At one time there was a set fee for each publication (except the two-page tracts) distributed. But, under the looming threat of a sales tax, they had to change the process to a 'voluntary donation' program.
But typically, this is how it goes: A JW will go to the back counter in a Hall, usually after a meeting, and tell the Servant how many of this book, that magamzine, and the other thing they want. For the field service (door-to-door preaching) work, they usually have all the items in stock. When a JW wants something not kept in stock, the Servant will order it from the Watchtower Head office - Brooklyn in the US. While the Servant is counting out mags, or immediately thereafter, the 'customer' will put money in a donation box. The fee per item is understood, it is just a nominally gratuity to get around the sales tax.
At this point, the item is the property of the 'publisher.' When asking for a donation 'to cover the cost of printing,' they will usually quote the figure paid at the counter in the Hall. It goes in their pocket, and stays there until they need more stuff to leave at people's doors.
I don't know the current 'suggested list price' of the materials.
No, the dubbies don't practice any form of tithing.
Edited by - buster on 15 February 2003 13:54:28