Robert Rimberg Attorney with Tips on How to Avoid Charity Fraud

Robert Rimberg attorney, and founder of Bill4Time, a time tracking and revenue management software designed for legal professionals. Throughout his career, Robert Rimberg has worked on many cases involving property leases, landlord-tenant relations, and charity fraud.

Charity fraud occurs when organizations use deception to solicit money from individuals who believe they are making donations to genuine charities. Money collected is used for other purposes not intended by the donors. Due diligence is important when you choose to support a cause you’re passionate about. Below are tips that can guide you on how to avoid charity scams.

1. Before making a donation to a charity, always take time to do thorough background checks. Charity names and reputations can be vetted by contacting a state agency in your area that regulates charities.

2. Be cautious when making payments and reject any requests to make donations in cash, wire transfer or gift cards as scammers love these payment modes. A credit card or check is a safer payment method.

3. Always keep a record of donations and carefully review your monthly statements to ensure you’re only billed for the amount you agreed to donate and not deductions for recurring donations.

4. Take a closer look at the web addresses of charities before clicking on them. Scammers create rogue websites with sound-alike names, misspellings, and tweaks. Legitimate non-profit organizations end in .org not .com.

5. Beware of charities that claim the entire 100% donation goes to assisting victims. Genuine charities use a portion of the donations collected to meet their fundraising and administrative costs.

6. Properly vet charities before donating especially right after a disaster as this is the time scammers are likely to capitalize on your goodwill. Only send donations to large, well-established and known charities involved with the right infrastructure to make a difference on the ground.