Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere and everyone should take steps to be prepared for the next potential disaster. Frequently, in the aftermath of a disaster, there is an uptick in scams directed at both survivors and people wanting to help.

There are many ways to help, but the easiest way is to make a monetary donation to a reputable charity of choice. Unfortunately, scammers solicit donations to fake charities and can pose as employees of legitimate charities or federal agencies to take advantage of disaster survivors and those trying to help.

Taxpayers donating money should keep a few things in mind:

* Use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool to find or verify qualified charities. Donations to these real charities may be tax deductible.

* Legitimate charities do not ask for gift cards, cash, or wire transfers.

* Always get a receipt and keep a record of the donation.

* Review bank and credit card statements closely to make sure donation amounts are accurate.

Things scammers may do:

* Claim to work for the IRS or another government agency.

* Pose as a representative of a legitimate charity to ask for money or private information from well-intentioned taxpayers.

* May change their caller ID to make it appear they are a legitimate organization calling from a legitimate phone number.

* Make vague and sentimental claims but give no specifics about how your donation will be used.

* Set up bogus websites using names that sound like real charities.

* Bogus organizations often claim a donation is tax deductible when it's not.

Disaster survivors should know:

Disaster survivors can call the IRS disaster assistance line at 866-562-5227. IRS representatives will answer questions about tax relief or disaster-related tax issues.

Donating to a charity is a great way to help others after a disaster or emergency. If taxpayers suspect a scam or fraud, they can report it to the Federal Trade Commission.