Am I Giving For The Right Reasons? » Audio Archive » Faith & Finance

Faith & Finance

Christian talk radio with Rob West

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Broadcast Episode

Monday, January 13

Am I Giving For The Right Reasons?

When the topic of generosity comes up in church, reactions can be mixed. Some tune out, assuming the message is about funding a project or filling a financial gap. But generosity is about much more than meeting needs—it’s about the heart behind the act. Let’s explore not only why we should give but also why we shouldn’t and how to cultivate a heart for biblical generosity.

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About Faith & Finance

How does your faith in Jesus influence your daily financial decisions? As believers, our faith must be the foundation of our financial stewardship, which is why we're excited to announce that the MoneyWise radio show is now Faith & Finance. Join Rob West and special guests as they address today’s financial questions with biblical answers. To be a part of the broadcast, call 1 (800) 525-7000 or you can email your questions to: [email protected]

How does your faith in Jesus influence your daily financial decisions? As believers, our faith must be the foundation of our financial stewardship, which is why we're excited to announce that the MoneyWise radio show is now Faith & Finance. Join Rob West and special guests as they address today’s financial questions with biblical answers. To be a part of the broadcast, call 1 (800) 525-7000 or you can email your questions to: [email protected]

More from Faith & Finance

Broadcast Episode

Today

How to Choose a Trustworthy Tax Preparer This Tax Season

The holidays are behind us; you know what that means—it’s tax season! But before you start gathering your W-2s and receipts, there’s an important question: Do you know who will prepare your taxes this year? With a nationwide shortage of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and tax professionals, waiting too long to find a preparer could leave you scrambling—and vulnerable to scams. Here’s how to protect yourself and find a trusted tax preparer. Who Can Prepare Your Taxes? When hiring a tax professional, your preparer will likely fall into one of three categories: Certified Public Accountant (CPA): These professionals undergo rigorous education, exams, and licensing requirements. Many specialize in tax preparation and can also provide broader financial guidance.  Enrolled Agent (EA): Licensed by the IRS, EAs are tax experts who can prepare and file returns, represent clients before the IRS, and provide tax planning services.  Tax Attorney: These legal professionals specialize in tax law and are particularly useful for complex tax situations, audits, or disputes. Each of these professionals is highly qualified—but the problem is there aren’t enough of them. There is a growing shortage of CPAs and tax professionals, mainly because fewer young people are entering the field. Some firms are even hiring high school interns at $22 an hour to recruit future CPAs. What does this mean for you? Longer wait times to book a tax preparerHigher fees due to increased demandGreater risk of falling into the hands of fraudulent preparersWhen people are desperate to file their returns, they can become easy targets for scammers who fake credentials or engage in tax fraud. How to Avoid Tax Scams and Find a Qualified PreparerTo protect yourself, follow these IRS-recommended steps when choosing a tax preparer: 1. Choose a Year-Round Tax PreparerA reputable preparer should be available beyond tax season. You don’t want your tax preparer to disappear if you get audited. 2. Verify Their IRS CredentialsAsk for the IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). All paid tax return preparers must register with the IRS and enter their PTIN on every return they file. Check their status using the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers at IRS. gov. 3. Look for Professional CredentialsAsk if the preparer holds a credential such as: CPA (Check with the State Board of Accountancy)Enrolled Agent (Verify at IRS. gov under "Verify Enrolled Agent Status")Tax Attorney (Confirm with their State Bar Association)Additionally, inquire about continuing education—since tax laws change frequently, professionals should stay current. 4. Be Cautious About FeesBeware of tax preparers who: Charge fees based on a percentage of your refundClaim they can get you a larger refund than competitorsA legitimate preparer should charge a flat or hourly rate based on the complexity of your return. 5. Verify IRS E-File CapabilityMost tax preparers handling more than 10 clients must file electronically. If your preparer refuses to e-file, that’s a red flag. 6. Ensure Proper DocumentationA trustworthy tax preparer will ask for the following: Your W-2 and 1099 forms (not just a pay stub)Records of deductions and creditsIf a preparer doesn’t ask for supporting documents, walk away. The IRS requires proper documentation to verify your return. 7. Understand Representation RulesOnly CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys can represent you before the IRS if you're audited. Non-credentialed tax preparers—including your math-savvy cousin Bill—cannot represent you in an audit. 8. Never Sign a Blank or Incomplete Tax ReturnPlease review your return carefully before signing. Ensure all information is accurate, and ask questions if anything appears incorrect. 9. Your Refund Should Go to You—Not the PreparerCheck the routing and account number on your tax return to ensure your refund is deposited into your own account, not your preparer’s. Looking for a Faith-Based Financial Professional? If you want to work with a tax professional who aligns with biblical financial principles, consider finding a CPA, Enrolled Agent, or tax attorney with the Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) designation. To find a trusted, faith-based financial professional, visit FaithFi.comand click “Find a Professional. ”With tax season here, choosing a reputable, qualified tax preparer is more important than ever. Don’t wait until the last minute—start your search today to avoid scams and ensure your taxes are filed accurately and ethically. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: As I turn 70 and a half, is it advantageous for me to start doing my charitable giving from my IRA? Or should I wait until 73, when I have to do the required minimal distribution (RMD)? I have $10, 000 in a savings account with my local bank, but I only earn about 10 cents in monthly interest. Since I've never invested before, I'm interested in investing that money elsewhere to create some extra available money. What would you suggest? I ran a landscaping company into the ground, but I've now rededicated my life to Christ and started a new handyman business. I need help managing the money in my company and being a better steward of the resources God has entrusted me with. I'm looking for guidance on the best direction to take. Considering Trump is now in his second term, would it be a good time for me to sell my house and buy another home? Should I wait? I'm thinking about the potential impact on prices and interest rates. Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationBankrateChristian Community Credit Union (CCCU)Business By The Book: Complete Guide of Biblical Principles for the Workplace by Larry BurkettLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App

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Broadcast Episode

Yesterday

Transforming the Lives of the Poor with Kelly Miller

“Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” - Proverbs 22:9 Do you have a generous heart—one that seeks out opportunities to bless others, especially those in need? Today, Kelly Miller joins us to share a powerful way you can not only support the poor around the world but also help bring lasting transformation to their lives. Kelly Miller is the CEO and President of Cross International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

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Broadcast Episode

Tuesday, February 4

Teaching Generosity to Kids with Dr. Art Rainer

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” - 3 John 1:4 In that verse, the Apostle John praises his friend Gaius and other believers for their generosity toward missionaries. As parents, we want our children to be generous toward God’s Kingdom. Dr. Art Rainer joins us today with some steps we can take to grow our kids in generosity. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is also the author of The Money Challenge: 30 Days of Discovering God's Design for You and Your Money and the Secret Slide Money Club, a book series designed to teach young readers about God’s way of being wise with money.

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Broadcast Episode

Monday, February 3

Navigating Giving with an Unbelieving Spouse with Ron Blue

You want to give generously to your church, but your non-believing spouse objects. What do you do? We occasionally get that question, and it’s a situation that must be handled with care. If you or someone you know is in that position, don’t miss today’s program, as Ron Blue is here with some sage advice. Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

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Broadcast Episode

Friday, January 31

How Asking For Help Glorifies God

Many of us are quick to offer help to others but struggle when it comes to asking for help ourselves. Why is that? As Christians, we are known for our generosity and willingness to assist those in need. However, when it’s our turn to seek help, we often hesitate. Let’s explore why that is—and why asking for help is not only okay but also glorifies God.

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