Faith Lutheran Church, Albany, Oregon, Online Giving

Electronic Funds Transfer

Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) is a payment method used to automatically transfer funds from a member's checking or savings account to a church's bank account via the Automated Clearing House (ACH) Network.

EFT is also called Direct Debit, Direct Payment or simply, ACH.

A majority of people receive payroll or Social Security income via EFT and it is also widely used by households to pay mortgages, utility bills and other monthly obligations.

EFT is a way for church members to make donations automatically on a recurring basis, uninterrupted by vacations and other commitments.

Q. What are the major advantages of electronic giving by EFT?

A. EFT is all about convenience for you and consistency for the church. Electronic giving eliminates frequent check writing and helps members stay on track with pledges even when they are unable to attend services. The church in turn benefits from much-needed donation consistency and a reduction in the volume of check and cash contributions that must be handled and manually processed in the church office.

Q. How are my automatic contributions deducted and transferred?

A. First you enter an online transaction on the donation page of our website. The contribution is then transferred through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network - the same network already used by families to make mortgage and utility payments or to receive payroll earnings and social Security income.

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

A. A deduction to your account will occur on the date you specify on the contribution page.

Q. How will I keep track of contributions in my check register?

A. Simply record your contribution in your check register on the appropriate date.

Q. What can I use to prove I made a contribution?

A. Your bank statement will show an itemized list of electronic transactions that can be used as proof of your contributions.

Q. How does the church know that I made a contribution?

A. Any day that contributions are made, an email is generated and sent to our church financial secretary, who will record this information in your giving record. No identifying financial information is sent in this email. The email lists names, member IDs, the funds contributed to, the amount given, and any comments you enter.

Q. Is giving by EFT risky?

A. It is certainly less risky than writing checks or carrying cash to church. Your electronic donation is processed using Vanco Services, LLC - an established and highly-regarded company that moves funds directly from church members to the church on the same day without any delay. Vanco processes contributions for more than 10,000 churches and nonprofit organizations.

Q. How much does direct debit giving cost?

A. It costs you nothing and it costs the church 20 cents per transaction. It is the lowest cost method of transferring funds.

Q/ What if I try electronic giving and don't like it?

A. You are in complete control of your online contribution schedule and can alter or cancel it at any time.

The Simply Giving program is endorsed by Thrivent Financial Bank. Click here for more information from Thrivent.

Thank you for your donation!

Still have questions?

Contact the church office at 541-928-7660 or email the Stewardship Committee.