Donate to recognized charities with a history.

Donate to recognized charities with a history.

Ask the caller “Are you calling on behalf of a charity? What is the name of your organization?”

Look closely at charities with names similar to well-known organizations. Some phony charities try to gain your trust by using names that sound or look like legitimate organizations. Ask the caller “Can you point me to a website or another resource for more information about your organization?”

Avoid giving cash gifts. For security and tax purposes, it’s best to pay by check, made payable to the charity, not the solicitor.

Be skeptical if someone thanks you for a pledge you don’t remember making. If you have any doubts about whether you’ve made a pledge or previously contributed, check your records.

Reject high-pressure appeals. Legitimate fundraisers don’t put you on the spot to give.

After receiving a call asking for a donation, call the charity in question to find out whether it is aware of the solicitation and has authorized the use of its name.

Source: Federal Trade Commission