Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) for Your Giving
Direct Answers to Questions About Electronic Funds Contributions
Q. What is an Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT)?
A. Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) is a COMPLETELY VOLUNTARY program that allows you to make contributions to Grace Fellowship without writing a check.
Q. Why is Grace Fellowship offering E-Giving?
A. Members of the congregation have asked if we offer this option for giving, so we are making it available to them and anyone else who wants to take advantage of it.
Q. What are the advantages of an Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT)?
A. It saves you time. It simplifies your life. Even when you cannot be in church, your offering is processed in a safe, convenient and timely manner.
Q. When will my contribution be deducted from my account?
A. Your contribution will be deducted from your account on the date you specify on the form.
Q. If I don’t write checks, how do I keep my checkbook balanced right?
A. Since your contribution is made at a pre-established time, you simply record it in your check register on the appropriate date.
Q. Without a cancelled check, how can I prove I made my contribution?
A. Your bank statement gives you an itemized list of electronic transfers. It’s your proof of contribution. Thechurch will provide you with a statement of giving at the end of each year.
Q. Is an Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) risky?
A. Electronic Fund Transfer is less risky than check or cash contribution. It can’t be lost, stolen or destroyed in the mail and it has an extremely high rate of accuracy.
Q. What if I change bank accounts?
A. Simply complete a new authorization form.
Q. Is Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) as confidential as the present envelope system?
A. The same level of confidentiality will be maintained.
Q. How much does it cost to use an Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT)?
A. It costs you nothing and will save you time.
Q. Will I be able to use EFT for designated giving?
A. Yes, you may authorize deductions for special designations (Faith Trek, missions, etc.).
Q. What if I try Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) and don’t like it, or what if I want to adjust the amount of my deduction?
A. You can cancel your authorization for EFT or change the amount of your contribution at any time by notifying the church office and following up in writing.
Q. What can I put in the offering plate?
A. If you wish, simply write on your giving envelope the words “e-giver” before dropping it in the offering plate.
Q. How can I sign up for Electronic Fund Transfer?
A. Simply fill out the Authorization Agreement for Pre-Arranged Payments form, attach a voided check and give it to the church office.
Monthly deductions will occur on the 1st or 15th day of each month, semi-monthly deductions will occur on the 1st and 15th day of each month, and weekly deductions will occur on Tuesdays. If either happens to fall on a weekend or holiday the deduction will occur on the following business day. A statement of your contributions will be furnished to you at the end of the year for tax purposes.
