Questions To Ask Before Giving to a Nonprofit

KIMBERLEE KRUESI, 

THE TIMES-NEWS, TWIN FALLS, IDAHO ON DEC 8, 2013

Getting into the holiday spirit often comes with plenty of opportunity to give to your local charities.

Federal funding cuts and limited grants have forced many charities to rely on year-end donations in order to survive. For individuals, holiday giving is an opportunity to donate to a cause they care about, while securing a last-minute tax break.

But how do you know your money really is going to the charity's mission? Nonprofits are not scrutinized as much by the IRS but the 990 tax forms can be the first clues as to how well an organization manages its funds.

Before you sign over the check, don't be afraid to research the charity in advance. If you don't know if you should give, answer the following five questions.

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