In order to ensure that charitable dollars are put to good use, donors should plan their giving and demand detailed information about the organizations soliciting their support.

Some basic tips to consider when making charitable donations include:

• Do not give cash; always make contributions by check and make your check payable to the charity not to the individual collecting the donation.
  
  
• Keep records of your donations (receipts, canceled checks, and bank statements) so you can document your charitable giving at tax time. Although the value of your time as a volunteer is not deductible, out-of-pocket expenses (including transportation costs) directly related to volunteer service for a charity are deductible.
  
  
• Don’t be fooled by names that look impressive or that closely resemble the name of a well-known organization.
  
  
• Check out the organization with the Better Business Bureau, and remember that charities in Texas are not strictly regulated.
  
  
• Never give out your credit card or checking account number or any other personal information to an unfamiliar charity.