Giving FAQS

Why Give Online?

On a practical level, we recognize that forms of payment have steadily evolved from cash to checks to card based transactions.   Many people primarily manage their finances online.  Providing the means to support our ministry through online giving has become a priority.   Bellingham Covenant Church encourages responsible giving that does not create debt for the giver.

Furthermore, online giving is a powerful way to faithfully offer your gifts.  It provides you another way to be consistent, disciplined, and faithful with God’s resources.

Furthermore, online giving is a powerful way to faithfully offer your gifts. With the ability to set up reoccurring gifts, you are able to consistently give, even when you forget your checkbook at home.  

What type of bank accounts can I use?

You can use a checking account, VISA, MasterCard, and Discover.

What are the online giving transaction FEES?

Here is an outline of the transaction fees associated with the various forms of online payment. These fees are taken out of the amount given to the church:

If you make a gift and pay with…

An online check (ACH), then the cost is $.45 + 0.00%
VISA/MC/Discover credit/debit cards, then the cost is $.35 + 1.5%

*Note that fees will vary depending on the gift amount. Online checks generally minimize the transaction fee.  As an example, an online gift of $100 has the following fee:

$.45 for an online check
$1.85 for VISA/MC/Discover

Online Check: For most gifts, an online check is easy and cost effective. ACH is a direct transfer from your checking or savings account. All you need is a check for determining the routing code and account number. An online check is the most cost effective online option.  As an alternative, many banks offer this service through their own websites.  You could also set BCC up as a payee through their service.

Credit/Debit Card: Giving via a credit/debit card is easy and efficient, and probably the most familiar online giving option for you. All you need is the information on the card. 

If I want to set-up a recurring gift, what are my options for frequency of my gift?

For recurring gifts, you have the option of giving weekly, monthly, or annually.

Can I designate my gift to a particular cause?

You can allocate your gift toward the General Fund or Building Fund by selecting either one.  If you would like to designate your gift even further (benevolence, a specific cause, etc.) just write a note in the space provided.

How would I give to both the general fund and the building fund? 

Just create two separate transactions.  For example, select ‘General Fund’ and whatever level of recurrence (one-time, weekly, etc.) and ‘Add to Giving Cart’.  Then ‘Continue Giving’ and create another gift under the ‘Building Fund’ designation.  

Is it possible to give to both the general fund and the building fund in one transaction?

Yes.  Simply write a special note on how you would like the gift allocated.  For example, you could give $100 to the ‘General Fund’ and write a note to divide it equally (or whatever) between general and building funds.  

How can I make a payment to a student account?

First, select the box called ‘Give to BCC Youth’ at the bottom of the home page. Then choose the appropriate student’s name from the drop down menu under ‘Choose a Designation’.  

When will I receive a receipt?

Bellingham Covenant Church is a 501(c)3 charitable non-profit organization.  For each online gift you make, you will receive receipt for your tax records.  The receipt will be delivered via email moments after your gift has been given.

You will also receive a receipt for your records of any events or retreats that you’ve registered to attend and also payments made to student accounts for upcoming ministry trips.

How can I view my giving history?

You can see your online giving history by logging into your account.  When you visit the online giving portal, click on ‘Your Account’ or ‘View Your Donations’ tab at the top of the page.

Why am I redirected to another website?

Online giving to Bellingham Covenant Church is administrated by the Evangelical Covenant Church Donation Portal.  This is a secure website and a clearinghouse to help process online donations.

Is it safe to give online?           

Yes. The electronic signup is done using 128-bit encryption for the highest level of security.  Credit Card and eCheck information is encrypted to the latest PCI security standards.

I have additional questions about online giving that have not been addressed.
Who can I talk to?

For any questions, concerns or comments about the online giving system, please contact us at frontdesk@bellinghamcov.org  You will receive a response from our staff as soon as possible.