"Changing Lives By Sharing God's Grace"
Online Giving FAQs
Online Giving Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this a new service?
Christ Lutheran Church, has offered online giving options for almost 10 years.
Q: Why should I switch to Online Giving?
· Reduce the number of checks you write and the paperwork that goes with it.
· Never miss a giving opportunity because you forgot your cash or checkbook.
· Support the important work at Christ Lutheran Church, even while out of town or on vacation.
· Lower the church's processing fees, so more of your gift can be utilized.
· Enjoy peace of mind, knowing we use the best e-security available.
Q: How do I get started?
You can sign up for automatic deductions from either your checking or savings account by clicking the Give tab
on the Christ Lutheran Church website and entering your information. If you prefer not to sign up online, you can fill
out and sign the Electronic Funds Transfer sheet available at the church office.
Q: Are electronic contributions risky?
No. An electronic contribution is safer than writing a check; it can’t be lost, stolen or destroyed in the mail. All
Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) transactions are regulated by the Federal Reserve and are governed by strict national
rules and guidelines. Over four billion EFT transactions are processed annually in the United States. We further
protect your safety by utilizing the latest technology in e-security.
Q: Is there any charge to me from my bank to give online?
No. Electronic funds transfers carry no bank fees.
Q: How can funds be withdrawn directly from my checking or savings account?
Only with your authorization. No one can deduct money from your account automatically unless you specifically
authorize it by completing the Online Giving registration found thru the Christ Lutheran Church website, or by
completing and signing the Electronic Transfer Funds sheet available at the church.
Q: When would this automatic contribution be taken from my account?
When you sign up to give automatically, you select the start date that you would like your contributions to begin. You
can contribute weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or a one-time contribution. The start date, however, must be at least two
days from the current date, and deductions that fall on a weekend or holiday will be taken out on the next banking
day.
Q: Can I test this by giving one time?
Yes. You may test Online Giving by selecting "One Time" in the frequency drop down box.
Q: Can I designate my giving online?
Currently, you can give to Daily Ministry, Building Fund, Endowments, Memorials, or Other to designate special
needs or programs.
Q: What if I want to automatically give my donation weekly and to another fund once per month?
If you want to designate more than one type of contribution online, but each at a different frequency (i.e. monthly,
weekly, etc.), you must complete the registration process for each contribution separately. The process only takes
about 5 minutes each time through.
Q: What if I want to change the amount of my contribution or how often I give?
When you register for the Online Giving program, you can create your own profile and password to manage your
account. You will be able to view your contribution history, change the amount and/or date that you give, and update
your profile information.
Q: What if I change banks or accounts?
You will need to complete and sign an Electronic Funds Transfer form (available at the church) for any changes made
to your account numbers.
Q: What if I move or lose my job and need to cancel the automatic deductions?
You can cancel at any time. Please contact the church office to stop the automatic deductions from coming out of
your account.
Q: If I am no longer writing checks to the church, how do I keep my checkbook balance straight?
Your contribution is made on a pre-established day, so you can deduct it from your check record for that day.
Q: How can I keep a record of the amount I have contributed?
Upon registering for the program, you have the option to create your own profile which will allow you to view your
contribution history. Your bank statement will also provide you with an itemized list of all automatic giving
transactions. In addition, we will continue to send you an annual contribution report that is acceptable to the IRS.
Q: How do I participate in the weekly offering if my contribution is automatically deducted from my bank
account?
Giving online is a wonderful convenience that enables you to put away your checkbook and pen and to focus on God
and the inspirational music that is provided during the offering. If want, you can put your empty envelope in the
offering plate.
Q: Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Contact the church office and we will be glad to address your questions and concerns. New Paragraph