A Guide to Exploring Online Donation Platforms for Churches

How we do things is changing, including how we give to our churches. More and more church members are looking for ways to donate digitally. The right setup can be quick, easy, and fit right into our internet-connected lifestyles. But for some churches, moving to an online giving platform can be difficult. "Will it be safe? What about our older members who aren't tech-savvy?" 

These are valid concerns. 

But here's the good news: setting up online giving for your church is simpler than you might think.

This article will share some features you should look for and how solutions like Tithe.ly can make the whole process a breeze. So, if you're curious about adding an online option for your church's donations, keep reading.

The Value of Online Donations for Churches

Most of us have fond memories of the offering plate being passed from person to person during a service. Maybe we remember asking our parents if we could be the ones to drop the money in, or maybe we remember the first time our own children added their donation to the plate as it passed.

Adding a digital donation option doesn’t take away that time-honored tradition but helps those who aren’t as good at planning ahead. The reality is more and more folks don’t carry a checkbook or cash, and, given the option, they prefer to click a button rather than reach for their wallets. That's where online tithing comes into play. By adding an online donation method, you're not replacing the traditional in-person giving; you're simply adding another option. And this option has some perks!

Online donations can significantly boost your church's fundraising efforts. Think about it. When people can give any time, anywhere—whether they're in their living room, at a coffee shop, or traveling—they're more likely to donate.

Plus, with online giving, you can cater to everyone. It's all about making giving convenient and inclusive for everyone. In a nutshell, going digital with donations can help your church reach its financial goals while accommodating the diverse preferences of your congregation.

Features to Look for in an Online Giving Platform

Certain features are nice to have when searching for an online giving platform. These make the process smoother for both the donor and the church. Here's a look at some of those handy features:

• Functionality: A user-friendly interface can make a world of difference. Both church staff and members should be able to navigate it with ease. Consider intuitive platforms to make giving a straightforward process.
• Security: Ensuring all transactions are safe with industry-standard security protocols is a must. After all, it's about trust.
• Multiple Giving Options: Find a platform that isn’t limited to a single payment option. An option with diverse payment methods can cater to the specific needs of everyone in your congregation. Look for options to integrate credit cards, debit cards, ACH, text message payments, and even newer methods like Apple Pay, Venmo, and PayPal.
• Recurring Donations: The option to set up repeating donations is a valuable feature that can benefit churches tremendously. Allowing members to set up automatic, recurring gifts can help create a sense of stability for everyone.
• Push Notifications: Being able to notify donors about upcoming giving campaigns and events can drive participation.
• Giving History: Empower your donors! Allow them to view their giving history, download a record of donations for tax purposes, and manage their recurring gifts at their convenience.
• Fund Designations: Donors love to know where their money is going. Platforms that enable gifts to be designated to specific funds or ministries provide this clarity.
• Social Media Integrations: In our connected world, having social media integrations can boost the visibility of your giving campaigns, reaching more potential donors.
• Text Giving: Donating via a simple text message can be very appealing for those on the go.
• Event Registration: Why not combine practicality with generosity? Platforms that let members donate their time to events, like a winter coat drive or mission trips, while also donating funds can streamline church operations.
• Donor Management: Analytical tools that help churches manage the donor database and track giving trends are crucial. It helps in understanding the congregation's giving habits.

• Customization and Branding: It's great when churches can tailor the platform to resonate with their identity, be it through logos, colors, or custom-giving categories.
• Kiosk Options: Don't forget the in-person experience while embracing the digital. Digital donation kiosks in the church can offer digital donation options to those who do not have or want access from their mobile device.

Remember, while not every platform will have all these features, knowing the right questions to ask when considering a platform can really help you find one that meets your church's needs.

Tithe.ly's Church Giving Software Solutions

Churches need a reliable giving solution for online donations. Tithe.ly is an online donation app tailored specifically to the needs of churches. With its vast array of features and emphasis on security, Tithe.ly addresses many of churches' needs when venturing into the online giving arena.

• Multiple Online Giving Options
• Security
• Push Notifications
• Giving History & Donor Management
• Fund Designations

• Customization and Branding

Along with these key functions, Tithe.ly also offers:

• Integration with Church Management Systems: Tithe.ly doesn't just stand alone; it integrates beautifully with church management software (CHMS) and apps. This seamless integration allows for a holistic approach to managing all church operations.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While the plethora of features might seem overwhelming, Tithe.ly offers competitive pricing; the online giving platform is free and a flat fee of $119 a month will get you access to all other products. With transparent processing fees and no hidden setup fees, churches can be assured of cost-effective operations.
• Customer Support: Recognizing that many churches might be new to the tech game, Tithe.ly prides itself on top-notch customer support. Those who might feel tech-intimidated can breathe easy knowing they're backed by a team ready to assist.

Tithe.ly's online donation app stands out as a holistic solution for churches, addressing both the financial and engagement aspects of church operations. Whether you're a small community church or a large congregation, Tithe.ly is equipped to enhance your online giving experience.

The Setup Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Leaping into the world of online donations can be a tad overwhelming, but with Tithe.ly, the process is simplified. Here's a step-by-step guide to getting started, ensuring your church maximizes its fundraising efforts and effectively engages its members.

Creating an Account:

• Begin by visiting Tithe.ly's official website.
• Click on the “Sign Up” or “Create Account” option. You'll need to provide some basic details about your church, including its name and location.
• Complete the registration by setting a password and confirming your email.

Integrating the Online Giving Platform:

• Once registered, head over to the “Integrations” section.
• Here, you can integrate the online giving platform with your church website. If you're also using a church app, integrate it in this section for a seamless digital giving experience.
• Follow the on-screen instructions, ensuring that the giving page aligns with your church's branding for consistency.

Setting Up Giving Options:

• Under the “Giving Options” tab, input bank account details to facilitate transactions.
• Activate mobile giving, a prime tool as more givers lean towards mobile app donations.
• For those who prefer a quick donation method, set up the text giving option. This allows members to donate via a simple text message.

Engaging Church Members:

• Now that everything's set up, it's crucial to let your church members know about the new online tithing options.
• Make an announcement during services, highlighting the benefits and ease of the new system.
• Utilize social media channels to spread the word. Create engaging posts, perhaps even sharing a quick tutorial on how to use the online giving platform.
• Consider other channels like newsletters or emails. A dedicated email explaining the process can be especially useful for less tech-savvy people.
• For a hands-on approach, set up a kiosk or digital giving station within the church premises. Church staff can assist members in real-time, guiding them through their first online donation.

Remember, as you embark on this new journey, the goal is to equip your church members with the best online giving tools while ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

Take the Digital Leap with Tithe.ly

Navigating digital giving might seem daunting, but the future of church fundraising is here and online. By selecting Tithe.ly, you're not just adopting an advanced giving platform – you're joining a community dedicated to ensuring that every church, regardless of size or tech-savviness, thrives in the digital age.

If you're still on the fence, remember: it's not just about making giving easier for your members; it's about equipping your church with tools to fund its God-inspired mission effectively. With Tithe.ly, you get the best of both worlds: cutting-edge technology and a dedicated support team by your side. From the initial setup to managing your growing donor base to creating a system for online church, you'll never feel alone in your journey.

So, why wait? Dive into the future of church donations with Tithe.ly. Together, we'll navigate the digital giving landscape, ensuring that your church's mission is always well-funded and your members' giving experience is seamless.