Charity Fraud
How to avoid fraud and make the most of your donations

Throughout the year, and especially during the holiday season, you probably get appeals in the mail or by telephone urging you to contribute financially to a good cause. But be warned there are plenty of fraud operators out there who are scheming for your money--and the last thing on their mind is charity. Not only do such come-ons bilk you of your money, but they also put money you intended for the needy into the hands of con artists.

The American people are the most generous in the world. Charities in this country raised over 200 billion dollars annually, and 86 percent of the money came from individuals.

Fraudulent fundraisers operate in the shadiest areas of society; they rarely meet face-to-face with their victims, preferring the telephone, the mail, and the Internet to prey upon a donor’s charitable instincts. They often target the elderly and use manipulative techniques that rely heavily on a person’s emotional vulnerability and kindness of heart.

According to the Better Business Bureaus, Americans often react sympathetically when asked for money, but the vast majority of contributors give to organizations without checking them out first. A willingness to give and a trusting nature are traits that can lead donors to give to charities that range from questionable (spending only a small fraction of donations on the cause itself) to outright frauds.

When this happens, the donor’s well-intended act of generosity is wasted; the individuals who need help fail to receive it from the charity’s programs; and other reputable charities suffer from the backlash of anxiety that charity fraud creates when the public’s confidence in legitimate nonprofit organizations is undermined.

Follow these simple guidelines when deciding to make a donation:

• Give directly to a known charity of your choice.

• Don't be fooled by "look-alike" names.

• Ask phone solicitors to send printed literature with contact information on it.

• Check out organizations you're unfamiliar with, or whose names are similar to other well-known charities.

• If you're unfamiliar with the charity, ask for its annual report and financial statement.  If they are unwilling to provide these documents, you should be suspicious.

• Make checks payable to an organization only - never an individual.

• Never give credit card or checking information over the phone to someone you do not know.

• Be suspicious of solicitors who say they will accept your donation in cash only.

• Watch for excessive pressure.  Legitimate charities won't push you to give on the spot.

• Be wary of guaranteed sweepstakes winnings in exchange for your contribution.  You never have to donate to be eligible to win.

You can also check on all businesses, including charitable organizations by contacting the Better Business Bureau.

Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin
10101 W. Greenfield Ave, Suite 125
Milwaukee, WI   53214
Phone: (414) 847-6000
Fax: (414) 302-0355
Email: info@wisconsin.bbb.org
Office Hours: 8:30 to 3:30 Monday through Friday
Or visit their website at:  www.wisconsin.bbb.org