9 Ways to Reverse a Downward Giving Trend A positive approach to encourage stewardship and generosity. Karl Vaters
Q&A: What Counts as a Tax-Deductible Donation? What is—and isn't—tax-deductible for donors who attend a church fundraising event. Michael E. Batts
Q&A: Will a Plaque Recognizing a Donor’s Contribution Prohibit a Tax Deduction? "Mere recognition" does not nullify a deduction. Richard R. Hammar
Q&A: How Should Items Donated for a Silent Auction Be Treated for Tax Purposes? Items donated to a silent auction are treated the same as other noncash contributions to the church. Kaylyn Varnum
Q&A: Is This “Humanitarian Effort” Possible—or Even Legal? While this plan may be well intentioned, it must be abandoned immediately. Frank Sommerville
Q&A: Do Donor Envelopes Substantiate Contributions? Envelopes have a number of advantages, but substantiating donations isn't one of them. Richard R. Hammar
5 Tips to Increase Giving This Summer Practical ways to encourage donations during these typically slower months. Caitlin Edwards
Q&A: Do 1099 Forms Need to Be Issued to People Receiving Charitable Funds? The benevolence distributions to a particular individual must represent a legitimate charitable distribution. Richard R. Hammar
Q&A: What Should We Do with Old, Uncleared Checks? Clean up the books the right way. Frank Sommerville
Q&A: Can restricted funds be used for anything but their intended purpose? The decision to do so involves both relational and legal considerations. Michael E. Batts
Q&A: Is Airfare for a Short-Term Missions Trip Tax Deductible? For the participant buying a ticket for him/herself, the airfare is tax deductible as a volunteer expense. Frank Sommerville
A Usable Metric for Any Church Discover the benefit of collecting data around the per-person-per-week giving metric. Matthew Branaugh and Chris Lutes
Q&A: Can a Pastor Receive a Deduction for “Donating” Vacation Time? Charitable contribution deductions are only available for donations of cash or property. Richard R. Hammar
Mixed Picture on the State of Church Finances Fewer small churches report gains compared to larger churches. Bob Smietana
Q&A: Can We Give an Honorarium to a Visiting Missionary? Why purpose, amounts, and the right visa make a world of difference. Frank Sommerville
Q&A: Are Tax Deductions Allowed for Silent Auctions? Yes, but you must make sure the receipts you issue are appropriate under the circumstances. Michael E. Batts
Monetary Gifts for Pastors Who Leave Churches must follow special rules when it comes to monetary gifts. Frank Sommerville
Q&A: Are Donations of Stock Considered “Noncash” Contributions? Yes, but understand that a number of special considerations and requirements apply to stock. Michael E. Batts
Q&A: Are Donations Given for a New Minister of Music Tax Deductible? Tax-deductible donations can be designated for a specific ministry purpose. Vonna Laue