Released by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services …
‘Tis the Season of Giving!
This is the time of year when many people focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. If you are considering making a donation, take time to research the charity and make sure it is legitimate.
All charities soliciting within the state of Florida (excluding religious, educational, political and governmental agencies) are required to register and file financial information with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Some organizations may spend as much as 95 percent on their purpose or cause, while others spend more on administrative costs. It is up to the donor to determine if their contribution will be spent the way they intend.
Keep the following tips in mind before agreeing to donate:
- Ask for financial information, such as a copy of the organization’s IRS 990 income tax return, annual report or a breakdown of how the money is spent.
- Ask how your contribution will be used.
- Ask if the caller is a volunteer or a paid solicitor if you are solicited by telephone.
- Ask the solicitor for their license number.
Contact the FDACS toll-free hotline at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) or use our online Check-A-Charity tool at FloridaConsumerHelp.com to verify registration and financial information.
You can also visit www.give.org the website of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, where you can access reports on nationally soliciting charities. The BBB Wise Giving Alliance evaluates charities against comprehensive Standards for Charity Accountability to help donors make informed giving decisions.