Source URL

http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/nwsrm/txtps/2012/tt121211-eng.html

Disclaimer

We do not guarantee the accuracy of this copy of the CRA website.

Scraped Page Content

Donate wisely: Take time to learn about a charity before you donate

Archived content

Information identified as archived is provided for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please contact us to request a format other than those available.

Archived

This page has been archived on the Web.

Did you know?

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) regulates more than 85,000 registered charities in Canada, and has online tools to help you learn more about them before you make your donation!

Important facts

Check to see if your charity is registered with the CRA. Go to www.cra.gc.ca/charitylists or call us at 1-800-267-2384.
Beware of charitable donation schemes that promise you tax savings greater than your initial donation amount. Remember the motto that if it sounds too good to be true – it probably is.
Some fraudulent charities take names that are very similar to other well-known legitimate charities in order to get your donations.
Do not make a donation if you feel inappropriate pressure to give immediately, if you are offered a receipt for more than you actually donate, or if there are other signs of fraud.
Report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501.
Only registered charities and other qualified donees can issue receipts that can be used for income tax purposes. Be aware of possible donation schemes, including those that promise you returns greater than your initial donation amount. For more information, please see The Canada Revenue Agency: protecting Canadians from gifting tax shelter schemes.

Learn more

Go to www.cra.gc.ca/donors, call 1‑800‑267‑2384, or watch the Giving to Registered Charities 101 videos on the CRA YouTube channel.