Save Money ..Charitable Donations

Save Money ...Check out Charities

This time of year you are probably getting requests from charitable organizations in your mailbox, your email, your local organizations... everywhere. Who to give to and who not to..a good question? While there are many good causes for you to give your time and money to there are those that are self serving and only out to make a profit for the administration of the charity, leaving those who need the money with very little help. Here are some hints when it comes to giving:
Do's

• Do find out what percentage of your donation goes to the actual charity. If the charity ask you to buy things such as magazines or greeting cards, find out now much money actually goes to the charity.
  
• Do contact the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving alliance at www.give.org to make sure the organization is authorized to solicit money.
  
• Do get a receipt stating the amount and verifying that it is tax-deductible .
  

Don'ts

• Don't give cash.
  
• Don't give phone or e-mail solicitors personal information. Providing you Social Security ,credit card or bank account number over the phone or via the Internet can put you at risk of identity theft.
  
• Don't succumb to pressure tactics. Intimidation or threats should be reported to the Better Business Bureau.
  

Hope these hints help you decide which charities to give money to. Be back later with more. Until then: Happy Savings!!!

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