Do Companies Match Payroll Gifts How It Works + Who Does

Do Companies Match Payroll Gifts? How It Works + Who Does

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Tons of generous employees give to causes they care about through their employers’ workplace giving campaigns, but a common question still arises: Do companies match payroll gifts? The short answer is that yes, many do.

Payroll gift matching is an easy way for employees to increase the impact of their donations, often doubling or even tripling the funds received by nonprofits. But in order to reap the combined benefits of these workplace giving programs, it’s important to start with a solid foundation of knowledge.

That’s why, in this post, we’ll explain the following:

By the end, you should have a clear understanding of how payroll gift matching works, which companies offer it, and how to take full advantage—whether you’re an employee looking to amplify your giving or a nonprofit aiming to tap into this powerful source of support.

Let’s dive in and explore how matching payroll gifts can make a bigger impact for causes like yours⁠.

Do companies match payroll gifts?

Many companies do indeed match payroll gifts as part of their broader workplace giving and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. Payroll gift matching enables employees to donate a portion of their paycheck directly to a nonprofit, with the employer matching that contribution, often on a dollar-for-dollar basis. This approach makes it easy for employees to give consistently while also significantly increasing the total donation reaching the nonprofit.

While not every company offers payroll matching, it’s increasingly common among businesses that prioritize employee engagement and community impact. These programs may come with specific guidelines—such as donation minimums or eligible nonprofit categories—but they share a common goal: to support causes employees care about and encourage year-round giving.

How matching gifts work with payroll donations

Matching gifts and payroll donations often go hand in hand, creating a seamless and impactful way for employees to give more to the causes they care about. Here’s how the process typically works, step by step:

  1. Employee Enrolls in Payroll Giving. The process begins when an employee signs up for their employer’s workplace giving program, often through an internal HR portal or a third-party giving platform. They choose a nonprofit and specify a donation amount to be deducted directly from their paycheck, either as a one-time gift or a recurring contribution.
  2. Donation Is Automatically Deducted. Once enrolled, the donation is automatically deducted from the employee’s paycheck, typically on a pre-tax basis. This makes giving simple, predictable, and budget-friendly, encouraging consistent support for nonprofits throughout the year.
  3. Employer Matches the Donation. If the company offers a payroll gift matching program, they’ll contribute an additional amount, typically matching the employee’s donation dollar for dollar⁠—though some companies may offer a higher or lower match ratio. The match may be made on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis, depending on the company’s policies.
  4. Funds Are Distributed to the Nonprofit. Both the employee’s payroll deduction and the employer’s matching contribution are sent to the designated nonprofit. This may be done directly or via a third-party administrator that processes and distributes the funds.
  5. Donor and Nonprofit Receive Confirmation. Employees usually receive confirmation of their donations and matched gifts for their records. Nonprofits may also receive donor details (if shared) along with the matched funds, allowing them to acknowledge the support and build stronger relationships.

Do companies match payroll donations? Yes!

Here are a few additional considerations to note:

  • Eligibility matters. Not all nonprofits qualify under every company’s matching policy. Most employers will match gifts to 501(c)(3) organizations, but some exclude religious or political causes or narrow their program criteria to include only a particular type of cause.
  • There are usually caps. Companies often set annual limits on how much they’ll match per employee, with maximums landing anywhere from $500 to $10,000 or more. Once that maximum amount is reached, the employee can keep making payroll donations, but they may not be matched again until the following year.
  • Employees may need to opt in. Some programs require employees to request a match or verify their donation, even if it was made via payroll. Don’t skip this step, or else incoming matchable gifts are likely to slip through the cracks!

When your supporters enroll in payroll donation programs and get their gifts matched, you’ll find that you can efficiently boost funding for your cause. Combining the two programs streamlines giving for employees while delivering steady, reliable funding for nonprofits⁠—all with minimal administrative burden.

Increase payroll donations and matching gifts with Double the Donation.

12 Leading companies that match payroll gifts

Now that you understand how payroll gift matching works, you might be wondering which companies actually offer these programs. While not every employer participates, many well-known organizations are leading the way by making it easy for employees to give back—and amplifying those efforts through generous match policies.

Below, we’ve highlighted 12 standout companies that match payroll donations, along with key details about how their programs work.

Microsoft is an example of a top company that matches payroll gifts.

1. Microsoft

As a global leader in the technology sector, Microsoft employs approximately 220,000 people worldwide and is headquartered in Redmond, Washington. The company is renowned for its robust philanthropic culture centered around its Employee Giving Program.

Through this program, Microsoft encourages employees to make recurring donations to eligible nonprofits directly from their paychecks. Then, to double the impact, the company matches these contributions dollar for dollar, up to $15,000 per employee annually. This seamless integration of payroll giving and matching gifts empowers employees to support their communities efficiently and meaningfully.

Learn more about Microsoft’s corporate giving programs here.

Pfizer is an example of a top company that matches payroll gifts.

2. Pfizer

Pfizer, a pharmaceutical giant based in New York City, employs around 83,000 people worldwide. The company’s philanthropic programs reflect its healthcare mission, with a strong emphasis on making charitable giving accessible and impactful.

Through Pfizer’s Giving Station, employees can donate via payroll deductions and have their gifts matched up to $5,000 annually. The combination of automatic payroll giving and matching contributions makes it easy for employees to give consistently while significantly increasing the nonprofit’s impact.

Learn more about Pfizer’s corporate giving programs here.

Apple is an example of a top company that matches payroll gifts.

3. Apple

With headquarters in Cupertino, California, Apple is a technology powerhouse employing over 160,000 people. Apple’s Giving program includes both payroll giving and matching gifts, where employee donations are matched dollar for dollar up to $10,000 annually.

The company has made it easy for employees to regularly support causes of their choice, and Apple’s match applies whether the donation is made through payroll or another method, making it a truly inclusive program that maximizes employee impact.

Learn more about Apple’s corporate giving programs here.

Google is an example of a top company that matches payroll gifts.

4. Google

Google, under its parent company Alphabet Inc., is a dominant name in the internet and software industry. Headquartered in Mountain View, California, Google employs about 180,000 people globally.

The company encourages giving through its Google Giving program, offering employees the option to make recurring donations via payroll deductions, which are matched dollar for dollar up to $10,000 annually. This unified structure allows Googlers to support global and local nonprofits with sustained, matched contributions throughout the year.

Learn more about Google’s corporate giving programs here.

Intel is an example of a top company that matches payroll gifts.

5. Intel

Intel, a leading semiconductor and technology company based in Santa Clara, California, employs approximately 120,000 people. The company’s philanthropic infrastructure includes an integrated payroll giving option and a 1:1 matching gift program with a cap of $10,000 per employee each year.

Intel also promotes volunteering, offering match dollars for hours served. By making payroll giving and matching both accessible and generous, Intel encourages employees to be actively involved in community support.

Learn more about Intel’s corporate giving programs here.

AbbVie is a top example of a company that matches payroll gifts.

6. AbbVie

AbbVie, headquartered in North Chicago, Illinois, was founded in 2013 as a spin-off from Abbott Laboratories and employs approximately 50,000 people worldwide.

The company supports charitable engagement through a matching gift program that matches employee donations to eligible nonprofit organizations at a 1:1 ratio, up to $5,000 annually. AbbVie’s program encourages giving across various causes, including education, health, and human services. Employees also have the option to contribute through payroll deductions, allowing them to support charitable organizations on an ongoing basis directly from their paychecks.

Learn more about AbbVie’s corporate giving programs here.

HPE is a top example of a company that matches payroll gifts.

7. Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), based in Houston, Texas, was formed in 2015 following the split of Hewlett-Packard into two separate entities. HPE currently employs around 60,000 people globally and actively fosters a culture of corporate citizenship.

Through its matching gift program, HPE matches employee donations to eligible nonprofits, often on a dollar-for-dollar basis. The company also promotes payroll giving by enabling employees to contribute directly from their paychecks to qualified organizations, making it convenient to support causes they care about year-round.

Learn more about HPE’s corporate giving programs here.

Nike is a top company with payroll giving that matches gifts.

8. Nike

Founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports and headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Nike, Inc. is a global leader in athletic apparel and footwear, employing over 83,000 people worldwide. Nike demonstrates a strong commitment to social responsibility through its employee giving programs.</p>

Specifically, the company offers a matching gift program that typically matches donations to eligible nonprofits at a 1:1 ratio. Nike also supports payroll giving, allowing employees to make regular, automated contributions to charitable organizations, further amplifying their philanthropic impact.

Learn more about Nike’s corporate giving programs here.

Adobe is a top company with payroll giving that matches gifts.

9. Adobe

Adobe, founded in 1982 and headquartered in San Jose, California, is a leading software company with more than 30,000 employees globally.

Adobe’s social impact initiatives include a robust matching gift program, in which the company matches donations made by employees to qualifying nonprofits, up to $10,000 each year. The company also facilitates payroll giving, making it easy for employees to support causes they’re passionate about through automatic paycheck deductions.

Learn more about Adobe’s corporate giving programs here.

Visa is a top example of a company that matches payroll gifts.

10. Visa Inc.

Visa Inc., a global leader in digital payments, was founded in 1958 and is headquartered in Foster City, California. The company employs over 26,000 people worldwide and places a strong emphasis on giving back.

As such, Visa’s matching gift program allows employees to double their charitable contributions by matching donations to eligible nonprofits. Additionally, Visa supports payroll giving by offering employees the opportunity to donate a portion of their paychecks to vetted charitable organizations⁠—and then matching them⁠—thus reinforcing its commitment to social impact and community involvement.

Learn more about Visa’s corporate giving programs here.

Macy's is a top example of a company that matches payroll gifts.

11. Macy’s

Macy’s, one of the most iconic department store chains in the United States, was founded in 1858 and is headquartered in New York City. The company employs over 80,000 people across its stores, corporate offices, and distribution centers.

Macy’s supports employee philanthropy through a matching gift program that matches contributions to a wide range of nonprofit organizations. The company also promotes payroll giving, enabling employees to make regular charitable donations directly from their paychecks.

Learn more about Macy’s corporate giving programs here.

T-Mobile is a top example of a company that matches payroll gifts.

12. T-Mobile

T-Mobile, headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, is a major U.S. wireless network operator with more than 70,000 employees. Founded in its current form in 2001, T-Mobile places a high value on social responsibility and employee engagement.

The company offers a matching gift program that amplifies employee contributions to eligible nonprofits. T-Mobile also facilitates payroll giving, allowing employees to donate easily and consistently through automated payroll deductions.

Learn more about T-Mobile’s corporate giving programs here.

Strategies for increasing payroll donation revenue for nonprofits

Wrapping up & additional payroll giving resources

Matching payroll gifts is a powerful yet often underutilized way to amplify charitable giving. However, the full potential of these programs are hardly realized, largely due to a lack of awareness surrounding the opportunities.

When combined, matching gifts and payroll giving can go together well, offering a significant impact for organizations like yours. Don’t let these contributions fall by the wayside!

Looking to learn more about payroll giving for nonprofits like yours? Check out these additional recommended resources:

Increase payroll donations and matching gifts with Double the Donation.

Proven Ways to Increase Payroll Donations at Your Nonprofit

5 Proven Ways to Increase Payroll Donations at Your Nonprofit

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For organizations seeking consistent and reliable funding, payroll donations represent a powerful yet often underutilized resource. These employee-led giving programs enable donors to contribute small amounts from each paycheck—amounts that accumulate to provide significant support over time.

However, many nonprofits struggle to fully tap into this opportunity. Whether it’s due to a lack of awareness, poor promotion, or an overly complex process, potential contributions often go unrealized.

Looking to change that? In this post, we’ll explore five proven strategies to increase payroll giving at your nonprofit:

  1. Registering your organization with payroll giving platforms.
  2. Creating a dedicated payroll giving page on your website.
  3. Driving awareness with social media.
  4. Combining payroll donations with matching gifts.
  5. Recognizing and thanking your payroll giving donors.

From building a solid foundation to making giving as easy and engaging as possible, these tips will help you unlock a sustainable stream of donor support, all while deepening relationships with your existing community. And if you’re looking for a deeper dive into all things payroll giving-related, our free download, The Ultimate Guide to Payroll Giving, can help.

Let’s dive in!

1. Register your organization with payroll giving platforms.

Before you can encourage supporters to donate through payroll giving, your nonprofit must be accessible through the platforms that facilitate these contributions. Many companies rely on workplace giving platforms—like Benevity, YourCause, Bright Funds, or America’s Charities—to manage and distribute employee donations. If your organization isn’t registered, you’re essentially invisible to potential donors using these tools.

The solution? Start by identifying and registering with the most commonly used platforms in your region or among your donors’ employers. Be prepared to submit essential information, including your Employer Identification Number (EIN), a description of your mission, and bank details for direct deposit.

Increase payroll donations by registering for CSR platforms like this

Once your nonprofit is listed, take the time to optimize your profile. Include compelling descriptions, up-to-date branding, and high-quality images if the platform allows. The more professional and engaging your presence, the more likely employees are to choose your organization when setting up their payroll donations.

Key Tip: Keep a record of where you’re registered, and revisit these platforms regularly to update information or respond to donor inquiries. A complete and current profile can make a significant difference in securing recurring support.

2. Create a dedicated payroll giving page on your website.

Once your nonprofit is set up on payroll giving platforms, the next step is making it easy for your supporters to take action⁠—and that starts with your website. A dedicated payroll giving page serves as a central hub where visitors can learn about payroll giving, its importance, and how to get started.

Think of this page as both an educational and conversion tool. Use simple, accessible language, and highlight the convenience of giving straight from their paycheck—no invoices, no reminders, just automated generosity.

Here’s what to include on your payroll giving page:

  • What payroll giving is and how it works
  • The benefits to donors (e.g., tax-deductible, low effort, long-term impact)
  • Step-by-step instructions on how to enroll in a program
  • A list of companies that offer payroll giving, if you know where your donors work
  • A contact form or email for questions
  • Real stories or testimonials from current payroll donors, if available

Check out this example page from WaterAid to see these practices in action:

Increase payroll donations with a dedicated landing page

Bonus Tip: Optimize the page for search engines with keywords like “payroll giving,” “workplace donations,” or “employee giving programs.” Also, link to it from your main donation page and include it in your email footers and donor communications to increase visibility.

By creating a clear and informative payroll giving page, you’re reducing friction for your donors and helping them say “yes” to ongoing support with confidence.

3. Drive awareness with social media.

Even if your nonprofit is registered with payroll giving platforms and has a great web page explaining the process, none of that matters if your supporters don’t know payroll giving exists. That’s where social media comes in.

Social media is one of the most effective tools for building awareness and driving engagement around payroll giving. With the right content, you can reach donors where they already spend time and inspire them to take action—especially if you make the message relatable, clear, and easy to share.

Here’s how to make the most of your social platforms to increase payroll donations:

  • Educate your audience by explaining what payroll giving is and how it helps. Use short, digestible posts with branded graphics or quick videos.
  • Highlight real impact. Share stories, statistics, or milestones that show how payroll donations are making a difference.
  • Create reminders. Time your posts around key giving moments—like year-end, Giving Tuesday, or open enrollment periods at major employers.
  • Use clear calls to action. Every post should direct users to your dedicated payroll giving page or inform them of the steps to get started through their employer.

For the best results, don’t forget to utilize platform-specific features, such as Instagram Stories, LinkedIn posts (especially useful for workplace-related topics), and Facebook Events or Live Q&As, to answer questions and engage your community in real time.

This example from the MND Association demonstrates how one organization can do so:

Increase payroll donations with social media posts like this

Pro Tip: Tag companies with payroll giving programs and encourage your supporters to share how they give through work. Peer advocacy can be one of the most persuasive motivators for new donors to join in.

By consistently discussing payroll giving on social media, you’re keeping the opportunity visible, relevant, and easy to act on—three essentials for cultivating long-term support.

4. Combine payroll donations with matching gifts.

One of the most effective ways to maximize the impact of payroll donations is by pairing them with matching gift opportunities. After all, many employers who offer payroll giving programs also provide donation matching—doubling (or even tripling) the contributions their employees make. Yet, these matching gifts often go unclaimed simply because donors don’t realize they exist or don’t know how to apply.

By actively promoting the combination of payroll giving and employer matching, your nonprofit can unlock significantly more funding with minimal additional effort from donors.

Here’s how to make this strategy work:

  • Educate your supporters about matching gifts and how they can maximize the impact of their payroll donations. Emphasize that it’s a simple way to increase their impact without giving more.
  • Provide clear instructions on how to check if their employer offers matching. Link to matching gift search tools directly from your payroll giving page.
  • Coordinate your messaging. When promoting payroll giving—on your website, in emails, or on social media—mention matching gifts as a bonus benefit.
  • Track and follow up. Flag payroll donors who work for companies with known matching programs. Then, follow up with a reminder or guide to help them submit their match request.

See how the GBS/CIDP Foundation aligns the two opportunities on their website here:

Increase payroll donations with matching gifts like this

Pro Tip: Partner with a matching gift platform (like Double the Donation) to automate the match process where possible. Streamlining this experience reduces friction and increases the likelihood that donors will complete the additional step.

When payroll donations and matching gifts work together, the result is a steady, scalable stream of funding that can grow exponentially. It’s a win-win for your donors and your mission.

Increase payroll donations with Double the Donation.

5. Recognize and thank your payroll giving donors.

Payroll giving donors are some of your most loyal and consistent supporters. They’ve committed to helping your organization month after month, often quietly and without much fanfare. That’s exactly why it’s so important to recognize their generosity and make them feel appreciated.

Consistent gratitude builds stronger relationships and encourages long-term giving. When payroll giving donors feel seen and valued, they’re more likely to continue—and even increase—their support. A thoughtful thank-you also reinforces the impact of their gift and connects them more deeply to your mission.

Here are some effective ways to appreciate payroll donors:

  • Send personalized thank-you messages. Whether it’s a handwritten note, email, or quick video message, a personal touch goes a long way.
  • Create a special donor segment. Acknowledge payroll donors in your annual report, on your website, or through exclusive updates or newsletters.
  • Celebrate milestones. Recognize donor anniversaries (e.g., one year of giving via payroll) or share when their cumulative impact hits a certain level.
  • Offer small tokens of appreciation. This could be branded swag, behind-the-scenes updates, or invitations to exclusive events.
  • Highlight stories. With their permission, feature payroll donors in social posts or email spotlights. This not only honors them but inspires others to join in.

Check out how the Cancer Research Foundation recognizes existing payroll giving donors on social media, as seen in this testimonial video they shared. In it, the donor states, “I’ve been doing this for a few years now, and I don’t really need to think about it once it was all set up.”

Increase payroll donations with recognition like this

Pro Tip: Because payroll giving is often managed through third-party platforms, it’s important to keep your donor data organized. Make sure you’re capturing key information so you can reach out and thank these donors directly and appropriately.

Recognition isn’t just about saying thanks—it’s about building a lasting connection. When payroll donors feel acknowledged, they’re more likely to stay engaged, advocate for your cause, and continue supporting you for years to come.

Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Payroll donations are more than just convenient—they’re a gateway to long-term donor engagement and financial stability. By implementing these proven strategies, your nonprofit can streamline the giving process, cultivate a culture of generosity, and maintain a steady stream of funding that supports your mission year-round.

Remember: the key to increasing payroll donations lies in education, accessibility, and ongoing communication. Start small, track your results, and keep optimizing for improvements. Your donors (and your bottom line) will thank you.

Interested in learning more about payroll giving? Check out these recommended resources to continue growing your knowledge: 

Increase payroll donations with Double the Donation.

Email Templates to Boost Payroll Giving Participation

4 Email Templates to Boost Payroll Giving Participation

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Payroll giving is one of the simplest and most effective ways for nonprofits to secure steady, recurring donations. Yet many organizations struggle to fully leverage this fundraising channel, largely because they lack clarity and compelling communication with their supporters. That’s where well-crafted outreach⁠, such as these email templates to boost payroll giving⁠, comes in.

In this post, we’ll share four proven email templates designed to drive payroll giving participation, from introducing the concept to thanking committed donors and more:

Whether you’re new to payroll giving or you’re looking to refresh your existing communications, these emails will help you engage supporters and grow a vital revenue stream.

Drive revenue with these email templates to boost payroll giving

In other words, with the right messaging at the right time, you can educate your audience, motivate participation, and build long-term loyalty through payroll giving.

Let’s begin!

Top Tip: The best payroll giving emails should direct readers to a dedicated Payroll Giving landing page on your website. This way, they can easily navigate to the resource and learn more about the opportunity. Bonus points if you’ve embedded Double the Donation’s payroll giving database on the page, empowering supporters to quickly determine their eligibility and next steps.

Email #1: Introduction to Payroll Giving

About the email:

Want to help your supporters discover a way to make a deeper, more lasting difference? This email template is built to introduce them to the power of payroll giving—what it is, how it works, and most importantly, why it matters.

By guiding your audience toward this often-overlooked option, you’re not just raising awareness—you’re opening the door to a form of giving that’s consistent, sustainable, and mission-fueling. Use this framework to spark interest, drive action, and grow the kind of dependable support that nonprofits thrive on.

Email template:

[Subject line] Introducing Payroll Giving: Easy, Automatic, Meaningful

[Name],

Did you know you can make a lasting difference—right from your workplace? Payroll giving is a simple way to provide steady, reliable support to [Nonprofit], helping us plan ahead, respond faster, and do more for the people and communities we serve.

Here’s Why It Matters:

❤️ Fuel Greater Impact: Your ongoing support allows us to expand programs, reach more people, and deepen our long-term efforts.

📅 Support We Can Count On: Knowing we have your regular commitment helps us allocate resources where they’re needed most⁠—when they’re needed most.

🌱 Make Every Paycheck Count: Even small contributions, given consistently, grow into powerful change over time. Whether you give $5 or $50 per pay period, payroll giving adds up to lasting change.

Whether you give $5 or $50 per pay period, payroll giving adds up to lasting change. 

And Here’s How You Can Get Started:

  1. Contact your HR or payroll department to inquire about the availability of payroll giving. Or use our easy search tool on the landing page here [link to payroll giving page] to find your company and get started!
  2. Let them know you’d like to support [Nonprofit].
  3. Set your recurring donation amount—it’s that easy.
  4. See what other programs your company offers⁠—you may be eligible for a matching gift, too!

If you need any help or documentation from our team, just reply to this email. We’re happy to assist!

As always, thank you for being part of our community and for considering this simple yet powerful way to give.

With ongoing gratitude,

[Your Name, Title]
[Nonprofit]
[Contact Info]

Email #2: Does Your Employer Offer Payroll Giving?

About the email:

Many people don’t realize their workplace offers payroll giving—but when they do, it can become one of the most effective ways to support causes they care about. This email template is designed to help your supporters uncover whether they have access to this option, sparking curiosity and prompting action.

By encouraging supporters to explore payroll giving, you’re not just helping them find a convenient way to contribute—you’re building a foundation of reliable, recurring support for your mission.

Email template:

[Subject line] Does Your Employer Offer This Giving Option?

An Easy Way to Give—Offered by Thousands of Employers

Hi [Name],

Here’s a powerful fact: over 30 million employees have access to payroll giving through their employing companies—and many don’t even realize it!

Payroll giving lets you make automatic donations directly from your paycheck to organizations like [Nonprofit]. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to support the causes you care about.

Interested? Take 2 minutes to ask your HR or payroll team if your company offers a workplace giving or payroll deduction program. Or, use our handy search tool [link to payroll giving page] to find your company and read up on the details provided. If they offer a program, all you need to do is designate [Nonprofit] as your charity of choice.

Thank you for supporting [Nonprofit] in ways that make the most sense for you. Payroll giving might be one of the easiest and most impactful ways to help us carry our mission forward.

Not to mention, many companies also match those donations or offer other impactful programs that help you make a difference in our mission. Whether it’s a payroll donation, a matching gift, or a volunteer grant, your support through your employer drives real change⁠—and we so appreciate your involvement!

Best regards,

[Name]
[Nonprofit]
[Contact Info]

Make the most of these email templates to boost payroll giving with Double the Donation.

Email #3: Thank You for Your Payroll Giving Support

About the email:

Payroll donors are some of the most consistent and high-impact contributors to your mission. This email template is designed to help you recognize and thank them—not just for their generosity, but for the steady support that powers long-term change.

Acknowledging these donors isn’t just good stewardship—it’s a strategic opportunity. Payroll givers often have a higher lifetime value and may also be connected to other forms of corporate support, like in-kind donations, volunteer grants, or matching gift programs. A simple thank-you can open the door to deeper engagement and even new partnerships in the workplace.

Use this message to show appreciation, reinforce their impact, and let them know you’re here to support them in every step of their giving journey.

Email template:

[Subject line] You’re Powering Change, One Paycheck at a Time

Thank You for Being a Payroll Giving Champion

Hi [Name],

We just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for choosing to support [Nonprofit] through payroll giving.

Your consistent generosity—automatically gifted from each paycheck—makes a lasting impact on our work. Whether you’re helping us [insert brief mission-related example, like “deliver meals to families,” “protect local wildlife,” or “fund vital research”], your support is fueling real change in our community.

  • 💸 Your donations add up to significant support over the course of your giving
  • 💪 Regular gifts help us plan long-term and respond quickly to urgent needs
  • 🧡 You’re part of a special group of donors making giving a seamless habit

We truly couldn’t do this without you.

If you ever need to update your payroll gift, get documentation for your records, or learn about other ways to increase your impact (like employer matching), just reach out—we’re here to help. In the meantime, see what other programs your employer offers. Just use the search tool on our website [link to payroll giving/workplace giving page]!

With heartfelt thanks,

[Your Name]
[Nonprofit]
[Contact Info]

Email #4: Matching Gift Reminder for Payroll Giving

About the email:

Payroll giving is already a powerful way to contribute—but when paired with employer matching, it can go even further. This email template helps you remind payroll donors to check whether their company offers a matching gift program, turning their consistent generosity into an even greater force for good.

By encouraging donors to explore matching opportunities, you not only amplify their impact—you deepen their engagement and potentially unlock new streams of corporate support. Many companies are eager to give, but need an employee to take the first step. This message equips your supporters to be that spark, all while reinforcing your appreciation for their ongoing commitment.

Email template:

[Subject line] Reminder: Get your payroll donations matched!

2X the Impact: Your Payroll Gift Might Be Eligible for a Match

Hi [Name],

Thank you again for giving through payroll—your consistent support means so much to us at [Nonprofit].

But here’s something you might not know: your employer may match your payroll donations, potentially doubling (or even tripling) the impact of your gift!

Here’s How It Works:

Many companies offer matching gift programs for charitable contributions made through payroll deductions. All you need to do is:

  1. Search our company database [link to matching gift page] to locate matching gift information for your company.
  2. Follow the provided instructions to submit a simple form (often online) with our nonprofit information.
  3. That’s it! Your employer reviews the request and sends an additional donation our way.

It’s an easy, no-cost way to make your generosity go even further.

With double the thanks,

[Name/Title]
[Nonprofit]
[Contact Info]

P.S. Some companies have deadlines for submitting matching gift requests—so don’t wait to check!

Wrapping Up & Additional Payroll Giving Resources

Effective communication is the key to unlocking the full potential of payroll giving for your nonprofit. By using these four targeted email templates, you can guide your supporters through every stage of the donor journey—from awareness to enrollment, reminders, and gratitude.

Ready to get started? Customize these templates to fit your nonprofit’s brand voice and watch your payroll giving program thrive.

Plus, check out these additional recommended resources to continue growing your knowledge of all things payroll giving:

  • How to Register Your Nonprofit for Payroll Giving [6 Steps]. This straightforward guide breaks down the essential steps your nonprofit needs to take to get registered with payroll giving platforms and employer programs. Perfect for organizations just starting out, it ensures you don’t miss any critical details in the registration process.
  • 7 Strategies for Marketing Payroll Giving to Your Supporters. Learn actionable marketing tactics tailored specifically for promoting payroll giving. From email campaigns to social media tips, this resource helps you effectively raise awareness and boost participation among your donor base.
  • Tracking Payroll Giving: A Nonprofit’s Step-by-Step Guide. Discover how to monitor and analyze your payroll giving revenue with this comprehensive guide. Learn which metrics matter most and how to use data-driven insights to optimize your fundraising efforts over time.

Make the most of these email templates to boost payroll giving with Double the Donation.

Benefits of Payroll Giving for Nonprofits & Donors

Benefits of Payroll Giving for Nonprofits & Donors: A Win-Win

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When it comes to charitable giving, convenience and consistency go a long way. That’s where payroll giving comes in—a simple, powerful way for employees to support the causes they care about through automatic deductions from their paychecks. And it’s not just donors who reap the advantages. These programs establish a reliable, low-maintenance stream of funding that can make a meaningful difference⁠—and the benefits of payroll giving for nonprofits are extensive.

In short, it’s a win-win. Donors can make a bigger impact with less hassle (especially when employer matching is combined with the payroll donation), and nonprofits gain access to a sustainable, often underutilized fundraising channel.

Looking to learn more? We’ll cover the following in this guide:

Whether you’re a nonprofit professional looking to diversify your revenue or a donor interested in giving back more efficiently, payroll giving is certainly worth your attention.

Let’s get started!

What is payroll giving?

Payroll giving is a simple and impactful way for employees to support their favorite nonprofits directly through their regular paychecks. This type of program—part of the broader category of workplace or employee giving—allows individuals to set up recurring donations that are automatically deducted from their wages, often with just a few clicks.

The process is typically facilitated by a company’s HR department or through a third-party workplace giving platform. Once an employee selects a nonprofit and specifies a donation amount, the funds are deducted from their pay each pay period and sent directly to the chosen organization.

The benefits of payroll giving for nonprofits, donors, and companies

Strategies for increasing payroll donation revenue for nonprofits

Benefits of payroll giving for nonprofits

For nonprofits, payroll giving presents a unique opportunity to tap into a reliable, scalable source of funding, often without adding to the development team’s workload. When organizations take steps to incorporate payroll giving into their fundraising strategies, the results can be both meaningful and long-lasting.

Here’s how nonprofits benefit the most:

1. Consistent, Recurring Donations

Payroll giving provides nonprofits with a predictable stream of revenue. Because donations are automatically deducted from employee paychecks on a regular basis, your organization can count on consistent support that makes budgeting and planning easier.

2. Increased Donor Retention

Recurring donors tend to stick around longer than one-time givers—and payroll donors are no exception. Once an employee sets up their gift through payroll, they’re likely to continue giving steadily over time.

3. Access to Corporate Matching Gifts

Many companies pair payroll giving with a matching gift program, thereby multiplying the impact of employee donations. By participating in payroll giving platforms, nonprofits can unlock additional revenue without asking donors to contribute more out of pocket.

4. Low Administrative Overhead

Payroll gifts are typically processed through third-party platforms or employers, resulting in fewer manual tasks for nonprofit staff. This streamlined approach reduces administrative costs and frees up time to focus on other mission-driven work.

5. Visibility in Workplace Giving Portals

Registering with payroll giving platforms gives nonprofits exposure to new donors—employees who might not have otherwise discovered or supported the organization. Being listed as an eligible nonprofit puts you directly in front of donors who are ready to give.

Bottom line: Whether you’re a small team or a large organization, payroll giving is a sustainable way to diversify your fundraising strategy and deepen donor relationships over time.

Make the most of the benefits of payroll giving with Double the Donation.

Benefits of payroll giving for donors

Payroll giving isn’t just easy. It’s one of the most donor-friendly ways for individuals to make a lasting difference. For those who want to support the causes they care about in a consistent, stress-free way, payroll giving offers several distinct advantages:

1. Convenience and Simplicity

Payroll giving automates the donation process. Once a donor sets it up (which is usually fairly simple in itself), contributions are deducted directly from each paycheck. There’s no need to remember to give monthly, track receipts, or manually submit payments. It’s a “set it and forget it” way to give, which many donors appreciate.

2. Budget-Friendly Giving

Because donations are spread across pay periods, donors can make a significant annual impact without incurring a substantial financial burden all at once. As a result, small amounts deducted biweekly can add up to a meaningful gift by the end of the year.

3. Potential for Matching Gifts

Many employers match payroll donations to eligible nonprofits—often dollar for dollar, and sometimes more. This means a donor’s gift can go twice as far (or further) for a cause they care about without any extra cost on their part.

4. Tax Efficiency

Payroll donations are often deducted pre-tax, which can reduce a donor’s taxable income depending on the employer’s setup. Even when deducted post-tax, donors still receive documentation that makes it easy to claim deductions come tax season.

5. Consistent Support for Charitable Causes

Payroll giving enables donors to provide steady, ongoing support to nonprofits they believe in. This consistency can be more impactful than occasional one-time gifts, helping organizations plan and sustain their work over time.

Bottom line: Whether they’re new to giving or seasoned philanthropists, donors will appreciate the ease, flexibility, and impact that payroll giving brings to their charitable journey.

Tips for nonprofits: making the most of payroll giving

Payroll giving has the potential to become a steady, high-impact fundraising stream for your organization. However, like any revenue channel, it requires visibility, clarity, and the proper infrastructure to make a meaningful impact.

Fortunately for you, nonprofits of all shapes and sizes can successfully grow payroll giving by following a few practical strategies.

Register your cause with leading workplace giving platforms.

To tap into payroll giving donations, your nonprofit must be listed on the platforms employees use to give through their workplace. These platforms—such as Benevity, YourCause, Bright Funds, America’s Charities, and CyberGrants—serve as the gateway between your organization and corporate donors.

Start by researching which platforms are most popular among companies in your region or sector, then complete their registration process carefully. Ensure your nonprofit profile is thorough, up-to-date, and includes compelling descriptions and relevant imagery.

Being present and visible on these platforms significantly increases your chances of being discovered by employees who are ready to give, making this a foundational step in your payroll giving efforts.

Create a dedicated payroll giving page on your website.

Your nonprofit’s website is often the first place potential donors seek information. Creating a dedicated payroll giving page offers a clear, centralized resource that explains how payroll giving works and how supporters can participate.

Marketing payroll giving via your website

Include step-by-step instructions for setting up payroll donations, FAQs, and a company search tool if possible. You’ll also want to highlight benefits such as ease, recurring impact, and the potential for employer matching.

From there, this page can serve as a handy reference, offering linking opportunities in email appeals, social media, and other outreach efforts. This helps donors navigate the process confidently and increases gift conversion rates.

Promote the payroll giving opportunity regularly in donor outreach.

Consistent communication is crucial for raising awareness and increasing participation in payroll giving. To do so, we recommend incorporating payroll giving messaging into your regular email newsletters, social media posts, event communications, and even year-end appeals.

For the best results, use clear, donor-focused language that emphasizes the convenience and impact of the programs. Sharing stories of donors who give through payroll or highlighting recent payroll giving milestones can also add authenticity and motivation. Don’t overlook offline channels, either! Include payroll giving information in mailed newsletters, fundraising events, volunteer efforts, and more.

Email demonstrating the benefits of payroll giving for nonprofits and donors

Why? The more donors are aware of this option, the more likely they are to participate.

Collect employment information to identify eligible supporters.

Knowing where your donors work unlocks powerful fundraising opportunities, including payroll giving and matching gifts. In order to obtain employment information, we suggest implementing an optional “employer” field on all donation forms, event registrations, and volunteer sign-ups. Explain why you’re asking for this information and how it benefits the donor, such as by potentially doubling their gift through employer matches or enabling payroll deductions.

From there, you can use this data to segment your donor database and target outreach to employees of companies with workplace giving programs. This tailored approach ensures you’re focusing time and resources where the potential for payroll giving revenue is highest.

Track and optimize your payroll giving revenue.

Regularly monitoring payroll giving performance helps you understand what’s working and where to improve. Use reporting features provided by workplace giving platforms to track donation amounts, donor counts, and participation trends. From there, you can analyze which companies generate the most revenue and identify gaps in engagement.

Making the most of the benefits of payroll giving for nonprofits

By treating payroll giving like any other fundraising channel, you can optimize your approach over time, boosting your nonprofit’s steady stream of support.

Bonus: Benefits of payroll giving for companies

While payroll giving is a win for nonprofits and donors alike, it’s also a smart move for the companies that offer it. Here’s why:

1. Strengthens Company Culture

Offering payroll giving empowers employees to support causes they care about, fostering a culture of generosity and purpose. When team members feel their employer supports their values, morale and job satisfaction naturally improve.

2. Enhances Employee Retention and Recruitment

Today’s workforce, especially younger generations, wants to work for companies that give back. A robust giving program (including payroll giving options) can help businesses attract mission-driven talent and retain employees over the long term.

3. Boosts Brand Image and CSR Impact

Payroll giving programs are a tangible way for companies to demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility (or CSR). Publicly supporting nonprofit causes—particularly those aligned with the company’s values—can enhance the brand’s perception among customers, investors, and the broader community.

4. Encourages Higher Participation Through Matching

When companies match employee donations, they signal that charitable giving is a shared priority among their teams. This not only amplifies the program’s total impact but also increases employee participation and engagement in giving.

5. Provides Data to Inform CSR Strategy

Many workplace giving platforms offer reporting tools that help employers track employee participation, top-supported causes, and total contributions. These insights can guide future CSR initiatives and strengthen community partnerships.

Bottom line: Payroll giving isn’t just good for nonprofits and donors—it’s a strategic advantage for businesses looking to lead with purpose, engage their workforce, and build lasting social impact.

Wrapping up & additional resources

Payroll giving offers the rare advantage of being easy, effective, and mutually beneficial. Donors get a seamless way to support causes they care about, often with the added bonus of employer matching. Meanwhile, nonprofits receive steady, dependable contributions without incurring additional administrative costs.

As more companies embrace workplace giving, it’s the perfect time for nonprofits to tap into this opportunity and for donors to maximize their charitable impact. When donors and nonprofits both benefit, everyone wins.

Looking for more information on all things payroll giving-related? Check out these additional recommended resources:

Make the most of the benefits of payroll giving with Double the Donation.

New Volunteer Integration Connecting Summa & Double the Donation Volunteering

New Volunteer Integration: Connecting Summa & Double the Donation Volunteering

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Double the Donation is excited to announce an expansion of its partnership with Summa, a volunteer and fundraising platform built to help mission-driven organizations engage their communities more effectively. This new, seamless integration between Double the Donation Volunteering and Summa empowers nonprofits to unlock corporate volunteer incentives, like volunteer grants and paid volunteer time off, maximizing the impact of every hour served.

With this integration, organizations can embed Double the Donation’s employer search tool directly into Summa’s volunteer signup forms, allowing volunteers to discover their eligibility for corporate programs as they register. From there, the platforms work together to deliver timely, personalized follow-up emails that guide volunteers through their employer’s next steps, making it easier than ever to turn volunteer service into additional funding for the causes they care about.

“At Summa, we believe in removing barriers between passion and impact,” says Dennis Chyba, President of Summa. “This new integration with Double the Donation Volunteering aligns perfectly with that mission, empowering volunteers to connect their service with corporate support, and helping nonprofits capture more of the funding that’s already out there. It’s a powerful step toward uniting data, action, and generosity.”

Once volunteers identify their eligibility for corporate incentives, Double the Donation Volunteering—integrated seamlessly within Summa—guides them through their employer’s process for claiming volunteer grants and paid time off. This allows organizations to transform awareness into action and helps nonprofits secure more of the available funding connected to volunteer engagement.

“We’re excited to expand our partnership with Summa to include Double the Donation Volunteering, building on our shared goal of connecting nonprofits with opportunities to expand their impact,” says Adam Weinger, President of Double the Donation. “By supporting both volunteer incentives and matching gifts, we’re helping mutual clients engage their supporters more holistically and capture more of the corporate funding available through workplace giving programs.”

Ready to get started? The Summa and Double the Donation Volunteering integration is now available for mutual clients of Double the Donation and Summa. Request a personalized demo with the Double the Donation team today, and be sure to mention that you use Summa for volunteer management!

About Summa:

Summa is a dynamic volunteer and fundraising management platform designed to help mission-driven organizations mobilize support and maximize impact. With powerful volunteer management tools at its core, Summa enables nonprofits to efficiently schedule, track, and engage volunteers—turning every hour of service into meaningful progress. From intuitive shift sign-ups to data-driven reporting, Summa helps organizations streamline operations, boost volunteer retention, and connect service with fundraising outcomes. To learn more, visit Summa.

About Double the Donation:

Automate your matching gift fundraising and corporate volunteering with the industry-leading solution from Double the Donation. The Double the Donation platform provides nonprofits with tools to identify individuals who qualify for corporate philanthropy initiatives, drive increased participation, and gain actionable insights from the programs. Double the Donation integrates directly into donation forms, CRMs, volunteer management platforms, and other nonprofit technology solutions to capture employment information and follow up with donors accordingly. To learn more, visit Double the Donation.


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