How to Donate to a Local Charity
Charities help support individuals and families who have experienced different problems, such as natural disasters or disease. Some charities support national causes, while other charities support local causes. Choosing a local charity to support takes time, as some requests for money are fraudulent. An August 2010 Charitable Navigator article discusses the importance of researching your charity before making a financial decision. Learn about the local charity's background and decide if you can support its goals.
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Instructions
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Decide on a local charity for your donation. Charities might focus on religion, children, social issues or health. Ask yourself why your prefer a local charity over a national charity. Contact the local charity and ask about visiting its location. Agree on a non-busy time, so you can sit with the charity's director and ask detailed questions, ranging from operations to finances. Make a list of questions for the charity.
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Research your local charity selections before making a financial decision. Find out about the charity's mission and who makes up the executive team. Charity Navigator advises donors to support groups who allow a tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code. When you make a donation, request the charity tax exempt letter. You need the tax exempt letter to claim your contribution as a tax deduction.
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Learn what percentage of a charity's donations goes to the charitable cause and what goes to salaries and administration fees, advises the American Institute of Philanthropy. Avoid local charities who refuse to provide you with financial documents or ignore your questions. Contact neighbors who have donated to the local charity. Ask which charities gave them correct information and provided literature about their services.
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Keep track of your local charity donations. Place the donation information where you keep your financial or legal records. Give this information to your financial or tax planner. Discuss with your planner about your tax deduction eligibility. The American Institute of Philanthropy advises against providing charities with cash. You want to obtain receipts for your charitable donations.
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Tips & Warnings
Speak with a financial planner about donations.
Support charities you have contacted.
Do not rush into making a donation.
References
Resources
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