Making an online donation to support a cause you care about is one way to make a difference. But ensure you know a few things before hitting that donate button. Ensure your donation ends up in the right hands by choosing a reputable charity. Here’s how to go about the process.
Take the Time to Research
That’s the first step before donating funds. Not all charities are legit. Research helps you filter your options, so you won’t have to end up supporting a fake organization, with fake advocacies and campaigns. Research saves you from wasting your money and getting scammed.
Look at Reviews
Find out what other donors say about the organization. How was their experience? Their feedback can help you get a decent gauge of how the charity works behind the scenes, why donors choose them, and why they’re the best match for you.
Check for Security
You’re making an online donation in India to a charity. That means checking if the site is safe and secure is a priority. Is there a padlock icon in the web address bar? What about the payment method? Is it safe? Don’t donate if you’re unsure about the safety and security of your private or financial data.
Consider Their Finances
Don’t forget to look at the organization’s financial statements. Are they in the clear or operating in the red? Is the charity transparent about that, or are they coy or vague when it comes to how they use the funds? Ideally, the charity shouldn’t spend more than 25 percent of its funds on administrative costs and expenses. If the amount is higher, the charity may not be as efficient. That doesn’t mean you should drop them right away, but it does require a little more in-depth investigation. Find out what’s causing the problem. If it is mismanagement or something else, at least you know before you go elsewhere.