Fraudulent Charities

This time of year there is a significant increase in charities asking for donations. But don't be fooled by their enticement, not all charities are legitimate some are charity scams (especially after a natural disaster). Even with a famous celebrity for a spokesperson doesn't necessarily mean they are a registered not for profit company.

Make sure you do your research first (I usually only give to local charities where I know the work they are doing)

1. Check first to see if they are a legitimate charity 
2. Look at their financial statements (beware if they don't disclose these)
3. How much is going to administrative costs (some use as much as 90% of your donation toward "administrative" costs.
4. Look closely at the name. Sometimes fraudulent sites use a name close to a legitimate one or imitate a well known charity with a similar logo.
5. Also be aware of Go Fund Me pages. These are ripe with scams. Only donate to those you know to be legitimate.

U.K. Charities

U.S. Charities

Fraudulent Charities That Falsely Claim to Help Veterans

Matching Donations Scams

Fraudulent Cancer Charities