2025 Report on Charitable Organizations Released in Mississippi
JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Secretary of State’s Office has released the 2025 Report on Charitable Organizations as part of its ongoing Check Your Charity campaign. The annual report provides detailed financial information on registered charities, including total revenue, fundraising expenses, and charitable purpose expenditures.
Secretary of State Michael Watson emphasized the importance of informed giving, especially during the holiday season.
“Mississippians are known for their generosity, but it’s important to remember the wisest giver is an informed giver,” Watson said. “We encourage all citizens to check the validity of a charity or organization before making a donation with their hard-earned money.”
Donation Safety Tips for Mississippians
The Secretary of State’s Office urges residents to follow these guidelines when considering charitable contributions:
- Verify registration: Use the Charities Search portal on the Secretary of State’s website to confirm the organization is registered.
- Ask questions: Request written answers from charities. Legitimate organizations will welcome inquiries.
- Avoid pressure tactics: Take time to evaluate information before donating.
- Watch for similar names: Scam groups often mimic the names of respected charities.
- Be cautious with phone solicitations: Ask for the caller’s name, spelling of the charity, and whether they are a professional fundraiser. Inquire how much of your donation supports the charity’s mission.
- Check expense ratios: Consumer advocates recommend that at least 65 percent of a charity’s total expenses go directly to program activities.
- Always get receipts: Receipts are essential for tax deductions and donation tracking. Donate by credit card or check directly to the charity for added security.
The report reflects financial data on file with the Secretary of State’s Office as of Sept. 30, 2025. For the most current information, residents are encouraged to visit the Charities Search portal online.
For additional assistance, contact the Charities Division at 601-359-1599 or email Charities.customerservice@sos.ms.gov.
