Is my donation to Gateway Bible Church tax deductible? It may seem like an easy question to answer, but according to the IRS, there are some rules we must follow. Let's look at a few of the commonly asked questions*:

Q: Is my regular tithe and/or giving to the church tax-deductible?

A: Yes. Gateway Bible Church is a 501(c)3, and donations to our General Fund are tax-deductible.** If you give by check or online, you will receive a year-end giving statement itemizing all of your tax-deductible contributions to Gateway Bible Church throughout the year.

Q: I know of a person in need who could use some financial assistance. If I donate money to Gateway Bible Church to help that specific person, is my donation tax-deductible?

A: No. According to the IRS publication 3833, “Donors cannot earmark contributions to a charitable organization for a particular individual or family”.

Q: I would like to help needy families in my community. If I make a donation to Gateway Bible Church to help people in need, is my donation tax deductible?

A: Yes. Donations to the Benevolence Fund are used to help those in need. The Elder Board determines needs and uses money donated to the Benevolence Fund to help those individuals and families. Elder Board members and their immediate families are "disqualified" by the IRS from Benevolence Fund assistance.

Q: I would like to give a love offering to our pastors for all they do for us. Is this tax deductible?

A: No. Any donation earmarked to a specific individual is not tax deductible (see above). You are free to give a gift to an individual, but the IRS does not allow you to claim it as charitable giving.

Q: I signed my children up for youth group camp. Is this a tax-deductible donation?

A: No. By IRS definition, charitable contributions represent gifts given without reciprocity. Buying merchandise or attending an event puts you into the "got-something-in-return" category.

* This list is intended to help clarify some common questions, but is by no means exhaustive. 

** Please check with your accountant or tax-preparer for specific guidelines regarding your personal giving.