Federal and state law provide churches with numerous exemptions and exceptions to taxes of various kinds. Many tax advantages apply automatically, while others may require some paperwork. All of [...]
Most religious organizations start out focused on local work, perhaps with an eye toward developing a network with like-minded groups located elsewhere. But the contemporary landscape of [...]
Insurance is often a big budget item for any organization. Keeping premium costs down is important, but sometimes a policy is necessary to manage risks, whether from physical damage and injuries [...]
Churches that have chosen to incorporate will need to select a board of directors that will oversee church management and finances. A church’s director has certain fiduciary duties with respect [...]
Clergy of many faiths are often asked by members of their congregation to keep confidences and give advice about difficult topics. In the course of their work, ministers of various faiths may [...]
Many religious communities that are still working toward a goal of one day owning their own place of worship opt to rent their space instead. Like any renter, a church can have disputes with its [...]
As churches grow and begin to hire part- or full-time staff to handle administrative duties, the church’s employment obligations become more complex. To protect the church from legal risk, [...]
Like any other organization, nonprofit or otherwise, a church needs to enter into contracts with other organizations as part of its operations. As churches grow or establish long histories, [...]
For historical and theological reasons, many religious traditions take a skeptical view of state interference with church affairs. The laws adopted by governments can be sharply at odds with the [...]
Politicians and political organizations are always looking for ways to get their message in front of as many people as possible. Churches, with their reliable audiences and shared values, can be [...]