Online Giving FAQs

What are online giving and automatic contributions?
Online giving is a one-time contribution, processed on a secure Web site, where you can request that funds be pulled directly from your bank account or charged to your debit/credit card. Automatic contributions is a recurring giving arrangement, with transactions processed on the same secure Web site, using the same bank account or card each time.

Why should I switch to online giving or automatic contributions?
Simply, it makes the contribution process easier. With online giving, you write fewer checks and can make a contribution whenever you want — even at 3:00 in the morning. And with automatic contributions, you won’t forget to make a contribution, even when you’re on vacation or unable to make it to a weekend service. At the same time, online giving and automatic contributions reduce BranchCreek’s administrative costs. Fewer offering envelopes, less postage, and less work free up staff and funds for vital ministries.

How safe are online giving and automatic contributions?
Safer than crossing the street or walking down a flight of stairs. Bank account drafts (called an electronic funds transfer, or EFT) are regulated by the Federal Reserve and are less risky than checks because they cannot be lost or stolen. Debit/credit card charges are regulated by the high standards of Visa, MasterCard, and Discover and are just as safe as the payments you’re probably already making on sites like Amazon.com or Zappos.com. All information is protected using the latest technology in Web security.

How often are transactions made?
Transactions can be made at your convenience. You decide whether automatic contributions are given weekly, biweekly or monthly. One-time contributions are made whenever you want — any day of the week, any time of day.

Will I still be able to view my giving online? Will I still get a year-end tax statement?
Yes and yes. Online giving and automatic contributions are processed through AccessACS, the same system where your current giving is recorded. Regardless of how you give, we’ve got you covered.

How will I know my online giving or automatic contribution has been processed?
Each time a contribution is processed, you’ll receive an email. No need to check your account each day to see if it went through.

When will my giving record be updated to show online giving and automatic contributions?
Though contributions are processed as scheduled (as verified by the confirmation email), they are uploaded to BranchCreek’s database each Monday and will usually be available for viewing by Tuesday morning.

What if I’m signed up for automatic contributions and I change my bank or get a new debit/credit card?
All you need to do is sign in and update your information. That’s the beauty of this system. It’s all under your control and at your fingertips. In less than five minutes you’re done — no forms to fill out, no calls to make.

What if I’m signed up for automatic contributions and I want to stop?
You’re in complete control. To stop your automatic contributions, simply sign in and delete the automatic contribution. It’s that easy.

What if I want to change the amount or funds for my automatic contributions?
It’s quite simple. Just sign in and update your contribution whenever it’s convenient for you.

What if I still have questions or I have trouble signing up?
Rick Martin, our pastor of finance, would be happy to assist you in answering any further questions. He can also walk you through the process. Contact him via email at rick.martin@branchcreek.org or directly at 215-256-0100 x150.