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Rhonda Dunaway

The 2022 Mississippi Report on Charitable Organizations

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The 2022 Mississippi Report on Charitable Organizations

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by Rhonda Dunaway • Published on • Comments
Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson
sos.ms.gov
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Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson has published online the 2022 Mississippi Report on Charitable Organizations. It includes information about methods used by phone and email scammers to trick people into giving to phony charities. Then there is a list of charities that have been verified by Watson's office. The list gives the total revenue and the total expenses for each charity, and includes the amount spent on charitable purposes.

Watson says criminals like to prey on the charity and polite manners of Mississippians and he strongly advises people to take time to research an organization before giving to them. Also, he advises people to think about using a credit card.

"We know that a lot of times, now, credit card companies will help you fight fraudulent charges," Watson points out. "I encourage folks to have that paper trail. Again, make sure you do your research. Do not get in a hurry. Reputable charities will give you an explanation of exactly what they're doing. They will give you answers in writing. They want to make sure that you trust the charity that you think you are giving to."

Watson's office wants to know immediately about scams and says anyone who has been scammed can contact them or the attorney general's office. Watson says the report has tips on avoiding scams and said, "Never give your personal information away. 

"That's a clear sign of a possible scam. A reputable charity is not going to ask you for your personal information. So, make sure you're doing your homework. If you see something again or if you feel 'this may not be right' ask a name, ask a number, do your research," he says and adds that you can call them back once you have verified they are a charity in good standing.

Watson says when judging a charity, look at administrative costs, which should not exceed 35%. And look for those charities that are spending at least 65% of funds raised on the charitable purposes.