9 tips to vet a charity before making a donation
Charity is a noble contribution a person makes, often to nonprofit organizations, to help them further a social cause. In addition to bringing fulfillment and joy, the act can provide extensive tax benefits to the donor. However, not all social organizations are legitimate. So, diligent research is critical to ensure your monetary contribution is put to good use. Here are nine simple tips for vetting a charity before making a donation. Identify the organization’s mission To begin with, identify the cause you intend to support. It could be animal protection, racial equality, nature conservation, child welfare, or another noble cause. Then, depending on your preference, look for a suitable organization or group that pursues the same mission. Seeking suggestions from family and friends can help. Finally, after shortlisting the names of preferred organizations, research them thoroughly. Verify their registered information A legitimate charity must register itself with a regulatory body. So, visit the websites of organizations like the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for information about them. The IRS can help verify if the charity is authorized to accept donations. Check Form 990 Form 990 can give you a better understanding of the nonprofit’s financial standing. Each year, nonprofit organizations submit this form to the IRS, which includes information related to their governance, finances, and mission.
