'Tis The Season To Beware Of Charity Scams
DENVER (CBS4) - It's the time of year to give to charities but givers beware. There are mock charities trying to scam your donations from you.
Both the Better Business Bureau and the Colorado Attorney General's Office warn that a lot of people donate to bogus groups.
Adriana Carmona of the BBB says donors don't do enough research before giving.
"Sixty-five percent of Americans don't really check on the nonprofits before they make a donation. They're donating on the spot," Carmona said.
That means that instead of helping buy presents for low-income families you could be filling a scammer's pockets with money.
The BBB said so far this year they've had a total of 21 complaints filed with them about charities. The most common complaints included service or delivery issues, contract issues, or sales practice issues.
The following are some tips to make sure your money is going to a legitimate charity:
- Go to the website of the charity you choose and make sure it looks legitimate.
- Don't give donations to people soliciting door to door.
- Ask for proof that your donation is tax deductible.
- Ask the solicitor how much of your donation will go to charity.
- Don't respond to emails soliciting donations.
- Don't make cash donations, always pay with check or credit card.
Additional Resources
LINK: BBB's Accredited Charities List
Suzanne McCarroll is a general assignment reporter at CBS4. Her stories can regularly be seen on CBS4 News at 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Connect with her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter @SuzanneCBS4.
