DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – Giving Tuesday is an opportunity for people to spread Christmas cheer by donating to local, state, and national charities. While it is a worthy endeavor, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) wants to warn Michigan residents to keep an eye out for scams.

The BBB offers a set of standards to weigh against the charity to whom your may donate. Among other things, it asks people to consider the charity’s governance, effectiveness, and finances. More information can be found here.

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In addition, the BBB advises taking note of the charity’s name. “Mistaken identity” can occur when a scam organization tweaks a few letters to appear credible, but is otherwise a scam.

If you’re giving to a local organization, consider dropping it off personally. That way, third party collectors don’t get a portion of your generosity.

Before you make a donation, the BBB recommends thorough research, and they want to help. To learn more click here.