Giving to Charities? PA Secretary Cortes Provides Tips to Contribute Wisely |
Tips for Contributors Available from Bureau of Charitable Organizations
HARRISBURG, Pa., Dec. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Pennsylvanians planning to
give to charities should educate themselves and follow a few tips,
Secretary of the Commonwealth Pedro A. Cortes reminded today.
Cortes encouraged residents to contribute to causes close to their
hearts, whether to a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen, or an
international organization working on a global scale.
"Pennsylvanians generously give to a variety of worthy causes," said
Cortes. "As with any expenditure, contributions should be made carefully to
ensure that your dollars are used wisely."
Before signing a check to any charitable organization, learn where your
money will go and how it is spent. While most charities are legitimate,
some are not. Research the charity before giving. Be sure that the
charity's practices match your expectations.
Cortes said the Department of State's Bureau of Charitable
Organizations' Web site contains tips and warnings for charitable giving,
such as:
-- Never give to a charity you know nothing about.
-- Do not hesitate to request written information from the charity
regarding its programs and finances.
-- Do not feel pressured into giving on the spot or allowing someone to
come to your house to pick up the contribution.
-- Never commit to donate over the phone unless you are familiar with the
organization.
-- Never give cash, credit card numbers or bank account numbers; always
write a check payable to the charity so you have record of your
donations.
-- All charities have expenses, so check carefully and know where your
money goes.
-- Find out if your contribution is tax-deductible. Giving before Dec.
31, 2006 may provide donors deductions for the upcoming tax filing.
Consult your tax advisor to determine whether your contribution is tax
deductible.
More than 9,500 charities are registered to solicit contributions in
Pennsylvania. The Bureau of Charitable Organizations' Web site contains
important information on these charities. Visit http://www.state.pa.us and
search using the PA Keyword "charities."
Through the bureau's online registry, consumers can learn how much
charities spend on fundraising and administrative costs, and how much is
spent on the causes they support. With this information, donors can make
better- informed decisions about charitable giving.
Consumers without Internet access can call the Department of State's
Bureau of Charitable Organizations toll-free at 1-800-732-0999 to obtain
information on charities.
CONTACT: Leslie Amoros or Cathy Ennis, both of Pennsylvania Department
of State, +1-717-783-1621.
SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of State
back to topRelated links:
CONTACT:
Leslie Amoros or Cathy Ennis, both of
Pennsylvania Department of State, +1-717-783-1621
