DEAR HARRIETTE: I have noticed that many bins have been set up in my city where you can drop off old clothes or accessories. They are from all different companies. I think it's a fantastic idea; it's easier to walk across the street and dump my old stuff than to go across town to the Salvation Army or Goodwill, even though that's what I usually do. Just as I was about to drop off my first package, my friend told me that he saw a report that said some of these bins are scams. He said that some of them are set up by stores that actually gather the items and resell them for high prices. That made me so mad, but I'm not sure if my friend is right. He is no expert. How can I figure it out? -- Wanting to Unload, New York City
DEAR WANTING TO UNLOAD: The best way to verify the type of organization that is collecting items is to research the company before donating your belongings. Typically, those bins will advertise the name of the company that is sponsoring it, and there should be a website and telephone number so that you can reach them.
Do your due diligence so that you can make an informed decision about where to offer your items. Know that the Salvation Army and Goodwill offer tax write-off forms that can be as beneficial to you as your belongings are to them.