What is payroll giving?
Payroll giving is an easy way to donate to charity through your pay. All donations are taken before tax from your gross pay so your donation could be worth up to 45% more.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount I have to give?
No, there’s no upper or lower limit, however we recommend you give a minimum of £5 gross per month.
How much do you receive?
Donations made through your pay are topped up by the taxman by either 20%, 40% or 45% (depending on how much tax you pay).
For example, if you’re a basic tax rate payer and you donate £10 per month, Shelter receives £12.50. The taxman pays the extra!
| Monthly donation | Shelter receives (20% tax payer) | Shelter receives (40% tax payer) | Shelter receives (45% tax payer) |
|---|---|---|---|
| £5 | £6.25 | £8.33 | £9.09 |
| £10 | £12.50 | £16.67 | £18.18 |
| £15 | £18.25 | £24.99 | £27.27 |
* Please note that we have calculated that the 40% higher rate tax band starts after earning £41,450 GROSS per year (including personal allowance of £9,440) and 45% super tax is applicable to those earning over £150,000 GROSS per year (this includes any and all personal allowances that might or might not be applicable).
How do I donate to Shelter through my pay?
Just complete this online form.
How long does it take to set up?
It only takes a few minutes to fill in our online donate form, and your donation will usually be taken from your next payslip.
Are donations anonymous?
You don’t have to tell your employer who you are donating to.
How do I know you’ve received my donation?
We will write to thank you and your donation will also appear on your payslip. We may also send you updates on our work if you have told us you’re happy to receive these.
How do I cancel my donation?
Just tell your payroll department directly. You can also let us know by calling our Supporter Helpdesk on 0300 330 1234 from Monday–Friday 9am–5pm (calling this number costs less than a local-rate call).
What happens if I leave my job?
Your donation automatically stops when you leave your job. If you tell us you’re moving jobs, we can help you set up your donation in your new role.
Can I still give through my pension?
Yes, if you receive an occupational pension and your pension provider deducts tax through the PAYE system, you’re still eligible for the scheme.
Ask your occupational pension provider to make a donation from your pension before tax has been deducted.
Is there an administration fee?
Yes, but only a small one. Your employer will use a payroll giving agent to send your donation to us.
The payroll giving agents are charities that charge a small fee to cover their operating costs. Some employers pay this fee on your behalf so we receive your full donation.
If your employer doesn’t pay the fee, the payroll giving agent will deduct it from your donation before passing it on to us. This will be between a 2% and 4% charge.
I pay tax at the higher rate of 40% or 45% – how does this affect my donation?
If you pay 40% tax, each £1 you donate generates £1.66 for Shelter. If you pay 45% tax, each £1 you give generates £1.82.
What should I do if my employer doesn’t have a scheme?
Complete our online form anyway. If your company doesn’t have a scheme but would like one, we can help them set one up.
Can I give to more than one charity?
Yes, you can give to as many charities as you want.
Who can I contact for more information?
Email payrollgiving@shelter.org.uk or call our Supporter Helpdesk on 0300 330 1234 from Monday–Friday 9am–5pm (calling this number costs less than a local rate call).