A long-standing rule in the charitable giving world is, “Make it easy to give to your organization.” One way churches can help givers is by providing accurate and timely information.
“Sometimes a simple, timely reminder can make the difference between a completed gift and a good intention,” states David Atkins, executive director of the Foundation. “The Foundation provides lots of free brochures, and “Giving Thanks at Year’s End” continues to be one of our most popular.”
This year the Foundation is providing a coordinating poster along with the customized year-end brochure. Both are aimed at reminding people near the end of the tax year about ways to give to the church and some of the rules that impact the tax benefits for the giver.
“Churches can order as many as they need for a congregation-wide mailing or to tuck into a newsletter or bulletin,” states Atkins. “We also provide a sample letter for a pastor or lay leader to use to accompany a mailing.”
Brochures and posters can be viewed at the Foundation website (www.mumf.org), and orders can be placed online or by calling the Foundation office at 800-332-8238. Orders are encouraged by early November in order to allow time for production and shipping.
Giver’s Checklist
- Gifts must be completed by December 31, 2015 to be deducted this year.
- Checks may be mailed to the church if postmarked on or before December 31, 2015
- The church will provide you with a printed gift receipt for your records
Gifts of non-cash assets may have other tax and planning benefits. Consider gifts of:
– Stock – Personal Property
– Real Estate – Farm Products
– Life Insurance