(Photo courtesy of Red Cross)

When Hurricane Sandy left parts of the East Coast in ruins, many thoughtful and generous people did what comes naturally – they gave money to help those in need. Unfortunately, some individuals also did what comes naturally to them – they thought of ways to scam the good souls among us. In fact, many scams have surfaced since the storm struck.

If you decide to donate to the Sandy relief effort, please be cautious by first doing some research on who will receive your money. You may contact our Charities Division for more information on a charity or fundraiser.

Under state law, most individuals and organizations that solicit charitable contributions in Washington must register with the Secretary of State and disclose certain information. You can make sure the charity and/or fundraiser is registered with the Office of Secretary of State by checking online or by calling the Charities toll-free Hotline at 1-800-332-GIVE.

Before you write a check or charge your credit card to any charity, make sure you ask these questions:
• Is the charity or fundraiser registered with the state of Washington?
• What is the name, address and telephone number of the organization asking for the donation?
• Exactly how will the donation be used?
• What percentage of the contribution will actually be spent on the charitable purpose of the organization?

For more giving tips, go here.

On Nov. 29, Secretary of State Sam Reed and Attorney General Rob McKenna are holding a news conference in Seattle to share tips on giving wisely and to unveil the Charities Program’s 2012 Commercial Fundraiser Activity Report, which shows how much money raised by fundraisers actually goes to the intended charities. Go here to view the report for the previous three years.