TL;DR
While digital giving is on the rise, cash and checks remain essential for churches, with 30% of churchgoers still giving by check. Processing paper checks manually can be time-consuming and error-prone, but modern check-scanning solutions, like those from OnlineGiving.org, streamline the process. By embracing both traditional and digital giving methods, churches can foster inclusivity, unlock generosity, and focus more on ministry. Transform your giving process today with OnlineGiving.org!
In today’s digital world, cash and paper checks may seem outdated, but they remain vital to church giving. According to a Lifeway Research study, 30% of churchgoers still give by check, and 53% use cash. Ignoring these traditional methods could mean leaving significant donations untapped and missing opportunities to nurture a culture of generosity.
Have you considered how many members of your congregation still rely on traditional giving methods like checks and cash? Are you fully equipped to meet their needs while embracing digital tools?
The Hidden Value of Traditional Giving Methods
Despite the rise of digital giving, cash and checks remain critical for churches, especially among older and multi-generational congregations. Many seniors prefer paper checks and contribute a substantial portion of donations. Surprisingly, many younger churchgoers also favor traditional methods—75% of those aged 18-34 prefer cash. These trends highlight the importance of providing diverse giving options that cater to all congregation members.
By offering these options, churches ensure that no one feels excluded from participating in this spiritual practice. Does your church currently have a strategy to engage both younger and older members in giving?
Challenges Churches Face with Check Processing
Processing paper checks has long been a time-consuming and error-prone task. Common issues include:
- Repetitive Scanning: Checks often need to be scanned multiple times for different systems.
- Manual Deposits: Transporting checks to banks delays access to funds.
- Batch File Uploads: Uploading checks for deposit can be labor-intensive and prone to errors.
These inefficiencies burden church staff, taking valuable time away from ministry efforts. For larger churches, the process can take days to complete, leaving donations locked up in a lengthy workflow.
What could your team accomplish if check processing became faster and more reliable? Imagine reallocating hours spent on administrative tasks to community engagement and ministry work.
Innovative Solutions to Modernize Check Handling
To address these challenges, OnlineGiving.org developed a cutting-edge check-scanning system designed to streamline operations. Key features include:
- Batch Processing: Scan over 100 checks at once, significantly reducing processing time.
- Cloud-Based Interface: Accessible anytime without software installations, monitored 24/7 for reliability.
- Integrated Deposits: Sync donations directly with Church Management Systems (ChMS) and bank accounts.
- User-Friendly Setup: Simplified processes ensure quick adoption and minimize errors.
With these solutions, churches can transform check processing into an efficient, seamless experience. Have you considered how a streamlined system could help your church better meet its ministry goals while reducing operational headaches?
Real-Life Success Stories: From Time-Consuming to Seamless
Bethel Austin: Faster Deposits, More Ministry Time
Bethel Austin faced delays with manual deposits, particularly after expanding to two services. Chris Giddens, Executive Operations Director, explained:
“Moving into our long-term facility and expanding to two services presented challenges. Delayed deposits and higher expenses meant we needed funds faster. OnlineGiving.org’s remote deposit system helped us save time and gain quicker access to our funds.”
EPC World Outreach: Efficiency That Drives Global Missions
EPC World Outreach (EPCWO) in Orlando, FL, processes 120-150 checks weekly for global missions. Previously, this task took three days and often resulted in errors. Moses Camacho, Accounting Analyst, shared:
“With OnlineGiving.org, I process our weekly checks in just three hours. The system even learns donor preferences, reducing errors and streamlining the process.”
These stories highlight the transformational impact of modernizing donation processing. What would your congregation achieve if funds were accessed faster and donor records were more accurate?
The Spiritual Power of Diverse Giving Options
Checks and cash are more than financial tools—they represent opportunities to teach the spiritual value of giving. By neglecting these traditional methods, churches risk alienating certain segments of their congregation and missing out on meaningful contributions. Offering diverse giving options ensures inclusivity, making everyone feel part of a unified mission.
Are you prioritizing inclusivity in your church’s giving options? How might fostering a culture of generosity strengthen your congregation’s spiritual connection?
With OnlineGiving.org’s check-scanning feature, churches can:
- Save time by automating manual tasks.
- Improve accuracy and reduce errors.
- Access funds faster to meet ministry needs.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let outdated processes hold back your church’s mission. Transform your giving process today with OnlineGiving.org. Schedule a free demonstration and discover how you can optimize donation processing and empower your ministry.
How could these changes free up your team to focus on what truly matters—ministering to your congregation and community?
Call us at (615) 206-4000 or email support@onlinegiving.org to get started!
The Stewardship Coach
Checks aren't old news! 30% of churchgoers still give by check, and we've got the modern tools to make processing them a breeze. Save time, reduce errors, and foster generosity!https://t.co/5BYsHyYLaN pic.twitter.com/dvKR72Dfkh
— Online Giving (@onlinegivingorg) January 21, 2025
