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Show Choosing charities with prudence submitted by the Better Business Bureau Most charities are legal and worthy of our support, advises the Better Business Bureau (BBB). But, there are some sting operations around and you can expect to hear from them, especially during the holiday season. Don't be too quick to make a decision. Plan your giving, and always demand accountability of the organizations receiving your gift. If you are in doubt, check out the organization by phoning your local Better Business Bureau. The four major solicitation techniques tech-niques are telephone, door to door, on the street and by mail. You have "think" time when you receive a mail appeal. But there usually isn't time to think when the doorbell or the telephone rings or the street pusher holds out the hat. On the phone, at the door or on the street, ask for the charity's full name and address. Get full identification identifica-tion from the solicitor. Give the identification more than a passing glance, Appeals should identify the charity and clearly describe the programs. Before giving, ask if your contribution is tax deductible. Remember that contributions to tax-exempt organizations are not always tax deductible. Registration or licensing for charities is required by most states and communities. Ask if the charity has a license. If you are not satisfied with the answer, tell the caller at your door you want to make a phone check. Chances are when you return, the caller will be out of the neighborhood. Don't be pressured into giving on the spot. If the solicitor uses any high-pressure tactics intimidation, thronls or harrassing calls or visits-phone the BBB or the police. Statements such as "all proceeds will go to charity" can mislead. .What is left after expenses the proceeds may be just pennies. Ask how much of your gift will end up in the charity's pockets. If the sale of candy, magazines, books, etc. is . involved. make sure you find out the exact amount the charity will receive. With mail appeals, keep in mind that it is against the law to demand payment for unordered merchandise. merchan-dise. If a charity sends you merchandise, you are not obligated to return it or pay for it. For large gifts, it is always best, advises the BBB, to request a copy of the organization's annual report, list of board members, and the latest i financial statement of the organization organiza-tion before contributing. And if you have any doubt about the organization, organiza-tion, phone the BBB in your area for a report. |
