Connecticut's Department of Consumer Protection is urging businesses to verify whether charities are legitimate before allowing them to solicit donations on their property.
Commissioner Michelle Seagull says her agency often sees people outside stores impersonating charities. She says consumers often have little to no idea if an organization asking for donations outside a mall, department store or grocery store is legitimate.
Retailers can verify if a charity is registered with the state by visiting www.elicense.ct.gov and clicking on "Lookup a License" at the bottom of the page. All charities soliciting in Connecticut must be registered with the Department of Consumer Protection.
The agency also suggests retailers ask for a copy of the charity's registration to keep on file and ask questions about the charity's upcoming and past projects.
