Charities depend on us to support them in serving the public for various causes. Many use the donations wisely however, some use a large portion of the money for administrative, and fund raising. Some are simply frauds. This column will help you identify which charities use your donations wisely and how much goes to the cause you intended.

Check list

• Be sure you know the charity, not one that sounds the same.
• Is  your money being  spent wisely?
  
• Don't be pressured into giving today, they will be just as happy to get your donation after you check on them.
  
• Don't feel you have to make a contribution because they sent you a gift.
• Is your donation "Tax Deductible", if so you may deduct it from your taxes. If the charity is "Tax exempt" it just means they don't pay taxes.

You can check to se if a charity is registered with the State of Florida by contacting the Department of Agriculture hotline at 1-800-435-7352 or view the Gift Givers Guide web site at

www.800helpfl.com

 PLEASE NOTE!