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ARTICLES
Protect Yourself Against FraudPosted: Tuesday, April 28th, 2009 Ask Before You Give* What activities does the charity perform, and where? * What is the charity's registration number? * Can I get a tax receipt? * How much of my donation goes directly to helping others? How much goes to administration and fundraising costs? * Can you send me more information before I donate? Protect Yourself* Know the charity. Get information about the charity before you donate. * Don't give in to an emotional appeal or pressure. Take time to think about your decision. A real charity will take your donation anytime. * Make sure your donation is going to an organization, not a person. Any cheque should be written out in the organization's name, not a person's name, even for a pledge. * Never give or send cash. Use cheques payable to the charity's full name. Read and keep all your receipts. * Don't give out your personal information. Your credit card numbers, Social Insurance Number and bank account information should not be needed to make a donation. * Beware of copycats. Some names sound like well-known charities to fool you. Make sure you know which organization you're donating to. * Check the facts. Refuse to donate if there is inappropriate pressure to give immediately or if there are signs of fraud, such as being offered a receipt for more than you actually donate. You can report suspected fraud to PhoneBusters, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Centre, by calling 1-888-495-8501. For more information from Canada Revenue Agency, visit www.cra.gc.ca/donors or call toll-free SENIOR LIVING VANCOUVER ISLAND - May 2009 This article has been viewed 317 times. CommentsNo comments yet. Add your own! |    |
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