Tithe Calculator - Calculate Your 10% Giving
Calculate your tithe on gross or net income. Plan your charitable giving with monthly and annual projections.
Your Income
Before taxes and deductions (traditional interpretation)
Offerings, missions, charity beyond tithe
Your Giving Summary
Monthly Tithe
$500
10.0% of monthly income
Annual Projection
Annual Tithe
$6,000
Total Annual Giving
$6,000
Should You Tithe on Gross or Net Income?
Tithing on Gross Income
Many Christians tithe on gross income (before taxes) based on the principle of giving "the first fruits" to God before any deductions.
- • Traditional interpretation of Proverbs 3:9
- • Honors God with the "first" of your increase
- • Results in higher giving amount
- • Common in evangelical churches
Tithing on Net Income
Others tithe on net income (after taxes), reasoning that taxes are mandatory and you never actually receive that portion.
- • Based on what you actually receive
- • More manageable for tight budgets
- • Taxes go to public services (a form of giving)
- • Common in mainline denominations
The Heart Matters Most: Scripture emphasizes cheerful, generous giving (2 Corinthians 9:7) over legalistic calculations. Choose what allows you to give joyfully and consistently.
Biblical Foundation of Tithing
Old Testament Origins
Genesis 14:20 - Abraham gave a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, establishing the practice before the Mosaic Law.
Leviticus 27:30 - "A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD."
Malachi 3:10 - "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse... Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing."
New Testament Perspective
Matthew 23:23 - Jesus affirmed tithing while emphasizing justice, mercy, and faithfulness: "You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former."
2 Corinthians 9:7 - "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Luke 6:38 - "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap."
Practical Tithing Tips
Getting Started
- 1.Start where you are: If 10% feels overwhelming, begin with 5% and increase gradually
- 2.Automate giving: Set up recurring donations to ensure consistency
- 3.Give first: Tithe before paying other bills to prioritize giving
- 4.Budget accordingly: Build your tithe into your monthly budget
Beyond the Tithe
- •Offerings: Additional giving above the tithe for special needs
- •Missions: Support missionaries and global outreach
- •Benevolence: Help those in need directly
- •Time & talents: Giving isn't just financial
Tax Benefits of Charitable Giving
Donations to qualified religious organizations (501(c)(3)) are tax-deductible if you itemize deductions:
2025 Deduction Limits
- • Cash donations: Up to 60% of AGI
- • Property donations: Up to 30% of AGI
- • Excess carries forward 5 years
Documentation Required
- • Bank records for donations under $250
- • Written acknowledgment for $250+
- • Keep all giving statements
Note: Standard deduction for 2025 is $15,000 (single) / $30,000 (married). You only benefit from itemizing if total deductions exceed these amounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tithing required for Christians?
While the New Testament doesn't mandate a specific percentage, it encourages generous, sacrificial giving. Many Christians view 10% as a starting point for giving, not a ceiling. The emphasis is on the heart attitude behind giving rather than legalistic adherence to a number.
Should I tithe if I'm in debt?
This is a personal decision. Some believe tithing should continue regardless of financial situation as an act of faith. Others suggest reducing giving temporarily while aggressively paying off debt, then increasing giving once debt-free. Consider starting with a smaller percentage and increasing as your situation improves.
Does my tithe have to go to my local church?
Traditionally, the tithe supports the local church ("storehouse" in Malachi 3:10). Many Christians give their tithe to their church and additional offerings to other ministries, missionaries, or charitable causes. Discuss with your church leadership if you have questions about their expectations.
Should I tithe on gifts, inheritance, or windfalls?
Many Christians tithe on all income including gifts, tax refunds, bonuses, and inheritance. The principle of "first fruits" suggests giving from any increase. However, this is a personal conviction—pray about what feels right for your situation.