How to verify the credibility of an NGO

Verifying the credibility of an NGO is crucial before donating, volunteering, or partnering. Here’s a practical and reliable method to do so, whether you're evaluating a global or local NGO:

✅ How to Verify the Credibility of an NGO
🧾 1. Check Legal Registration
A legitimate NGO must be legally registered in its operating country.

Ask for their registration number or certificate.

Verify it through the national NGO portal or charity regulator.

Examples:

India – NGO DARPAN

USA – IRS Exempt Organization Search

UK – Charity Commission

Canada – Canada Revenue Agency

📊 2. Review Financial Transparency
Credible NGOs openly share their financials and spending habits.

Look for:

Audited annual financial reports

Breakdown of program vs. admin costs

Source of funding (grants, donations, corporate, etc.)

Red flag: If an NGO refuses to share financial info, that's a warning sign.

📈 3. Evaluate Program Impact
Credible NGOs show results, not just intentions.

Ask for or check:

Impact reports or statistics from recent projects

Independent evaluations or third-party audits

Success stories from beneficiaries, not just donors

Example question to ask them:
"How do you measure the success of your programs?"

🌐 4. Verify Online Reputation
Use trusted websites or tools to see how the NGO is viewed:

Tool/Platform Purpose
Charity Navigator Rates US-based NGOs for accountability & finance
GuideStar Offers profiles, 990 forms, and reviews
GiveWell Recommends highly effective global charities
GreatNonprofits User reviews of charities

Also:

Google the NGO name + "scam" or "controversy"

Check media coverage and watchdog reports

👥 5. Check Governance and Leadership
Credible NGOs are run by transparent, qualified leadership.

Look for:

A named Board of Directors or trustees

Clear staff roles with relevant experience

No evidence of nepotism or misuse of power

💬 6. Contact the NGO Directly
Reach out with specific questions. A credible NGO should be:

Responsive

Willing to provide documents (impact reports, financials, evaluations)

Clear in their mission and methods

🚫 Red Flags (Watch Out For):
No registration or unverifiable legal status

Missing or outdated website/social media presence

No details about leadership or staff

Unverifiable claims like "we helped millions" without data

Poor reviews or involvement in past scandals

🔍 Bonus: Use Third-Party Watchdogs
International NGO Accountability Charter – Lists NGOs committed to global accountability

Effective Altruism Funds – Lists vetted, high-impact charities

Better Business Bureau (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance – For U.S.-based charities