Giving FAQS
Why Give Online?
On a practical level, we recognize that forms of payment have steadily evolved from cash to checks to card-based transactions. Many people primarily manage their finances online. Bellingham Covenant Church encourages responsible giving that does not create debt for the giver.
Furthermore, online giving is a powerful way to faithfully offer your gifts. With the ability to set up recurring gifts, you are able to consistently give, even when you forget your checkbook at home.
What type of bank accounts can I use?
You can use a checking account, a credit or debit card, Google Pay, or Apple Pay.
What are the online giving transaction FEES?
Giving online incurs small transaction fees. You have the option of paying these fees yourself; they will be deducted from your donation by the payment processor. In any event, your donation receipt will recognize the full amount of your payment. To pay the fees yourself, check the box at the lower right of the donation page. Here is an outline of the transaction fees associated with the various forms of the onlune payment:
If you make a gift and pay with…
An online check (ACH), then the cost is $0.30 + 0.00%
Credit/debit cards, then the cost is $0.30 + 2.15%
*Note that fees will vary depending on the gift amount. Online checks generally minimize the transaction fee. As an example, an online gift of $100 has the following fee:
$0.30 for an online check
$2.45 for Credit/Debit cards
Online Check: For most gifts, an online check is easy and cost-effective. ACH is a direct transfer from your checking or savings account. All you need is a check to determine the routing code and account number. An online check is the most cost-effective online option. As an alternative, many banks offer this service through their own websites, usually at no cost to you or the church.
Credit/Debit Card: Giving via a credit/debit card is easy and efficient, and probably the most familiar online giving option for you. All you need is the information on the card.
If I want to set up a recurring gift, what are my options for the frequency of my gift?
For recurring gifts, you have the option of giving weekly, monthly, or annually.
Can I designate my gift to a particular cause?
You can allocate your gift toward any or all of the church funds, including the General Fund and several special-purpose funds. You may add a note in the memo field to provide further instructions regarding your intended use ot hte donation. Bear in mind that the church will seek to honor your wishes but may use the money for other purposes if church leadership determines it is necessary.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
BCC is a qualified religious organization under IRS rules. Your donation may or may not be a deductible expense for federal income tax purposes. Unrestricted donations are generally deductible. Donations designated to be used for a particular person or where a tangible good is received in exchange for the donation (e.g., youth retreat fees, Easter tulip purchase, etc.) are generally NOT deductible. Please consult your tax advisor, as the IRS rules apply.
How would I give to both the general fund and the building fund?
It is best if you create two separate transactions.
Is it possible to give to both the general fund and the building fund in one transaction?
Yes. Simply write a special note on how you would like the gift allocated. For example, you could give $100 to the ‘General Fund’ and write a note to divide it equally (or whatever) between general and building funds.
When will I receive a receipt?
For each online gift you make, you will receive a receipt for your tax records. The receipt will be delivered via email moments after your gift has been given.
You will also receive a receipt for your records of any events or retreats that you’ve registered to attend, and also payments made to student accounts for upcoming ministry trips.
How can I view my giving history?
You can see your online giving history by logging into your account here. At the bottom of the page, click “My Giving " and then click on ‘Donation History.”
Why am I redirected to another website?
Online giving to Bellingham Covenant Church is hosted by Church Center, our church management software. Payments are processed by Stripe. Stripe is an industry-leading payment processor that complies with the highest standards to ensure the integrity of the transaction and the safety of your personal financial data. This is a secure website and a clearinghouse to help process online donations.
Is it safe to give online?
Yes. The electronic signup is done using 128-bit encryption for the highest level of security. Credit Card and eCheck information is encrypted to the latest PCI security standards.
I have additional questions about online giving that have not been addressed.
Who can I talk to?
For any questions, concerns, or comments about the online giving system, please contact us at finance@bellinghamcov.org. You will receive a response from our staff as soon as possible.