
Take advantage of resources
For additional advice on donating safely this GivingTuesday, BBB Wise Giving Alliance provides valuable resources.
The site offers free charity reports, and you can also look for charities that are BBB Accredited. This means they meet strict standards of transparency and accountability.
If you’re unsure about a charity, then ask for a report before giving.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your charitable donation makes a real difference and supports a trustworthy organization. This Giving Tuesday, give with confidence, and make your generosity count.