Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is Payroll Giving?

Payroll Giving is a way for an employee to give regularly to a charity or charities. It is one of the simplest, most tax-effective ways to give. The donation comes straight from the employee’s gross pay which they receive immediate tax relief with every pound.

How does it work?

An employee will need to sign up to give through their pay. Once this has been completed, the requested donation is deducted from their gross pay before income has been applied. Their payroll department pass this onto a Payroll Giving Agent (PGA) who arrange for its transfer to the selected charity.

Why is it different to normal donations?

Payroll Giving is just like a direct debit or standing order. The main difference is that Payroll Giving is a tax-efficient way of giving directly from your salary.

How do PFOs make money?

Professional Fundraising Organisations (PFOs) charge a charity for each new recruit. This is weighted against the amount an employee chooses to give. ROI is good as most employees tend to give for an average of 7-8 years. The charity will also get their money back if the employee never starts to give.

Are there any times of year that do really well to get signups?

It often helps scheduling promotions around celebrations like Valentine’s Day, Easter and Christmas. Theming them helps as do incentives and giveaways.

But in general there is no time that is better or worse than another. You might have some particular times in your organisation that are busier (budgeting etc) or August when many people might be on holiday at the same time.