How to Deal With Restricted Tithes in Church Donations

Restricted tithes, or church donations given for a specific purpose, can be challenging to deal with for any congregation. They create administrative costs and concerns and raise theological and Biblical questions about tithing. However, they can also present opportunities to increase giving in a church community.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Determine if your congregation will allow its members to restrict portions of their ten percent tithe. Most church communities do not allow this.

2. Assign responsibility for administering restricted tithes. This role could be taken by a member of the church staff or a volunteer from the congregation.

3. Institute a process for the acceptance and use of restricted tithes. This will serve as the guide for the staff member or volunteer who is administering them. This process could include a deadline for use of funds or a schedule of reports to be filed at the receipt of donation and its expenditure.

4. Publicize your policy to the congregation. This can be done from the pulpit, as a letter to members or at a special meeting.

5. Encourage increased donations by making specific needs of the church known to individuals. Church members may have a special interest in funding certain needs. For example, someone who had a powerful experience in a youth group may be willing to pay a portion of the youth minister's salary. On a smaller scale, that same person could contribute a sum of money to the youth group's snack fund.

6. Follow up to confirm the restricted funds were used for their intended purpose. Finish with a note to the donor: "Thank your for providing (blank) for our congregation."

Tips & Warnings

• Pray for the Lord's guidance while making decisions and seeking donations.
• Restricted tithes are also called designated funds.
• Don't be overwhelmed by the details. Be grateful for the giving that takes place regardless of destination.