Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has reissued a consumer alert to guide residents in making informed decisions when donating this Giving Tuesday. The alert emphasizes the importance of asking pertinent questions before contributing money, time, or belongings to any charity. Key questions include understanding how much of a donation will support the charity's mission and verifying if the charity is registered with the Michigan Attorney General's office.

"On Giving Tuesday, many Michiganders generously donate their time and money to charities that do important work in our communities," said Nessel. "To ensure your donations are used wisely and not lining the pockets of scam artists, consider these simple steps before giving this holiday season."

Residents can verify an organization's status on the Attorney General's website or by calling 517-335-7571. While not all organizations need to register, legitimate charities must have IRS 501(c)(3) status for gifts to be tax-deductible. The IRS Select Check tool is available for searching 501(c)(3) organizations.

For complaints about solicitations, consumers can contact the Attorney General's Charitable Trust Section at:

Department of Attorney General

Charitable Trust Section

P.O. Box 30214

Lansing, MI 48909

517-335-7571

Fax: 517-241-7074