Staff Reports
Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, whose department oversees charities in Florida, is offering tips for “Giving Tuesday,” observed the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services “helps Floridians maximize their donations by providing detailed information on charities registered in Florida,” a press release said.
Putnam shared the following advice:
— Use the department’s Check-A-Charity tool at FloridaConsumerHelp.com to view a charity’s financial information and how contributions are being spent.
You can also see current registration status, or call 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352).
— Scammers take advantage of people’s generosity by pretending to be a real charity to commit fraud.
Frequently, bogus charities will exploit a recent natural disaster or tragedy, such as a hurricane, and promise to use the donations to aid victims. It is also important not to judge a charity solely on its name, as many organizations may use names similar to well-known charities and organizations.
— Always obtain and save a printed copy of a donation or a receipt of the contribution amount.
Not all organizations soliciting in the name of benevolence are true charities eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. Ask about the organization’s federal and state eligibility for receiving tax deductible donations. Typically, such donations fall under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3).
“All charities soliciting within Florida, excluding religious, educational, political and governmental agencies, are required to register and file financial information with the department,” the release said. “If a professional solicitor is requesting a donation on behalf of a charity, the solicitor also must be registered with the department and should be able to provide their registration number.”
Again, for more information about individual charities, check out the Check-A-Charity tool.
