The recent tragedy in Japan has prompted many people to reach out and donate to various disaster relief organizations working in the area to help victims. The Better Business Bureau warns, however, that - as occurred following the tsunami in 2004, Katrina in 2005 and the earthquake in Haiti just last year - fraudulent charities often emerge to scam donations from well-meaning Canadians.

To avoid being swindled or having your dollars misdirected, plan your giving and demand accountability of the organizations soliciting your support.

If you plan to donate money this spring season - whether it’s for disaster relief in Japan or for another cause close to your heart - BBB would like to offer the following advice:

Be cautious when giving online. Be cautious about online giving, especially in response to spam messages and emails that claim to link to a relief organization. In the days following the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, several phoney charitable websites popped up alleging to help victims.

When in doubt, check it out. When an unfamiliar organization asks you for a donation, don’t give without gathering details about the charity, the nature of its programs, and its use of funds. Visit the Canadian Revenue Agency for a list of registered charities in Canada.

Check out a charity’s claims. Despite what an organization claims, charities have fundraising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. If a charity claims that 100 per cent of collected funds will be assisting, for instance, earthquake victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fundraising and administrative expenses. They may use some of their other funds for payments, but the expenses will still be incurred.

Think before you give. If you are solicited at home or on the street, take a minute or two to “think.” Ask for the charity’s name and address, and get full identification from the solicitor and review it carefully. Ask to see written information on the charity’s programs and finances.

Giving later might be better. Never feel pressured to give on the spot. Legitimate charities will welcome your money tomorrow. If the solicitor pressures you with intimidation or harassing phone calls, don’t hesitate to file a complaint with BBB.

Watch out for cases of mistaken identity. With about 9,000 registered charities in B.C. alone, it’s not surprising that some charity names sound alike. Be careful that the one soliciting you is the one you have in mind.

Watch out for charity fraud. Legitimate charities do not demand donations. They willingly provide written information about their programs, finances or how donations are used; and they never insist you provide your credit card number, bank account number or any other personal information.

Tax receipts. If you are looking to make a tax-deductible donation, only a registered charity has received a Registration Number from the Canada Revenue Agency and can issue donation receipts for gifts.

Learn more about giving to charities by visiting www.mbc.bbb.org

MAY 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND / VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND