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-- What happens to my check when I put it in the offering basket?
If the check has "pledge" written on the memo line, the check goes toward our operating budget. If the check does not have "pledge" written on the memo line, we generally assume it is for the "offering basket", which means half of the check goes to the Social Action cause of the month (the group we support changes monthly and is written in the Order of Service), and half goes toward the operating budget.
-- What happens to my cash when I put it in the offering basket?
Half of the cash in the basket each week goes to a Social Action cause (the group we support changes monthly and is written in the Order of Service). The other half of the cash goes toward our operating budget.
-- What is the operating budget?
The operating budget is how we pay our ongoing expenses associated with running the church. The biggest items are rent and salaries. Other expenses include insurance, utilities, supplies, dues to the Unitarian Universalist Association, dues to our local Unitarian Universalist District, etc. Our total expenses are about $250,000 per year. We have between 80 and 90 members and friends who contribute to UUS.
-- What does it mean to "pledge"?
When you make a pledge, you make a promise to support the church financially. The annual stewardship drive for pledges occurs in late winter. At that time, we ask friends and members to make a pledge to support the church. We use those pledge figures to build the operating budget for the following fiscal year.
-- How much should I pledge?
There is a wide range of how much people are able to give, based on their financial circumstances and other factors. The range varies from $250 to $20,000 per year. We understand each person's circumstances are unique and appreciate any heartfelt gift to the church, regardless of size.
-- What if circumstances have changed and I am no longer able to fulfill my pledge?
We recognize that pledge payments may be paid on a schedule that fits individuals' personal finances. We also understand that changes in financial circumstances occur. If you need to modify your pledge schedule, please do not hesitate to contact the Treasurer, or if you prefer, the minister, so that our working budget may adequately reflect anticipated income.
-- When is my pledge due?
The church fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30 of the next year. Pledges are due by June 30th of the fiscal year. For example, let's assume you made of pledge of $2,000 at annual stewardship drive in March of 2011. That pledge is actually for the coming fiscal year, July 2011 - June 2012. The $2,000 pledge is due June 30th, 2012. However, if everyone paid their pledge on June 30th, we'd be in trouble! Fortunately members and friends tend to make their payments throughout the fiscal year.
-- How do I make pledge payments?
You can put a check in the offering basket at church with the word "pledge" in the memo line. You can also mail the check to our PO Box:
PO Box 1632 Sterling, VA 20167
-- Who should I make the check to?
UUS or Unitarian Universalists of Sterling
-- But I thought you changed the name to Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Sterling?
We are in the process of discussing and voting, however it is not yet official. For now, checks should be made out to UUS.
-- Can I set up an automatic monthly pledge payment?
Not through the church. However, many members and friends use their bank's online bill payment system to have a check automatically sent to UUS each month. If you need help with this please contact the Treasurer.
-- Can I make my annual pledge with a stock transfer?
Yes. UUS is able to accept donations of stock. Please contact the Treasurer if you would like to make your pledge with a donation of stock.
-- Can I pay my pledge with a credit card?
Not at this time. We are talking about this possibility and may offer it in the future. If you are interested in paying your pledge via credit card, please let the Treasurer know. If we have a lot of interest, we are more likely to offer that payment option.
-- Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. In February of each year, you should receive a statement from the Treasurer showing all the pledge payments you made over the prior calendar year (note that this is different from the fiscal year). You may deduct the amount of these contributions on your income taxes.
-- How do I contact the Treasurer?
Email is usually the best way:
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
. You can also talk to our Treasurer on Sundays before or after services.
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