Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Buzzsprout, online, or search ‘The Stewardology Podcast’ in your favorite podcast app.

 

We’ve all been there. You’re checking out at your local store when the screen flashes a question: “Would you like to round up your total to support [insert charity here]?”

It’s a simple ask—just a few cents. Sometimes it’s a flat donation request: “Would you like to donate $1 to help local kids?”
And suddenly, you’re facing a split-second decision that somehow makes you feel like a bad person if you say no.

But what should we actually make of these checkout charity prompts? Are they a small but meaningful way to be generous, or something we need to think through more carefully?

Let’s explore.

1. Don’t Give Out of Guilt.

The biggest red flag with register donations is the emotional pressure. These asks are often designed to tug at your conscience in the moment. You don’t want the cashier—or the customer behind you—to think you’re heartless for skipping out on a $0.37 donation. But this kind of giving is rarely meaningful.

The truth?

You’re free to give.
You’re also free not to.

Generosity isn’t defined by spare change under social pressure. In fact, when our giving is driven by guilt instead of intentionality, we miss the heart behind biblical generosity altogether.

As Paul reminds us in 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.”

2. Rounding Up Isn’t Wrong—But It’s Not Enough

If your entire charitable giving happens through rounding up your purchases… there are only two explanations:

  1. You’re not giving enough.
  2. You’re spending way too much!

Sure, it can feel good to participate in these micro-giving moments. Tim, for example, appreciates the round-up feature when he pays in cash—less change to carry around. But even he admits: if he doesn’t know or trust the charity, he skips it.

And that’s key: Know where your money is going. Not all causes align with your values or worldview. Some organizations, though presented as humanitarian, may support causes contrary to your beliefs.

3. Don’t Give if there’s a Lack of Clarity

One of the biggest issues with point-of-sale giving is transparency. Do you know which charity is receiving the money? How much of your donation actually gets there?

A 2023 study by the National Retail Federation found that only 70–90% of round-up donations reach the intended charity, with the rest lost to processing fees, marketing, or admin costs.

Worse? The business gets the tax deduction—not you. Your generosity is funding their goodwill and tax breaks.

Compare that to giving directly to a nonprofit:

  • You choose the organization.
  • You ensure your money goes further.
  • You receive the tax benefit.
  • You can give more than a few cents.

It’s a better deal for everyone—especially the cause you care about.

4. Give Thoughtfully, not Impulsively

At the end of the day, giving at the register isn’t bad, but it shouldn’t be your primary avenue for generosity.

As Christians, we are called to steward God’s resources wisely. That means giving purposefully, joyfully, and with eternity in mind.

So, before you automatically tap “Yes” at the register, ask yourself:

  • Does this organization align with my faith and values?
  • Am I giving to my church and other biblically faithful ministries?
  • Could this money be better used if given directly to a trusted cause?

It’s not about hoarding or being stingy. It’s about directing generosity with focus and intentionality.

Final Thoughts: Round Up and Lean In

By all means, round up if you want to. Especially when you recognize and support the cause.

But don’t let that replace the kind of generous, gospel-driven giving that changes lives—starting with your local church and trusted ministries that advance the Kingdom.

Stewardship Application:

  • Round-up giving isn’t enough.
  • Give intentionally—not out of guilt.
  • You are free not to give.
  • Skip the middleman when possible.
  • Know where your money is going.
  • Use discernment—especially with causes that may contradict your faith.
  • Be generous—but not at the expense of what matters most.

So next time the register asks you to round up, you’ll know exactly how to respond—with clarity, conviction, and cheerful stewardship.

 

 

Next Steps

 

 

Material presented is property of The Stewardology Podcast, a ministry of Life Financial Group and Life Institute. You may not copy, reproduce, modify, create derivative works, or exploit any content without the expressed written permission of The Stewardology Podcast. For more information, contact us at Contact@StewardologyPodcast.com or (800) 688-5800.

The topics discussed in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations.  Investing and investment strategies involve risk including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Securities and advisory services offered through GWM, Inc Member FINRA/SIPC