What Happens When I Get Money Directly into My FBMI Account?
Recently, I have had discussions with a couple of missionaries in regards to getting money from third-party money apps directly into their FBMI work-fund accounts. In both cases, I had to remind the missionaries that monies received in this manner are not considered donations to FBMI. The donors of these funds cannot receive a charitable contribution statement from FBMI because the funds were not given to FBMI, a 501C3 non-profit organization. The funds were given directly to them as individuals.
Last year, First Financial Bank made access to Zelle very easy. I initiated the app myself. However, I soon came to realize how easy it would be to think getting money in this manner would constitute a donation to FBMI. That is not the case.
Also, remember that any ministry funds you receive that do not go through the FBMI office can generally be considered Support & Love Offerings Given Directly to You and should be entered into Box C on the EOM.
Missionary Evangelist James Belisle
FBMI Field Service Coordinator
Western Hemisphere