How does it work?
Simply send a text message with the amount to 616-604-4000.
For example, to give $100, text, “100″ to 616-604-4000.
There are keywords you can use to text to give:
- Only texting an amount will give towards your undesignated tithes.
- “GLOBAL” will contribute towards GR1 Global
- “CARE” will contribute to Benevolence.
- “LOVE” will contribute to a current Love Offering.
If this is the first time you text a gift, you will receive a text back with a link to a web page.
Important Note: Please make sure that your phone plan does not block SMS messages or short code phone numbers in order to register seamlessly and receive confirmation texts.
Open the link, login to your PushPay account or create a new account and enter your debit or credit card information and you are done! When registration is complete, confirm your donation via text and you will receive a receipt for the gift via text message and email. Anytime you want to give after your initial registration, all you have to do is send a text message. Your card will automatically be deducted, and you will receive a receipt via text message and email. Message and data rates may apply*
Are the keywords important or can I just text anything?
Yes. The keywords are important when you want to designate your offerings.
Which kind of debit or credit card can I use?
Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or through a Bank Account ACH transfer.
Is the amount added to the phone bill?
No, the amount is not added to your phone bill, but it is deducted from your debit or credit card.
How secure is this?
PushPay’s comprehensive security features ensure the safety of sensitive data. Their software is validated to meet PCI requirements and provide SSL certificates for additional security.
What is the maximum amount I can give?
You can give any amount you want. The maximum limit depends on how much your bank will allow you to put on your card.
Will I be charged per text message?
The cost of sending and receiving the text message is determined by your cell phone provider. It normally is the same as sending a text message to your friend.
What are the requirements?
The system works with any mobile phone with SMS or texting ability. You do need to have a phone plan that allows texting.
You will need to have internet access on your phone to be able to do the initial registration. If your phone can do text messaging, but does not have internet access, you can still use your phone to give, but the initial registration needs to be done on a web browser, either on a personal computer or on another device with a browser.
There is no software or app that needs to be installed on your phone. All you need is a normal mobile phone.
Do I need a smartphone?
Any phone that is capable of using text messages can be used. In order to register the first time, you must have a web browser, either on your phone, or you can register the first time on your computer.
Is the gift tax deductible?
As with all gifts to Grand Rapids First, donations are deductible as allowed by IRS 501(c)3 rules.
What kind of receipt will I receive?
You will receive a receipt via text message. At the end of the year, your donations will be included on the tax receipt letter for the year.
Does it work internationally?
At this point this system works for US subscribers only. If you have a US number and you are abroad, your text should go through just fine, depending on your cell phone’s provider’s terms and policies.
Once I have donated, can I undo it?
If you need a donation refund, just contact the church and we can work with SecureGive to get your donation refunded.
How can I unregister on unsubscribe?
Simply by texting STOP to 616-604-4000. You will then receive an acknowledgement that you have unregistered.
Can I send prayer requests or other inquiries through this system?
No, this is an automated system designed for donations only.
Can I change the credit card I am using to a different credit card?
Yes, this requires a web browser. Simply login to your SecureGive account and go to Profile, then Saved Payment Accounts, and edit the Default Account info as needed, and save!
If you have additional questions about Text to Give, contact Give@GRFirst.org