Tithing calculator

Gross or net — which should I tithe on?

Scripture doesn't give a payroll formula; it gives a principle: firstfruits — giving God the first and best, not the leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). Some Christians tithe on gross income as an expression of "first and best." Others tithe on net, reasoning they give on what actually reaches them. Faithful believers land in both places. The more useful question is usually not "which number keeps the rule" but "which number reflects a generous, worshiping heart in my situation."

Is tithing required for Christians?

The tithe (a tenth) appears in the Old Testament — Abraham's gift to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:20), and Israel's tithes supporting the Levites, the temple, and the poor. The New Testament never repeals generosity; it deepens it: "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 Corinthians 9:7). For many Christians, 10% works as a starting benchmark rather than a ceiling — a trellis for generosity to grow on, not a tax to settle.

What if I can't afford 10% right now?

Start where you are. The widow's two small coins (Mark 12:41–44) mattered more to Jesus than large gifts given from surplus. Pick a percentage you can give consistently and joyfully — even 2–3% — and grow it as God provides. Consistency shapes the heart more than the amount does. If debt or a crisis makes giving feel impossible, that's usually a sign to look at the whole financial picture, not to give up on generosity.

Where should my tithe go?

Historically, the tithe supported the local "storehouse" — for most Christians today, that means the local church that feeds them spiritually (Malachi 3:10). Giving beyond the tithe (offerings) often goes to missions, mercy ministries, and people in need. A simple pattern many use: tithe to your church, offerings wherever God moves you.