Tis the season to be jolly - and generous.

This time of year generous Lexington County residents open their hearts and wallets for others.

Unfortunately, a few people and charities are eager to take advantage of your generosity.

All of them can paint a pitiful picture of those in need.

But will they deliver the help they are promising?

How do you know which are good and which are bad?

Secretary of State Mark Hammond annually publishes a report on known charities.

The report defines them as Angels and Scrooges.

It shows what percentage of their revenue really goes to recipients.

Charity Navigator is another tool. They call themselves “America’s largest charity evaluator.”

It gives each charity an overall score and shows what percentage of revenue goes to recipients. The site also provides a link directly to the charity, making it easier to donate.

GuideStar is similar to Charity Navigator. It gives financial information and organization details for the charity.

The Wise Giving Alliance was created by The Better Business Bureau.

It evaluates and rates charities based own their own 20 “Standards for Charity Accountability.”

Consumer Reports has also researched the “Charity Watchdogs” and has come up with of the best charities to give to.

Charity Watch is another option.

The IRS has a list of charities that are qualified for a tax deduction.

The New York Times and US News have published articles about avoiding scams and phony charities.

Words to the wise: Do a little homework before you open your checkbook.