Tithing is a time-honored practice for many Christians, symbolizing gratitude and trust in God’s provision. But when it comes to the practical side—how to calculate tithe from salary—it can get confusing. Should you base it on your gross pay before taxes or on your take-home amount? What about bonuses or overtime?
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to calculate tithe from salary, drawing on both biblical principles and practical financial wisdom to help you give with confidence. To make it even easier, try our free tithe calculator on the homepage at tithecalc.com—it’s quick, user-friendly, and helps you get started instantly. Whether you’re new to giving or refining your approach, learning how to calculate tithe from salary can transform your financial stewardship.
What Is Tithing? Understanding the Biblical Foundation
Before we explain how to calculate tithe from salary, it’s important to understand what tithing means. The word “tithe” literally means “tenth.” In Scripture, it’s presented as a way to honor God by giving Him the first portion of what we earn.
Leviticus 27:30 says that a tenth of everything belongs to the Lord. Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek in Genesis 14 shows that tithing was an act of worship even before the Law of Moses. In the Old Testament, tithing supported the Levites, the poor, and the community. In the New Testament, 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds believers to give cheerfully and purposefully, showing that giving is about the heart more than the percentage.
Today, calculating tithe from salary isn’t just about numbers—it’s a way to acknowledge God’s ownership over your finances and practice faithful stewardship.
Gross Income vs. Net Income: The Key Debate When You Calculate Tithe from Salary
One of the most common questions about how to calculate tithe from salary is whether to base it on gross or net income.
Gross income is your total pay before any deductions like taxes or insurance.
Net income is what you actually take home after those deductions.
The difference can be significant. For example, if you earn $60,000 a year before taxes, you might only bring home around $45,000 after deductions. That means a 10% tithe on gross income would be $6,000 per year, while 10% on net income would be $4,500.
Why Some People Tithe on Gross Income
Those who tithe on gross income believe it follows the biblical principle of giving God the “firstfruits” of all your increase (Proverbs 3:9). Since God owns everything—including what goes to taxes—this approach symbolizes putting Him first in all things. It’s also simple and straightforward when you calculate tithe from salary.
Why Others Choose Net Income
Others prefer to tithe on what actually reaches their bank account, seeing that as the money they directly control. In places with high taxes, tithing on gross income can feel unrealistic. Scripture doesn’t dictate a specific method, so the choice often comes down to conviction and practicality.
Our take: Start with gross income if possible, but pray and seek counsel from your pastor if you’re unsure. The heart behind your giving matters more than the formula. You can also experiment with both approaches using the tithe calculator at tithecalc.com to see which one feels sustainable for your household.
Step-by-Step: How to Calculate Tithe from Salary
Once you’ve decided whether to tithe on gross or net income, the math is straightforward. Here’s exactly how to calculate tithe from salary in three simple steps:
Step 1: Identify Your Income Base
Look at your pay stub or W-2 form. Find your total annual earnings (gross) or your take-home pay (net). If you have side income—like freelance work or commissions—add that in to get a full picture of your income when you calculate tithe from salary.
Step 2: Calculate 10%
Simply take 10% of your chosen income base. For example, if you earn $50,000 a year, your annual tithe would be $5,000. If your take-home pay is $38,000, your tithe would be $3,800.
Step 3: Break It Down by Pay Period
If you’re paid monthly, divide your annual tithe by 12. If you’re paid every two weeks, divide it by 26. If you’re paid weekly, divide by 52.
Here’s a quick reference for how to calculate tithe from salary based on common income levels:
| Annual Gross Salary | Monthly Tithe (10%) | Bi-Weekly Tithe (10%) | Weekly Tithe (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $30,000 | $250 | $115.38 | $57.69 |
| $60,000 | $500 | $230.77 | $115.38 |
| $100,000 | $833.33 | $384.62 | $192.31 |
Setting up automatic giving through your church’s app or bank can make tithing effortless and consistent.
Handling Bonuses, Overtime, and Other Income
Not all income is predictable, so how do you calculate tithe from salary when your paycheck fluctuates?
Bonuses: Give 10% of any bonus right away before spending it.
Overtime or commissions: You can either tithe from each check or average your earnings and tithe periodically.
Freelance or side work: Set aside 10% of every payment as it comes in, or estimate your annual income and adjust later.
The general rule is simple: if it counts as income, it’s part of your increase—and it’s an opportunity to give back.
How to Calculate Tithe from Salary in Retirement
Knowing how to calculate tithe from salary doesn’t stop when the paychecks do—it just looks a little different.
Social Security: Avoid double-tithing. If you tithed faithfully on your income during your working years, you don’t need to tithe again on those contributions. You may choose to tithe on any amount that exceeds what you originally paid in.
Pensions and annuities: Tithe on your regular monthly payments.
401(k) or IRA withdrawals: If your contributions were made pre-tax, tithe on the withdrawn amount as it represents new income.
As always, talk to a trusted pastor or financial advisor if you’re unsure about your specific situation.
Practical Tips for Making Tithing Simple and Sustainable
Once you’ve learned how to calculate tithe from salary, it’s time to make it part of your routine.
Automate it. Set up a recurring transfer on payday.
Track your giving. Keep digital or paper records for tax purposes—donations to registered churches are tax-deductible.
Explore smart giving strategies. Donating appreciated stocks, or making charitable distributions from retirement accounts (for those over 70½), can help you give wisely and save on taxes.
The tithe calculator at tithecalc.com can help you plan your giving and see how it fits into your overall budget.
Give with Joy, Not Obligation
Learning how to calculate tithe from salary is about more than formulas—it’s about faith, gratitude, and trust. Whether you tithe on gross or net, the heart behind your giving is what matters most.
Start today: review your income, pray about your decision, and commit to giving faithfully. Your generosity will bless your church, strengthen your community, and deepen your walk with God.