This research investigates how perceived economic mobility affects consumers’ engagement in dependency-oriented charitable giving, which provides immediate relief for recipients’ pressing problems rather than empowering recipients with the skills and knowledge to address their own challenges. Through a series of four studies, including an analysis of a representative secondary dataset, the findings reveal that individuals with a higher (vs. lower) perceived economic mobility are less inclined to contribute to dependency-oriented charitable giving, primarily due to diminished empathy towards recipients. Importantly, this research also uncovers a key moderating factor— framing charitable appeals as autonomy-oriented. The moderating effect offers crucial insights and actionable strategies for policy-makers and non-profit organizations seeking to counteract the decline in dependency-oriented charitable giving associated with high perceived economic mobility.