08/11/2026
Don't Let Your Generosity Become Someone Else's Payday
When disasters strike or heartbreaking stories make the headlines, most of us want to help. Unfortunately, scammers know that too.
Every year, the IRS warns taxpayers about charitable giving scams, and this year is no exception. Fraudsters often take advantage of people's generosity by creating fake charities, collecting personal information, or promoting questionable tax schemes involving charitable donations.
Before making your next donation, here are a few simple steps to help protect yourself:
Verify the charity. Before donating, confirm that the organization is a qualified tax-exempt charity. Not every organization claiming to support a cause is eligible for tax-deductible donations.
Keep good records. Save receipts and documentation for both cash and non-cash donations. Good records are essential if you plan to claim a deduction.
Be cautious with donated property. If you're donating items such as artwork, collectibles, or other valuable assets, make sure they're valued accurately. Be wary of anyone promising inflated appraisals or claiming a donation can dramatically reduce your tax bill.
A good rule of thumb...
If a charitable opportunity seems too urgent, too good to be true, or comes with promises of unusually large tax savings, take a step back before moving forward.
The best charitable gifts are made with both your heart and a little due diligence.
A few extra minutes spent verifying an organization today can help ensure your contribution reaches the people who truly need it and help you avoid becoming the victim of a costly scam tomorrow.