Give Smart
Giving to Veterans' Causes: How to Help and Avoid Sound-Alike Charities
Americans want to thank those who served. That goodwill is exactly what dishonest fundraisers count on. A little checking makes sure your gift reaches veterans and their families.
Check veterans charities extra carefully
In 2018, the FTC and state regulators announced a nationwide sweep, "Operation Donate with Honor," against fake veterans charities that collected money and spent little or none of it helping veterans. It was a reminder that a flag and the word "veterans" in a name prove nothing.
- Confirm it in the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search, using the EIN.
- Read the Form 990. What programs does it actually run? How much goes to outside fundraisers? (See How to Read a Form 990.)
- Watch for sound-alike names that echo well-known veterans organizations.
- Be wary of phone appeals from paid solicitors. Ask what share reaches the charity, then give directly if you still want to.
- Ask local veterans. Veterans' service officers, VFW and American Legion posts, and military family groups know who actually shows up.
Charity or veterans organization?
Not every veterans group is a 501(c)(3). Many posts and associations are veterans organizations under section 501(c)(19). Contributions to qualifying veterans organizations can be deductible, but check each group's status in the IRS search before you assume.
Volunteer through the VA
VA Voluntary Service places volunteers at VA medical centers, clinics, community living centers and national cemeteries. Depending on your location, you might:
- Drive veterans to medical appointments.
- Greet and guide visitors, or deliver comfort items.
- Help at recreation programs and holiday events.
- Take part in honor guards or memorial events at national cemeteries.
Contact the voluntary service office at your nearest VA facility, or start at volunteer.va.gov. Expect an application, orientation and sometimes a background check and health screening.
Help close to home
- Know your neighbors. A ride, a meal or yard help for an older veteran or a military spouse during deployment means a lot.
- Support local posts and their community programs.
- Hire veterans if you run a business, and ask about local veteran job programs.
- Record their stories. Oral history projects preserve veterans' memories for the next generation.
- Donate goods only on request. Ask what a shelter or VA facility actually needs before collecting items.
If a veteran is in crisis
The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day: dial 988 and press 1, or text 838255. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits to call.
Check a veterans charity now
Run it through our 12-point Charity Check.
Questions people ask
How do I know a veterans charity is real?
Look it up in the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search, read its Form 990 to see how much goes to programs, check your state's charity office, and look for an independent review. Be cautious with names that sound official or nearly match a well-known group.
How can I volunteer at a VA hospital?
Through VA Voluntary Service. Contact the voluntary service office at your local VA medical center or start at volunteer.va.gov. Roles range from driving veterans to appointments to greeting visitors and helping at events.
Are veterans service organizations charities?
Some are 501(c)(3) charities; many are veterans organizations under a different section, 501(c)(19). Gifts to qualifying veterans organizations can be deductible. The IRS search shows each organization's status.
Sources
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change and situations differ; check the sources above or ask a tax professional before you rely on a specific number.