OfferingMate: Getting Started and the Essentials

OfferingMate: Getting Started and the Essentials

We are thrilled to assist you on your journey to enhance your giving programs. Getting started with us is straightforward, but having the right information at your fingertips will ensure a smooth and efficient registration process. Below, we detail the essentials you'll want to have ready when setting up your OfferingMate with SteepleMate. Let's ensure you're prepared to begin with confidence.

We understand the importance of making your experience as smooth and straightforward as possible when setting up your church's online giving system. To ensure a seamless registration process and to comply with financial regulations, we follow "Know Your Customer" (KYC) requirements.

Here’s a quick guide on what you’ll need to get started:

    1. Articles of Incorporation: This document formally establishes the church as a legal entity. It includes details such as the church’s name, purpose, structure, and other crucial information.
    2. 501(c)(3) Documentation (if applicable): For churches that have obtained this tax-exempt status from the IRS, providing proof of 501(c)(3) status can be beneficial, although not all churches are required to have this.

  2. Employer Identification Number (EIN):

    1. The church must provide its EIN, which is a unique number assigned by the IRS for tax purposes.

  3. Personal Identification Information:

    1. Details of the church leaders or those who have significant control over the church's finances, such as a pastor or treasurer. This typically includes their full name, date of birth, address, and Social Security Number (SSN) or other identification numbers.

  4. Bank Account Information:

    1. To set up electronic giving or transactions, the church will need to provide details of its bank account, which might include a bank statement or a voided check to verify the account details.

  5. Physical Address:

    1. Proof of the church’s physical location, which could be verified with a utility bill or lease agreement.

  6. Contact Information:

    1. Reliable contact information to ensure the church can be reached for any verification processes or issues that might arise.

Depending on the financial institution's policies and the specific risk assessments, additional documents might be requested.
These requirements are part of the due diligence processes under the Customer Identification Program (CIP) and help prevent financial crimes such as money laundering. Each financial institution might have slightly different requirements based on their policies and the legal framework they operate under, so it's essential to check directly with the institution for their specific documentation requirements. Read more about Know Your Customer Here.


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