Corporate Donation Roundup Truths

Over the past decade or so, corporations have REALLY taken on the practice of rounding up to donate to charity. Why? Well, it helps two major parts of a corporation. Now, let's not forget there is absolutely a great reason behind it. Donating to charities that actually help society is one of the best things you can do (next to physically getting involved yourself, especially with healanxiety.org!) But, is there an ulterior motive? Perhaps these are just added benefits, but hopefully it will make you think twice before donating straight to the charity! First, cash flow. With thousands of people donating the roundups, it helps with their cashflow. They never say when they will donate, and it could be yearly. So, for up to 11 months, they can use that money to help run their business, invest it, and help themselves grow before they send it off to the charity. Depending on the company, that could be millions used before the donation. They take your money, invest it, then donate it! The next is the public relations. They collect $.50 per person and it adds up to millions. Then they make a big PR stint and get all sorts of publicity for donating to their charity. That money that came from their customers. I find this a bit entertaining. Now, they do not get the tax benefit from your donation, but on top of their goodwill those are some pretty awesome perks! Should you save your money and donate it straight to charity? That's up to you, but I certainly do not roundup. No matter how much guilt they try to put on me, I'll take care of my own contributions.