BOSTON -- 'Tis the season to be charitable, but as NewsCenter 5's Consumer reporter Susan Wornick reported, to be a smart giver, it's worth it to do a little homework first.

Charities depend on your holiday spirit and need you to be generous, but there are five things to do before giving:

First of all, check out the charity. Log on to charitynavigator.org where you can find organizations by category, name, and specific area. You can find out how they spend their money, how they're rated and how they compare to similar charities.

If you want to donate goods or cash, visit Commonwealth 5. We've done the work for you and you'll find only reputable organizations there.

Another option is the Attorney General's office. To collect legally in Massachusetts, organizations must file annual reports saying how much they raise and what portion really goes to the people they're trying to help.

Always ask telemarketers to send you more information. Do not give out credit card numbers or bank information over the phone.

Don't agree if the caller wants to come right over to pick up the donation. That's not how legitimate charities usually work. If someone calls from your local police or fire department, you're probably talking to a telemarketer who may keep a big portion of your donation. If you want to donate to public safety, do so by taking a check to the chief.