How to Stop Sponsoring a Compassion Child
Navigate the process of ending your Compassion International child sponsorship with our clear, practical guide.
Child sponsorship organizations connect donors with children in need, providing support for education, health, and development. Compassion International is one such organization, facilitating long-term relationships between sponsors and children globally. While these sponsorships create meaningful connections, circumstances may arise where a sponsor needs to discontinue their support. This article guides individuals through the process of ending a child sponsorship with Compassion International.
Preparing to End Your Sponsorship
Before contacting Compassion International to cancel a child sponsorship, gathering specific account information streamlines the process. You will need your unique sponsor identification number, which helps the organization quickly locate your records. This number is typically found on correspondence from Compassion International, such as donation receipts, annual statements, or personalized letters. Your online account portal also displays this identifier prominently.
Additionally, having the sponsored child’s identification number is beneficial. This child ID is usually present on the child’s photo, letters you receive from the child, and within your online account dashboard. Ensuring both your sponsor ID and the child’s ID are readily accessible before initiating contact allows Compassion International representatives to efficiently process your request and verify your account details, reducing potential delays.
Steps to Cancel Your Sponsorship
Once your account details are prepared, you can formally cancel your sponsorship with Compassion International. The most direct method for cancellation is to call their sponsor relations department. When contacting them by phone, be prepared to provide your sponsor ID and the child’s ID to verify your account. Their phone lines typically operate during standard business hours, such as Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM in various time zones.
Alternatively, you may manage your sponsorship through Compassion International’s online portal. Navigate to sections such as “My Account,” “Contact Us,” or a dedicated “Manage Sponsorship” area within your logged-in profile. Look for options related to modifying or ending your support. Sending a written request via mail is another option; however, this method generally incurs longer processing times. Regardless of the method chosen, always request a confirmation of your cancellation, such as a confirmation number for phone calls or an email confirmation for online or mailed requests.
Post-Cancellation Information
Once you have initiated the cancellation of your child sponsorship, there are a few important details regarding the processing and what you can expect next. Compassion International typically processes cancellation requests within 7 to 10 business days. During this period, any recurring automatic payments associated with your sponsorship will be stopped, ensuring no further deductions are made from your designated payment method. You will no longer be eligible to claim charitable contribution deductions for these specific payments on your income tax return.
Following the processing of your cancellation, you should receive final communication from Compassion International, such as a confirmation letter or email, formalizing the conclusion of your sponsorship. This communication serves as your official record that the sponsorship has ended. Upon a sponsorship ending, Compassion International works diligently to find a new sponsor for the child to ensure their continued participation in the program and uninterrupted support for their development.