Q.  What is Giving Simply?

A.  Giving Simply is a direct payment program whereby your contribution is debited automatically from your checking/savings account.  One-time gifts can also use credit cards.

Q.  When will my contribution be deducted from my account?

A.  Your electronic contribution will be debited on the date you specify on the authorization form.

Q.  Is electronic giving risky?

A.  It’s less risky than writing checks or bringing cash to church.  Electronic contributions cannot be lost, stolen or destroyed and have an extremely high rate of accuracy.

Q.  What are the advantages of Giving Simply?

A.  It makes it easy to fulfill stewardship commitments, even when you can’t attend church.  You never have to bring cash or checks to church, and all gifts can be made from the comfort/privacy of your home.  Giving electronically also helps the church save money and improve its budget.

Q.  If I do not write checks, how do I keep my checkbook balance straight?

A.  Since your contribution is made at a pre-established time, you simply record it in your check register on the appropriate date.  Electronic contributions are recorded for you on your bank or credit card statement.

Q.  How much does electronic giving cost?

A.  A challenge gift to the church will pay for the first 200 authorizations, and there is a modest 25 cent charge to the church for each transaction.  We recommend monthly contributions to minimize this cost.

Q.  How are my contributions automatically deducted from my account?

A.  Once you complete and sign an authorization form and return it to the church Business Administrator, the confidential contribution amount you specify will automatically be transferred from your bank account to the church’s bank account.  As an option, gifts can be made on-line via the Eastminster website.

Q.  Without a canceled check, how can I prove I made my contribution?

A.  Your bank/credit card statement gives you an itemized list of electronic transactions.  You also  receive your normal quarterly statement from Eastminster

Q.  What if I try electronic giving and don’t like it?

A.  You can cancel your authorization by notifying the church at any time, or canceling it online.

Q.  What if I change bank accounts?

A.  Simply change the authorization form, or use your new account information online.

Q.  How do I sign up for Giving Simply?

A.  Complete the authorization form and return it to the church Business Administrator, or establish a contribution account online, using the Giving tab on Eastminster’s Home page.