False Charities

False charities are created as a scam to collect money from those people kind enough to donate.  These false charities often use names that are very close to the names of legitimate and respected charities.  The end of the year is the peak season for charity appeals, consequently false charities correspond with this time period for their appeals. 

Be careful if an unfamiliar charity organization contacts you.

Warning Signs:

• High pressure or threatening telemarketers who want you to contribute immediately.
• Someone calls thanking you for a pledge you don't remember making.
• Copycat names, names that might be misleading or deceiving.

What you can do:

• If you receive a telephone call, ask for the information to be sent to you in writing.  Ask how much of your gift will be used directly for the charity.  Ask how much will go toward administrative costs.  Legitimate charities have no problem giving you this information.
• Remember on an incoming call a person could be misrepresenting a legitimate charity.
• Never give your personal or financial information out over the phone or at the door.  If you wish to make a contribution with a check, remember you can mail your check directly to the charity.
• Call the charity.  Find out if they know about the appeal and have authorized it.