When A Charity Calls Thursday Tip: Do Some Research

Do Some Research

Begin by checking to see if the charity contacting you is one of the almost 7,000 charities that Charity Navigator rates. Charity Navigator's ratings provide clear, objective, and reliable assessments of the Financial Health and Accountability & Transparency of charities. Givers can be confident that in supporting those charities rated highly by Charity Navigator, they will be supporting organizations that are fiscally responsible, financially healthy, accountable and transparent. 

If someone contacts you soliciting a donation for a charity that Charity Navigator does not currently rate you can request a copy of the organization's IRS Form 990 (tax returns). Federal law requires nonprofit organizations to provide their last 3 IRS Form 990s and their IRS Form 1023 (application for tax exemption) within 30 days of your request. This ensures they are a registered nonprofit and also allows a glance at some of the charity's general information such as program expense breakdown, CEO salary and 

Read our guide for additional tips on how to Evaluate Charities Not Currently Rated by Charity Navigator