How to Set Up Online Donations for a Church

Large and small churches can always use extra donations.

If your church needs to increase donations, consider accepting them online. In the age of electronic commerce, Internet users can now enjoy giving money as well as receiving it. By making your church visible to the world, you can reach potential donation givers on a global scale. To discover how your church can benefit from accepting online donations, visit an online giving service and review your options.

Instructions

1. Visit the Easy Tithe website and review its online giving service. Easy Tithe offers a "$0 Startup" option that waives initial setup fees. Representatives will work with your church to customize your personalized Web application. This application allows Internet users to visit your church's website and donate quickly using a variety of payment methods. The Easy Tithe service has a low monthly fee and offers a merchant account if your church does not have one.

2. Review ServiceU's TransactU Web application. TransactU enables your church to accept online donations. Users can give using mobile devices or from the Web. TransactU also comes with social media capability. Users who donate can interact online and share information with other users on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. The service has several pricing plans that have varying features and benefits. After reviewing the plans, click "Get Started Today," and fill out an information form. A representative will contact you with details about TransactU and get you started.

3. Navigate to the SimpleGive website and review its online giving service. SimgleGive supports online tithing as well as one-time donations. After signing up at SimpleGive, your church receives a personalized Web application that SimpleGive manages for the church. The system tracks online giving and simplifies user registration. Site visitors can give using electronic checks and credit cards. A full-featured reporting system allows you to generate activity reports and export them to Excel. Begin the signup process by clicking "Sign Up" or calling the toll-free number at 888-368-4483.

Tips & Warnings

• Review donation service plans carefully before choosing one. Prices can vary significantly depending on the plan you choose. For instance, some plans may charge a flat monthly rate, while others might bill you for each user transaction.

References

• "Windows PCs in the Ministry"; Steve Hewitt, Michael Lawson; 2010;

Resources

• Easy Tithe: Online Giving For The Church - Online Donations - Easy Tithe
• ServiceU: TransactU - Accept Online Registrations, Payment and Donations
• SimpleGive: Online Giving and Online Tithing for Your Church or Non-profit