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BBB Reminds Residents to Research Charities Carefully Before Making Any Veterans Day Donations

Wednesday, November 11th, 2026 -- 10:01 AM

Veterans Day on Nov. 11 is an opportunity to support military service members, veterans and their families.

Before donating, BBB encourages consumers to research charities carefully to make sure their contributions support the causes they intend to help. BBB Scam Tracker receives reports about organizations that use questionable tactics to solicit donations. Some groups present themselves as charities even when contributions are not tax-deductible or may not be used as donors expect.

How the scam works

You receive an unsolicited phone call from someone claiming to represent a nonprofit organization. The group might use a name that includes words such as "police" or trooper to sound legitimate.

The caller asks for a donation and might use emotional appeals or pressure tactics to convince you to give. A previous BBB investigation into one fraudulent charity fund identified concerns about its transparency, including limited information about its leadership and chapters.

Tax records also indicated that only a small portion of contributions supported the organization to which it claimed to donate funds. The investigation illustrates why it is important to research an organization before donating.

If you ask how donations are used or request information about the organization, the caller may avoid answering your questions or direct you to another number. Some callers may also try to make you feel guilty for hesitating. Do not let pressure tactics rush your decision.

How to avoid charity scams

  • Verify the organization. Similar names can make it difficult to tell charities apart. Check the organization through BBB's Give.org before donating.
  • Research its mission. Review the charity's website and annual report to understand its programs, finances and how donations are used. BBB's veteran charity resources can help you learn more.
  • Be cautious of phone solicitations. Ask how donations support the organization's programs. If the caller avoids your questions or pressures you to give, end the call.
  • Do not donate under pressure. Take time to research the organization and decide whether you want to contribute. A legitimate fundraiser should allow you time to make an informed decision.
  • Understand how donated goods are used. If you give clothing or other items, ask whether they will be distributed directly or sold to raise funds.

For more information: To assist donors, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, the standards-based charity evaluator, has compiled a list of nationally-soliciting veterans and military service charities that meet all 20 of the BBB Standards for Charity Accountability.

For more information or further inquiries, contact the Wisconsin BBB at www.bbb.org/wisconsin, 414-847-6000 or 1-800-273-1002. Consumers also can find more information about how to protect themselves from scams by following the Wisconsin BBB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.