NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The holidays are approaching and as the spirit of giving spreads across Tennessee, people should be wary of scams. Some popular scams involve thieves posing as nonprofits, pretending to raise money for a cause even if they have no intention of using donations for it.
Tre Hargett, the Tennessee Secretary of State, said people should make sure nonprofits are registered with the state before making donations. The Secretary of State's office also created guidelines to help people give donations more wisely and make sure money is actually being used to further the causes they're passionate about.
Before making donations, Hargett said donors should take a moment and consider whether they believe an organization is legitimate. They can learn more about organizations by asking questions about their mission and impact. Answers to those types of questions may also help donors learn more about the causes they're donating to.
If people plan on claiming any donations they make on their taxes, they should also ask for a receipt. If giving through an app or through a website, donors should also make sure their donations go to the intended organization.
The Secretary of State's office also said potential donors can help out nonprofits further different causes in many ways other than giving money. If they can't afford to give donations, people can volunteer their time or ask if organizations need other kinds of donations, such as if a food pantry needs a specific kind of food.
Anyone who spots a scammer collecting money can reach out to the state's Division of Business and Charitable Organizations at 615-741-2555 to report it.