How to Verify a Charity’s Credentials Quickly

Verification confirms identity and legal status so funds reach the right organisation.

• Check official registers and cross‑match application data.
• Confirm trustees, filings and governing documents.
• Record the checks you perform and any discrepancies.

Registers and documents

Start with authoritative sources and recent filings.

• The charity register that governs the applicant: the Charity Commission (or OSCR/CCNI) in the UK, the IRS Form 990 series in the US, and 49 more countries.
• The company register — Companies House in the UK — for charitable companies and CICs.
• Governing document and bank details that match records.

Key takeaway: use primary sources first, then supporting evidence.

Automating lookups

Save time by standardising and automating routine checks.

• Pull records by number and compare to the application.
• Flag mismatches for review rather than auto‑rejecting.
• Store snapshots for your audit trail.

Key takeaway: Plinth makes verification fast and consistent.

Handling discrepancies

Most mismatches are honest mistakes.

• Ask for clarification with specific examples.
• Confirm updated details before payment.
• Record rationale for accepting corrections.

Key takeaway: a calm, proportionate approach speeds resolutions.

FAQs

What if the organisation is unregistered?

Some are not required to register; apply alternative checks proportionately.

Do we need bank letters?

For higher‑risk payments, yes; otherwise use safer alternatives.

How often should we re‑check?

At key milestones or before large payments.