Today is Giving Tuesday, and if you’re planning to make a charitable donation this holiday season, the Better Business Bureau has some advice worth heeding.

“We know Canadians are very generous people, and now, perhaps more than ever before, charities are counting on donations to carry out the work they do,” says Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen, president and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay. “If you plan to make a gift, take steps to ensure the charity you want to support receives the money to help carry out the mission they intend.”

It starts with getting the exact name of the charity you want to support. Mistaken identity is more common than you’d think — thousands of organizations have “cancer” or “children” in their name with no connection to one another. A few dollars meant for one cause can easily end up somewhere else entirely.

If someone calls or knocks on your door asking for money, don’t feel pressured to give on the spot. Legitimate charities will give you time to think it over. Be cautious of appeals that tug hard at the heartstrings but offer few details about what the organization actually does. It’s fair to ask how and where a charity is doing its work.

Before you donate, check the charity’s website. You should be able to find its mission, programs and financial information. Every registered charity in Canada has a charitable registration number — you can verify it through the Canada Revenue Agency. The BBB Wise Giving Alliance also publishes reports on whether charities meet its standards for accountability.

When you’re ready to give, go directly to the charity’s website rather than clicking links in emails or social media posts. Scammers know that generosity runs high this time of year, and a familiar-sounding name isn’t always the real thing.

A little homework ensures your gift ends up where you want it — doing good in the world.