True or False
True or False: During the initial meeting with the applicant, if they meet the requirments, it's okay to promise financial help.
False! It is NEVER okay to promise anything. There are many variables when going through the application process.
What is step 1 of the benevolence process?
A. Send them the Benevolence Application
B. Check their RMS profile
C. Have an initial conversation
D. Contact the vender to confirm details
C. Have an initial conversation
Can we help with utility bills if their water or gas is about to be shut off?
Yes.
Also know: The Kansas Cold Weather Rule (Nov. 1 – March 31) prohibits electric, natural gas, and water utilities under Kansas Corporation Commission jurisdiction from disconnecting residential service when temperatures are forecast to drop below 35°F within 48 hours. Customers with debt can set up 12-month payment plans to maintain or restore service.
How many times can one person receive benevolence in a year?
An applicant can receive benevolence up to two times per year.
True or False: We can provide Benevolence for non-attenders.
True! We can provide benevolence to people who don’t attend our church. That being said, since each campus has a finite benevolence budget, we have to recognize that every yes is a potential no to someone else.
When working with a vender, what IRS required form is needed in order to complete the application process?
W-9
Anytime the AP Team send money to a vender they need a completed W-9 for that vender, per the IRS requirements.
Can we help with Medical Bills?
No. We can not help with medical bills. However, if they need to not pay their rent or mortgage in order to cover their medical bills, we an then help them pay their rent or mortgage.
If someone who does not attend our church calls and asks for help on their rent, what should you say?
1. Offer them community resources. Explain that they are better equipped to help in a timely manner.
2. Offer to pray for them and invite them to church.
3. If they are persistent, offer to meet with them after a service time.
True or False: Staff facing financial crisis can apply for Benevolance.
True! Life.Church staff facing a financial crisis may also apply for benevolence. In these situations, you will contact the Team Development team for next steps.
The applicant sends you a screenshot of their bill due the following month. Can we accept that as proof of bill to upload to the benevolence application?
NO! All bills must be past due, and regardless we can not accept screen shots of an applicants online portal. It must be an official bill.
Can we help with funeral expenses?
No. We are unable to help applicants with funeral expenses.
However, there can be extenuating circumstances that are worth a further conversation.
What is the maximum amount an applicant can receive in a year?
$1,300
True or False: Life.Church will pay for counseling services.
Yes, when it will help the applicant or their family work towards long-term restoration.
We can fund up to 4-Sessions for the applicant.
Once the benevolence application is completely filled out. What do you need to do before submitting the payment request form?
Add notes to the applicant’s RMS profile.
Include the type of request, the amount we intend to pay, a brief summary of the persons situation, and any next steps you identified.
Can we pay for a taxi ride or bus ticket?
Yes. In emergency situations where there are no other options we are able to pre-pay for a taxi or buy a bus ticket. HOWEVER: Our legal policy prohibits us from paying for rides using Uber, Lyft or other similar services.
Can we use our P-Card for Benevolence?
Yes! In some very specific situations, like buying $25 gas cards, we are able to use our P-Card.
True or False: Once the Benevolence application is approved, it will take up to two weeks for those finances to reach the vender.
False: We can send finances to a vender through ACH, Check, or Epay. A direct bank transfer can take only two business days to reach the vender.
When facing a shut-off or eviction how fast can we rush the application process?
Rush payment are rare but can be applications can be processed in 48 hours. (This does not include the time it takes the vender to receive the payment. In some cases they will take a Promise to Pay.)
Can we pay for temporary emergency hotel stays?
Yes. In VERY specific and rare emergency situations where no other options are available. We can help attenders with ONE single night.
What is our benevolence philosophy based off of?
Our benevolence philosophy is based off of the model by The Chalmers Center and their book Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence.