Tithing & Debt

Money and religion are heated topics by themselves -- when the two subjects are combined through tithing, debates can get downright fiery. Although two sides to the debate exist on whether tithing when you have debt is proper, the one definite thing regarding tithing and debt no matter what side you take is that it possibly can increase the amount you pay to creditors over time.

Tithing Defined

Tithing is the practice of voluntarily setting aside some of your income to give to another organization or person. Usually, people tithe to their churches, and the amount tithed is traditionally 10 percent. Tithing is common in both the Christian and Jewish faiths, as well as some others such as Hindu and Islam. People tithe under the concept that investing a small amount guarantees that future generations can have something on which to build.

The Debate

On one hand, some people say that you must pay creditors before you tithe because God wants you to keep your agreements--through this argument, honoring your word honors God. On the other side of the argument is the idea that tithing must take priority since no one can serve two masters and God must come before all else.

Tithing With Debt

The above arguments assume that you must choose which party to pay first. However, no rule exists that says a debt must be completely paid prior to tithing. Often, it is possible to set aside 10 percent of your income for tithing and meet the minimum requirements of your credit contracts. The only thing tithing does when you are in debt is prevent you from paying down more on the principle balance of the debt. In the long run, this may cost you more in interest. If you cannot pay your minimum payments and set aside 10 percent, you still can tithe if you think outside the box.

Tithing Alternatives

One option with tithing is to volunteer to meet the 10 percent standard of giving. Volunteering doesn't provide an hourly wage, but you can apply an hourly wage to the hours you work to calculate the value of your services. This is a terrific option for many people who want to tithe but cannot because they don't work enough hours and can't find other regular, supplemental work. Another option when funds are tight is to write to your creditors and ask for a reduction in your minimum payment amount or interest rate. This may give you the few extra dollars you need to make tithing while in debt work.

Considerations

As pointed out by Michelle Singletary of "The Washington Post," conflict on tithing and debt reaches even into the political arena. Before 2005, debtors could keep money back from creditors in order to tithe according to their faith under the Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Protection Act of 1998. The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 did away with this protection. Critics of this law included President Barack Obama, who argued at the time that the law should encourage giving, particularly in times of economic turmoil. The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act means that as of 2011, in the eyes of the U.S. government, a finite answer exists as to who to pay first -- pay creditors and God can wait.