There are so many scams out there. One of the most heartless is taking advantage of people who want to give money to a legitimate charity, especially after a tragedy or disaster. Scammers can set up fake organizations to take advantage of people’s generosity.
These scams are usually over the phone, and while the organization may sound legitimate, the person on the other end might demand a donation immediately. Remember, a charity will happily receive a donation anytime, so you shouldn’t feel pressured.
You can research charity organizations using the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool—this will help you narrow down a list of legitimate charities. You may even be able to claim a deduction on your tax return.
This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.
Tip adapted from IRS10
Footnotes and Sources
- IRS.gov, April 4, 2024
