Is Tithing Before or After Taxes?
Tithing is a concept in many Christian religions and individual churches that encourages members to make monetary donations. Each Christian denomination has its own policy for tithing, as well as its own way of explaining this policy to its membership. Individual leaders within these churches may impose their own techniques for encouraging a pre-tax contribution.
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Definition
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According to Miami Christian University president Rev. Rick L. Patterson, Th.D., in his article, "The Law of Tithing," the word tithe comes from the ancient Hebrew word "asair," which refers to a gift of one-tenth of something. Some Christian church leaders have taken this to mean that church members should give 10 percent of their incomes, prior to paying income tax, to the church. Church policies or leaders may discuss the process as a means of giving to God, or giving back to the community. In each case members tithe directly to the church administration.
Significance
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Christian churches that encourage tithing may use the money for a variety of purposes. According to CBS News, tithes can make up to 70 percent of a church's income. Tithes go toward funding community outreach programs, foreign missions and everyday church expenses. Churches may allow members to choose among a number of purposes when they tithe by taking up special collections for specific needs or programs. Some churches even encourage members to divide their 10 percent tithe evenly between the church and other charities that embody Christian values. Churches also donate money collected as tithes directly to charities or local agencies that serve those in need.
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Background
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Christian scholars use biblical passages and references to support the notion of tithing. Stories and mandates from the biblical books of Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, Romans, Corinthians and Malachi all refer to the need to make offerings to God or the obligation of charity as a religious act. The definition of tithing and the spiritual consequences are matters of debate among and within Christian churches.
Misconceptions
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Tithing doesn't always mean giving 10 percent of pre-tax income. Some churches simply encourage members to give what they can based on financial ability, and some still use the term tithing despite a lack of any 10-percent mandate. Rev. Patterson notes in his article that his concept of tithing involves giving 10 percent of any financial increases, such as raises, employee benefits and investment gains. CBS News reports that, as of 2008, Christians give an average of 2.5 percent of their income, as opposed to the 10 percent that traditional tithing requests.
Warning
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Assess your personal financial situation before you tithe. Even churches that make tithing a top priority are likely to discourage members from making donations that result in major financial distress such as a foreclosure or repossession of property. If you do tithe in any form, find out if your contribution is tax-deductible. Most monetary donations to religious organizations are, but you must get a receipt for your donation to supply proof to the Internal Revenue Service when you deduct your donation from your taxable income.
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