Jane Hercules

End of Tax Year Donations - Cautions



Posted: Saturday, November 27, 2010

by Jane Hercules
http://www.lockthemailbox.com

Here we are again at the end of a tax year. With charities asking for your used and unwanted items more than ever before, and the economy being like it is this year, you want to be a part of helping out the needy people in your community.

You may be considering giving away a vehicle, or clothing, or electronic devices. You have items your kids have grown out of just taking up space in your home. Be aware of how to make these sorts of gifts. Protect yourself while you are getting things ready to give away.

When donating a vehicle be sure to do so with a legal transfer of title to the charity or individual who will be using it. Clean out all items containing personal information. Take out oil change and maintenance receipts. Check to see that no gas or credit cards have fallen under the seats and that the glove compartment contains only a manual, not your name and address.

It is a good feeling to think of someone getting to wear you outgrown clothing. Just be sure to check out all the pockets and go through purses and backpacks to remove everything that could identify you. Even one little receipt could end up causing misery for you.

It is satisfying to think of someone in need getting to wear your outgrown or unwanted clothing. Examine the pockets of these items and also go through purses and backpacks and empty them too. A carelessly left credit card receipt left in a donated coat or jeans pocket could actually be your own undoing.

Kiddos grow up and leave you with all those toys and especially baby equipment. This stuff is still in good condition. Yet, it takes up a lot of space in your home. Your closets, attic, basement and garage may be full of gently used products. Your intent is not to injure anyone. Watch out! The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has just today reports recalls on certain lamps, bicycles and baby equipment. Recall reports come out weekly or even daily citing injuries and even death or children because of defective cribs and strollers.

We replace our electronics pretty often for the new and better models. If you are considering getting rid or cell phones or computers or fax machines, wipe them clean. The more sophisticated criminals may ruin you financially with information located on discarded electronics.

If send a check through the mail to a charity you want to support, just don't leave it in your outgoing mail. Criminals can chemically wash a check and use if for whatever they choose.

It is the American way to help each other in difficult times. Remember to do so in ways that also protect you and your family. You are acting with pure intent. Some, sadly, do not. You have worked hard for you assets and for your family's future. The Federal Trade Commission has a video about how people feel when their identities are stolen.

This year, as you are taking care of other people, take care of yourself. Your security is up to you.

identity theft
Jane Hercules is a teacher in public schools and works with young children in the private sector. She has a concern with the many current reports of identity theft, mail theft and mailbox vandalism in America today. In the economy of today, Jane seeks to help families secure their personal information and their assets.

Jane is the mother of four and grandmother of nine and lives in Texas, the land of big skies and big opportunities.

locking mailboxes

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