Attorney General Kwame Raoul cautioned potential donors to make wise decisions this holiday season. Under Illinois law, fundraisers and charitable organizations are required to register each year with the Attorney General’s office. Attorney General Raoul recommended donors consider the following tips before making charitable donations: 

• Don’t assume that charity recommendations on social media or text messages are legitimate and have already been scrutinized. Research the charity yourself.

• Pay close attention to the name of the charity. Some fraudulent charities use names that sound or look like those of legitimate organizations to mislead you. 

• Do not pay in cash or send peer-to-peer payments with apps, like Venmo or Zelle. For security and tax purposes, pay by check, credit card or a form of payment for which you will have a record. Be sure to write the full official name of the charity on your check – do not use abbreviations.

• Request written information. A legitimate charity will provide you with information outlining its mission, how your donation will be distributed, and proof that your contribution is tax deductible. 

• Do not donate if the solicitor uses high-pressure tactics, asks for cash payment or insists on sending someone to pick up your donation. These are all hallmarks of a scam.

Report suspicious solicitations by contacting Attorney General Raoul’s Charitable Trust Bureau online or by calling 312-814-2595.