Jordan, I know that manual verification grind well. API solutions like Nonprofit Check Plus or CharityAPI can verify EIN and tax status instantly, often with a free tier.

Michael, this is a worrying catch. I have always just pointed people to the IRS sample policy, assuming it was a safe template. Now I feel a bit silly for it.

The distinction between “interested person” and “disqualified person” is subtle but important.

Thanks for sharing. It has genuinely made me rethink my own advice.

It is so hard to know who to trust just from social media.

My personal rule of thumb is to check the IRS tool first to confirm they are legit. Then I look at Charity Navigator to see how much of my money actually goes to the programmes, not admin. That is usually the deciding factor for me.

It takes a few minutes, but it gives me real peace of mind.