January 16, 2025

STREETSBORO, OH — The Carl Spackler Open, Inc., a dedicated non-profit organization with over 20 years of experience managing its golf event, is enhancing its payment process to better serve participants. As a non-profit (not a charity), the organization has consistently prioritized transparency and efficiency in handling funds, which are managed through its own EIN and bank account.

Previously reliant on PayPal and personal checks—and briefly utilizing Venmo in 2022—the organization faced new tax filing requirements due to high transaction volumes on Venmo. This led to Venmo's discontinuation. Seeking a cost-effective and user-friendly solution, Carl Spackler Open, Inc. discovered Zeffy in 2023.

Zeffy, a platform designed specifically for non-profits, offers fee-free processing for credit and debit card payments. This innovative platform eliminates transaction fees, reduces administrative complexity, and avoids tax complications. Additionally, Zeffy provides free software tools that are expected to lighten the workload for Rick Dosky, the organization’s primary administrator.

Starting in 2025, participants will see the Zeffy logo integrated into the registration caddy and balance pages on the Carl Spackler Open website. This logo will serve as a direct link for making deposits or settling balances. PayPal (with fees) and mailed personal checks will remain as alternative payment methods.

Important Details for Participants:

Terminology on Zeffy: Zeffy labels all payments as “donations.” Whether you're making a $200 deposit, paying in full, or clearing an outstanding balance, the platform will process it as a donation. While this doesn’t change the transaction’s purpose, participants should be aware of the terminology.

Support for Zeffy: Zeffy operates financially through optional donations. The payment page includes a suggested contribution to Zeffy, but users can adjust this amount, including setting it to $0.

Participants are reminded to ensure their payments are received and reflected accurately on the website. Since Rick updates payments in batches, consolidating multiple payments into one or two per year can help streamline the process. If discrepancies arise—such as payments not appearing in posted batches—participants should contact Rick promptly.

The Carl Spackler Open, Inc. remains committed to improving participant experiences and ensuring seamless payment processes for all involved. The addition of Zeffy marks a significant step forward in achieving these goals.

For more information, please visit [Carl Spackler Open’s website] or contact Rick Dosky directly.