Why open a Relief Chest?

• Interest Rate: A favourable interest rate is earned on the funds. The average interest rate is currently 5.74% and interest is paid gross of tax.
  
  
• Tax Relief: All eligible donations received through Gift Aid are tax efficient, so you can be confident that you are maximising your giving.
  
  Under the Government’s Gift Aid Scheme, HM Revenue and Customs gives an extra 25p for every pound you donate to The Freemasons’ Grand Charity.  In addition to this, the government will provide Transitional Relief of 3p on every pound you give.  So while we will claim 25p from each pound donated, we will actually receive 28p!  Therefore, a £100 donation from you is worth £128.20. Imagine what a difference that could make.
  
  If you want your donation to go further, Gift Aid it!
  
  Higher rate income tax payers can claim tax relief, equivalent to the difference between the higher and basic rate of tax, on donations made to The Freemasons’ Grand Charity. Since April 2004, these tax payers have had the option of also donating this tax rebate to The Freemasons’ Grand Charity. By completing the appropriate Gift Aid box on your self assessment Tax return your £100 donation will be worth £153.20 – an additional £25.00.  To secure the additional donation you must include The Grand Charity HM Revenue & Customs Reference Number ‘PAK03BG’ on your self assessment Tax Return.
  
  
• Ease of depositing: Contributions can be made into the Relief Chest by direct debit or by a single payment
  
  
• Ease of donating to charities: The Relief Chest Representative and one of the Officers (Treasurer, Almoner, Secretary, Charity Steward) authorise a payment Voucher for the benefit of the chosen Charity or a transfer of funds to be made to a Festival Relief Chest
  
  
• Free: There is no direct cost to Relief Chest Holders
  
  
• Reports: The Relief Chest representative receives an annual statement, listing all activities in the Chest. On request, interim statements and subscribers lists are also provided
  
  
• Festival Relief Chests: In addition to the normal reports the Provincial / Festival Relief Chest and holders also benefit from comprehensive performance projection reports by members and Lodges. Customised stationery is also provided for Festival Chest Holders at no extra cost