Streamline the process of recording contributions, track expenses accurately, and ensure that each financial entry is allocated to the correct budget. This classification aids in detailed financial reporting and analysis and simplifies compliance with tax regulations by distinguishing between taxable and non-taxable transactions. Whether you are handling donations, managing fund allocations, or overseeing general church expenses, setting up clear and effective payment categories will enhance both transparency and efficiency in your church’s financial management. Follow this guide to create and manage your categories and make the most of OfferingMate’s capabilities to support your church’s mission.

Step 1: Access Payment Categories

1. From the Finance Menu on your OfferingMate dashboard, select Payment Categories.
2. To add a new category, click on New.

Step 2: Configure Your Category

1. Name your category clearly to reflect the type of contributions or payments it will handle.
   
2. Optional: add a description for donors to know what they are supporting when giving to this category.
3. Add a Shortcut for the text-to-give feature, making it easier for donors to contribute using their mobile devices.
   
4. Options:
   
1. Default: categories labeled as default 
   
2. Visible
   
3. Income
   
4. Tax Deductible
   
5. Non-Cash
   

Step 3: Specify Account Details

Step 4: Set Category Properties

1. Check the appropriate boxes to mark the category as “Is Income,” “Is Default,” or “Tax Deductible.”
2. Once all settings are adjusted, click the Update button to save your changes.

Step 5: Edit Categories

1. To edit an existing category, select the ">" icon next to the category to view more details.

Step 6: Manage QuickBooks Integration

1. For categories that need to be tracked or managed via QuickBooks, select the ">" icon to view and edit associated Ledgers and Account Types.

Text-to-Give Feature

1. Prefixes & Emojis: Donors can use keywords like "give", "pay", or symbols like "$", along with emojis such as 💳, 💰, 💵, 💲, 💸 to initiate a text-to-give.
2. Multiple Categories: Donors can split their contributions between multiple funds in a single message by separating amounts with a comma.
3. First-Time Donors: New donors will receive a link to set up their payment method. All future gifts will use the latest saved method.

Quick Examples of Text-to-Give:

• 💰50.00 B, 100.00 T: Split a $150 payment between the Building Fund and Tithe.
• 💳 $125.75: Make a payment to the default category.