Become an Accredited Charity
Becoming a BBB Accredited Charity is a sign that your organization can be trusted.
What we do
What is charity accountability?
Our charity review program helps local nonprofits demonstrate their commitment to donors and those they serve. The first step in helping BBB tell your story is completing the free evaluation based on the nationally-recognized BBB Wise Giving Alliance Standards for Charity Accountability.
The free evaluation and report will give potential donors and volunteers an idea of how informed your board is, whether or not you review internally, how your funds are used, the truthfulness of your appeals, and how transparent you are. Whether you meet some standards or all 20, you’re telling your story through a neutral and highly trusted third party.
Nonprofits that meet all 20 Standards are recognized as BBB Accredited Charities, representing commitment to the highest standards in ethics and transparency.
how we help
Charity resources
Through the BBB's Charity Review service, we are committed to helping charities succeed and encouraging donors to give, but give wisely. The BBB's Charity Review Program helps your organization do what is important: Foster trust with donors!
Apply today
Charity Seal Licensing
Once you meet all 20 standards, you automatically become a BBB Accredited Charity and are eligible for the BBB Charity Seal Program.
Akron-Summit Age-Friendly program
Highlight your commitment to providing quality and accessible services to older adults.
how we help
Donor resources
Nonprofits serve the needs of our friends and neighbors, often when they are in the most need. BBB’s program assures you that local accredited charities are established and performing best practices.
Give.org National Charity lookup
Give.org allows you to search for local and national charities and learn whether they meet all 20 Standards of Charity Accountability.
Ask about a charity
Have a specific question about a local charity?Contact us directly to let us help you find what you need to know to donate or volunteer with trust.
BBB ScamTracker
BBB Scam Tracker is an online prevention and reporting tool that enables consumers and businesses (as well as donors and charities) to report fraud and fraud attempts.
Local charities
BBB Charity Sealholders
Local charities
Accredited Charities
need more help?
Additional resources
BBB Wise Giving Alliance
20 Standards for Charity Accountability
Whether the report shows you meet some standards or all 20, you’re telling your story through BBB – a neutral and highly trusted third party.
BBB Wise Giving Alliance
Tips for Donors
BBB Wise Giving Alliance
News & Updates
Ohio attorney general
Charitable Ohio
Ohio Secretary of State
Starting a Nonprofit
