How to Reduce Charitable Donation Solicitations

Take steps to reduce donation solicitation.

While it is a good idea to help out a few charities, there is no way you can donate to them all. It can be disheartening to have a large number of unsolicited charitable donation requests come in the mail, knowing you can't come to everyone's aid. According to the website Charity Navigator, there is no way to completely stop charitable donation solicitations. You can, however, take steps to reduce the number of solicitations you receive.

Instructions

1. Check the privacy policy of any charities you wish to donate to. Make sure they don't have a clause that allows them to share your personal information with other charities. Only donating to charities with a solid privacy policy will reduce the number of solicitations you receive.

2. Uncheck the "receive information from our valuable partners" box if you make any online donations. These charitable websites may also have an opt-out button you can click instead. Reading the fine print before clicking the "Submit" button can save you from some unnecessary solicitations.

3. Contact the National Association of State Charity Officials (see Resources) to obtain the contact information for the official in your state. This organization regulates charitable solicitations. You can check on the charity you want to donate to, or let the organization know that you have been receiving solicitations from certain charities.

4. Sign up for the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service program (see Resources). This will greatly reduce the number of charitable solicitations you receive. You will be able to select the mail you want to receive and put your name on the National Do Not Mail form.

5. Send a letter directly to the charities that are asking you for donations. Ask the charity to cease and desist sending you solicitations. Keep a copy for your records in case the organization does not comply.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are receiving charitable solicitations by phone, put your name on the "Do Not Call" list by calling 888-382-1222.

• Report any abusers to the consumer protection agency in your state. Abusers are charitable organizations that continue to contact you for donations after you have specifically asked them to stop.

References

• American Institute of Philanthropy: Seven Tips for Reducing Unwanted Mail and Phone Appeals
• Charity Navigator: How To Stop Solicitations By Mail
• Federal Trade Commission: Charitable Donations: Give or Take
• Direct Marketing Association: Direct Mail 101

Resources

• National Association of State Charity Officials
• Direct Marketing Association: Get Started