INDIANA – As tax season draws near, Indiana residents are being cautioned about the rise of charity scams. Fraudulent individuals often pose as legitimate charity representatives, using emails, fake websites, and even altering caller IDs to mislead potential donors.
To help protect yourself from these scams, the IRS has provided several important tips:
- Verify Charity Information: If you receive a call from someone claiming to represent a charity, ask for the exact name, website, and mailing address. Use the IRS’s Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) tool to confirm the charity’s legitimacy.
- Take Your Time: Do not feel pressured to donate on the spot. Legitimate charities appreciate donations anytime and will not rush you to decide.
- Choose Safe Payment Methods: Avoid donating via gift cards or wire transfers, as scammers often favor these methods. Instead, use credit cards or checks, which offer better security for your donations.
- Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with FBI resources on charity and disaster fraud. These can provide valuable insights and help you recognize potential scams before contributing.
As tax season brings an influx of charitable solicitations, staying vigilant can help ensure that your contributions go to reputable organizations, not fraudsters.
