Your generosity fuels our mission to help those in need, and we understand how important it is for you to feel confident in your contributions. The Donor Bill of Rights serves as a standard framework to protect your interests as a donor, ensuring that you are well-informed and supported throughout your donation process.
This page will guide you through the essential rights outlined in the Donor Bill of Rights, helping you know what to expect from us as a charity. It’s our commitment to uphold these rights, creating an environment of trust, transparency, and respect for your generosity.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Review Our Mission Statement
Visit our website to read about CarLift Utah's mission and the impact of your donation. Understanding our goals helps clarify how your contribution is utilized to support individuals in need.
Check Our Board of Directors
We provide a list of our board members on our website. Knowing who leads our organization offers you insight into our governance and accountability, ensuring decisions align with our mission.
Access Financial Statements
Find our financial information and tax documents, including Form 990, on our website. This transparency allows you to see how donations are spent and our financial health as a nonprofit.
Request a Timely 1098-C Receipt
After donating, you should receive a 1098-C form reflecting the fair market value of your vehicle. If this doesn’t arrive promptly, reach out for assistance. This form confirms your tax deduction eligibility.
Look for High Standards of Ethics
Ensure that we respect your decisions and never pressure you to donate immediately. We believe in informed choices and will provide any information you need to make a confident decision about your donation.
Positive signals (green flags)
✓ Clear Mission Statement
We proudly display our mission statement on our website, providing clarity about our goals and how your donation makes a difference in the community.
✓ Publicly Available Financial Documents
CarLift Utah provides access to our financial statements and tax forms on our website, ensuring you can review how donations are managed and allocated.
✓ Responsive Communication
We encourage you to reach out with questions and ensure prompt responses. Open lines of communication are a hallmark of a trustworthy charity.
✓ Adherence to Ethical Standards
We align with the Donor Bill of Rights and publicly commit to these principles, demonstrating our dedication to upholding ethical fundraising practices.
Warning signals (red flags)
⚠ Pressure Tactics
If you feel rushed or pressured for an immediate donation, it’s a red flag. A legitimate charity respects your need to consider your contribution carefully.
⚠ Misleading Tax Deduction Claims
Be cautious of any organization that guarantees a specific tax deduction amount. The IRS requires that you determine the vehicle's fair market value, and we can help you with that process.
⚠ Lack of Transparency
If a charity does not openly provide its mission statement, financial statements, or board member information, it raises concerns about their accountability and ethical practices.
⚠ Limited Contact Options
Watch for charities that don't offer multiple ways to connect or ask questions. Accessible communication channels demonstrate a commitment to transparency and donor care.
Tools + resources
- https://apps.irs.gov/app/eos
- https://charitynavigator.org
- https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits
- https://bbb.org/charity-reviews
- https://www.afpglobal.org
- https://www.aafrc.org
Salt Lake City state-level oversight
In Salt Lake City, you can verify charities by checking the Utah Department of Commerce Charitable Registry, which provides a list of registered organizations. Additionally, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers charity reviews, ensuring you can make informed decisions. Local nonprofit associations also provide resources to help you understand the landscape of charitable organizations in the area, further empowering your ability to donate wisely.