ServiceU Adds Debit-Only Option to Online Giving and Payments for Churches and Faith-Based Nonprofits

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Aug. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Increasingly, churchgoers are looking for new ways to give, beyond the traditional collection plate passed around during service.

As more Americans have turned to plastic and to paying bills online in recent years, many faith-based organizations are following suit. Some churches, especially larger congregations, have looked to electronic giving -- some encourage members to give online via church websites or mobile applications while others place kiosks similar to ATMs in the lobby, where members can swipe a credit or debit card.

Financial Peace

Biblical values regarding debt and money may offer one explanation. Financial Peace guru Dave Ramsey, an advocate of a debt-free life and of generous giving to churches, often quotes Proverbs 22:7: "The borrower is slave to the lender." Churches nationwide have encouraged their congregations to adopt Ramsey's philosophy of managing money.

At a time when Americans are struggling more than ever with debt, ServiceU CEO Tim Whitehorn began to see that some churches might be willing to take a second look at online giving if congregants could do so without adding to their personal debt.

"ServiceU believes the church should decide whether or not it will accept credit cards, not the software. We now have an option for churches who want to make it easy for members to give online, but don't feel comfortable with the idea of tithing using a credit card," said Whitehorn.

"Debit cards are being used at an all-time high today," writes Financial Peace guru Dave Ramsey on his popular website, daveramsey.com. "Since a debit card is directly linked to your bank account, it's a convenient way to purchase things without incurring debt." This means no interest, no annual fees, and no late fees, which means church members are donating money they actually have.

Flexibility Offered in Debit-Only Feature

This new debit-only option allows churches and other nonprofits to choose debit-only for their donations and still accept both debit and credit card transactions for events and other related payments.

"By implementing this new feature, churches can help ensure that people are not giving their way into debt," explains Joseph Sangl, author of I Was Broke. Now I'm Not.

Whitehorn stresses that organizations should have access to as many choices as possible when it comes to electronic payments. "Churches should be able to choose the types of cards they accept and for what purpose," he says. "This new feature makes debit-only giving convenient for members via their mobile phone, personal computer, or giving kiosk."

About ServiceU Corporation

Since 1999, ServiceU Corporation has been the trusted solution for providing software that helps churches, schools and nonprofits simplify and automate administrative processes by moving them online. ServiceU's core product line includes software to manage event scheduling, online giving and registrations, ticketing, and climate control. ServiceU is dedicated to serving clients with cost-effective tools and superior customer service.

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SOURCE ServiceU Corporation