Avoiding Charity Scams

The IRS released its annual list of the "Dirty Dozen" taxpayer scams yesterday. This year, they focused on fake charities and how to avoid getting taken advantage of. Some tips from the IRS:

• Be wary of charities with names (or web sites) that are similar to familiar, respected, nationally known organizations. Make sure the organization you're giving to is the one you intended.  IRS.gov has a search feature, Exempt Organizations Select Check, to check up on any doubtful donees.
• Don’t give out personal financial information, such as Social Security numbers or passwords, to anyone who solicits a contribution from you. If you use a credit card number to make a donation, be very careful about whom you're speaking with, especially if donating by phone.
• Don’t give or send cash. Contributing by check or credit card provides documentation of the gift, making it better for both security and tax record purposes.