Q.     What is electronic giving?
A.      Electronic giving (EFT) is a direct debit program whereby your contribution is debited automatically from your checking account.  To sign up, complete and sign the authorization form, and return it to the Parish Center with a voided check attached.  (Transfers from Savings Accounts are possible, but require your institution’s ABA routing number.  This is not printed on a check.  Call the parish office for details.)

Q.     What are the advantages of electronic giving?
A.      It makes it easy to fulfill Stewardship commitments, even when you can’t attend Mass.  You never have to bring cash or checks to church.  You can also help the parish save money.  Electronic Funds Transfer is completely confidential and your privacy is protected.

Q.     How will I participate during the offertory at Mass?
A.     Participants will still receive contribution envelopes.  You may have noticed that the envelopes have “EFT” printed on them with a box to check in order to designate that a contribution has been made electronically.  You can still place your contribution envelope in the collection basket, though this is not required.

Q.     How is my contribution automatically deducted from my checking account?
A.     Once you complete and sign the authorization form and return it to the church, the contribution amount you specify will automatically be transferred from your bank checking account to the church’s bank account.

Q.     When will my contribution be deducted from my account?
A.   Your electronic contribution will be debited on the days listed for your Regular, Capital Campaign, and/or Holy Day Offerings selected on the authorization form.

Q.     If I do not write checks, how do I keep my checkbook balanced?
A.     Since your contribution is made at an established time, you simply record it in your check register on the appropriate date.

Q.     Without a canceled check, how can I prove I made my contribution?
A.     Your bank statement gives you an itemized list of electronic transactions.  It is your proof of having contributed electronically.  Also, the parish will issue you a contribution report at the end of the year.

Q.     What if I change bank accounts?
A.      Notify the Parish Center and we will give you a new authorization form to complete.

Q.     Is electronic giving risky?
A.     It’s less risky than writing checks or bringing cash to church.  Electronic contributions can’t be lost, stolen or destroyed and are extremely accurate.

Q.     How much does electronic giving cost?
A.     It costs you nothing, but if you would like to help the parish cover administrative expenses for electronic giving, keep in mind that each electronic funds transaction carries a cost for the parish.  For this reason, monthly giving is the preferred option.  However, you may choose to contribute your Regular Offering weekly or semimonthly.

Q.     What if I try electronic giving and don’t like it?
A.     You can cancel your authorization by notifying the Parish Center.