Charity Ratings Explained: Stars and Scores

Charity Navigator stars: 0-4 based on financials + accountability, 4 stars = top 25%, doesn't measure impact. GuideStar seals: Bronze (basic info), Silver (financials), Gold (metrics), Platinum (progress). GiveWell top charities: Evidence of impact, cost-effectiveness, funding capacity, only 8 qualify. BBB accreditation: 20 standards pass/fail. Use multiple for full picture.