If you’re looking for a way to give back this Memorial Day, consider writing a personal check to support Veteran causes. You’ll be happy to find out that there are ways to make a difference and donate to deserving charities, while still being financially conscious. As you continue reading, we will cover some helpful tips for donating this Memorial Day so everyone wins.
1. Select the Right Charity
Before you write out the check, you’ll need to do some research to ensure that your money is going to a reputable charity. There are tons of veteran-focused charities out there, though not all of them are allocating funds appropriately to those in need.
It’s a good idea to seek out reputable charities so you know that your donation is being put to good use. As you’re researching these organizations, make sure you are evaluating their transparency, financial accountability, and mission alignment with your own.
2. Assess Their Impact & Effectiveness
During your research process, you’ll also want to evaluate the charity’s impact and effectiveness. Check to see if they have metrics available showcasing their success and how they’re working to achieve their promoted mission.
A reputable non-profit should have transparency about how their funds are being utilized, which can help you determine if their effectiveness meets your personal standards. If you do the proper research and only support organizations with a proven track record, you can trust that your financial donation will make a difference.
3. Determine How to Allocate Your Funds
Another financially-conscious way to donate is to consider allocating the funds to areas that are aligned with your personal priorities. This means choosing between a local charity that you can directly see the impacts of or choosing a national organization that has a larger footprint.
In some cases, you can even specify how you want your donation to be used, such as mental health support, education programs, or housing assistance. By doing so, you can ensure that your contribution directly supports the causes that matter the most to you, enhancing the impact of your donation.
4. Enjoy Tax Write-offs
One great advantage of donating is the potential tax write-off benefit. If you are making contributions to eligible non-profit organizations, you may qualify for certain tax deductions. For more personalized details as it relates to your donations and tax situation, you’ll want to consult with a tax professional. But, by taking advantage of these benefits, you can optimize your contributions while making a difference for the charitable causes you’re donating to.
5. Use Checks
You should consider using personal checks when making donations. This is a good and financially-conscious move because it creates a transparent and traceable record of your contribution. Later in the year as you go to claim a tax deduction for your donation, you’ll have clear documentation about the donations you made throughout the year.
Plus, using a personal check to send donations eliminates any transaction fees related to online or credit card donations, ensuring that more of your donation goes directly to the cause you’re supporting.
For holidays dedicated to service member recognition, such as Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day, consider showing your support with American Flag checks.
Explore Veteran Causes
Looking for charities that support our service members?
View a few of our selections below. 
The Bob Woodruff Family Foundation offers housing, legal services, and food banks to veterans, including programs that address fertility and other scientific issues faced by post-9/11 veterans.
Operation Homefront addresses the critical needs of veterans through financial assistance, transitional housing, and caregiver support programs to prevent short-term money problems from growing into larger issues.
The Air Warrior Courage Foundation helps surviving families of lost air fighters in the Vietnam War through financial support and services, programs to remember deceased veterans, and scholarship programs.