Professional fundraisers retained 25% of all charitable campaign donations, up from 17% in 2023, according to a new report released by the New York Attorney General's office.
In the holiday season of giving, New York Attorney General Letitia James released the latest Pennies for Charity report, an annual look at how professional fundraisers performed on behalf of nonprofits in 2024. The report reviews campaign filings submitted to the Charities Bureau and offers guidance to help New Yorkers protect their wallets during the busy holiday giving season.
New York has more than 102,000 registered charities, and many rely on for-profit fundraising firms for support. Those fundraisers must register with the state and report their campaign earnings and expenses.
“New Yorkers give generously to charities to support causes they care about, and they should know that their donations are being used responsibly,” James said in a statement.
The new report, which analyzes 2024 results, shows that fundraisers retained one quarter of every dollar donated to the charities that hired them, more than $395 million in fees and expenses.
Across 588 campaigns reviewed, charities received 75% of contributions, down from 83% the previous year. Half of all campaigns delivered less than 50% of funds raised to the charity. In 104 campaigns, expenses exceeded revenue, costing organizations more than $20 million.
To help donors navigate the season safely, the report outlines steps to take before giving by phone, mail or online. Key reminders include verifying who is calling during telemarketing appeals, checking mailed solicitations for legitimacy, confirming online campaigns are authorized by the named charity, reviewing fees on fundraising platforms and ensuring websites are secure before entering payment information.
