Automated Giving
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9: 7, 8 (NIV)
Getting Started
The automatic giving process . . .
There are 3 steps to signing up to give through Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT). It’s simple and secure: all you’ll need are a few minutes to go through the process . . .
1. Complete the agreement form.
2. Attach a voided check.
3. Return the completed form to Topeka Bible Church to the attention of Doug Will.
FAQs About Automated Giving . . .
Q: How can funds be withdrawn directly from my account?
Only with your authorization. No one can deduct money from your account automatically unless you specifically authorize it.
Q: Are electronic contributions risky?
No. An electronic contribution is safer than writing a check, and it can’t be lost, stolen, or destroyed in the mail. All Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) transactions are governed by strict national rules and guidelines. Over four billion EFT transactions are processed annually in the United States.
Q: When would automatic contributions be taken from my account?
Funds will be taken from your account once or twice per month, on the 1st and/or 15th. If either of these dates fall on a non-business day, it will take effect the following business day. The same is true of months without 30 days.
Q: If I don’t write checks, how do I keep my checkbook balance straight?
Your contribution is made on a pre-established date, so you can deduct it from your check record then.
Q: What if I change banks or accounts or want to change the amount of my contribution?
You can download and complete another form to reflect your changes.
Q: Is there any charge to me from my bank?
No. Electronic fund transfers carry no bank fees.
Q: Why can’t I give by credit card?
We chose to set up automatic giving through electronic fund transfer rather than credit card for two primary reasons:
• With EFT, your entire gift goes to the church. When using a credit card, as much as 3% of your gift would go to the credit card company.
• Although many pay off their credit cards each month, many also do not. We don’t want to potentially put someone in the place of going in debt and paying credit interest on gifts given to the church.
Q: How can I keep a record of the amount I have contributed?
Your bank statement will include an itemized list of automatic gifts given from your account. You will also receive a record of any payments $250.00 or greater after the end of the year to confirm your contributions.
Q: Who do I talk to if I have more questions?
Contact Doug Will at Topeka Bible Church, 785-234-5545 or by e-mail at doug@discovertbc.com
Benefits to Automatic Giving . . .
1. You are taking a step of faith.
When you sign up to give through Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), you are deciding in advance to faithfully give. God always blesses that kind of faith!
2. You will simplify your life.
You won’t have to remember whether you gave this month or need to send an offering by mail when you’re on a trip.
3. You will be helping the church.
Every person who gives through automatic giving makes our recordkeeping much easier.
4. You can focus on worship.
Instead of having to get out a pen and write out an envelope and check, you can focus on God during the service.
Download the Automated Giving Form