Information Sheet
How can I donate wisely?
To protect yourself from fraud, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recommends that you follow the tips below-- before you donate.
Learn and confirm
Confirm that a charity that claims to be registered with the CRA is in fact registered. Consult the CRA Charities Listings at www.cra.gc.ca/donors or call 1-800-267-2384. Confirm that you will receive an official donation receipt if you want to claim a tax credit. Tax receipts must meet specific requirements: For more information, see: www.cra.gc.ca/donors Ask the charity what activities your donations will support. Make sure you know who you are donating to. Sometimes fraudulent charities use names that are similar to well-known and respected charities. Beware of schemes that promise you tax savings greater than your cost, thus allowing you to "profit" from donating to a registered charity. For complete details, see the donor alert section of www.cra.gc.ca/donors. Ask yourself: Am I satisfied that my donation will support the work of a legitimate charity?
Take action
Write cheques payable to the charity, not an individual, or make sure that your online payments are secure. Refuse to donate if there are signs of fraud, such as inappropriate pressure to give immediately or being offered a receipt for more than you actually donate. Report fraud to PhoneBusters, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Centre, at: 1-888-495-8501. Learn, confirm, and take action. Be an informed donor. www.cra.gc.ca/donors
RC306-3d(E)