Jackson, Miss–Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann has warned Mississippians to check out the financial practices of charities of choice at the Secretary of State’s website.
Hosemann said Mississippi’s generosity should be utilized carefully and efficiently, with best practices in mind.
“Mississippi is the most giving state in the Nation,” Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann said. “Our goal is to help you make sure your donations reach those who need your generosity the most. Please check your charity at www.sos.ms.gov/charities/ to obtain financial information concerning any registered charity in Mississippi.”
The Council of Better Business Bureaus recommends at least 65% of a charitable organization’s total expenses be spent on program activities directly related to the organization’s purpose.
Charities soliciting funds in Mississippi must be registered with the Secretary of State’s Office. Each year, the Agency publishes a Report on Charitable Organizations in Mississippi. The report outlines the financial information of charities registered in the State, including the percentage of charitable funds actually spent by a charity for its charitable purpose.
For more information, call the Charities Division at (601) 359-1599 orwww.sos.ms.gov/charities/.
