Retirement planning for pastors isn’t just about choosing the next leader - it’s about financial security, healthcare, and peace of mind. Boards and pastors can prevent costly surprises by planning for this next chapter now.

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A mid-career financial planning check-up can have a profound impact on a pastor’s retirement and sort out complex issues before they ever arise. Failure to plan for retirement affects more than just the individual and their spouse. Ultimately, it has a significant impact on the church.

Retirement and financial planning may not be top of mind when starting ministry, but decisions made early in a career can have a profound impact on a minister, their family, and the church they serve

After misconduct has been properly addressed, the board faces the often difficult reality of moving forward. It will take time and intentional effort to rebuild trust with staff and the church body, but do not be discouraged. You have been placed in your role, at this time, for a purpose.

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Restoration to Christ is always possible where there is Godly sorrow and repentance. Restoration to a pastoral position (employment position) may not be possible, even where Godly sorrow and repentance exist. So, how does a board know when a pastor is eligible for restoration to a pastoral position?

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A Leave of Absence allows the decision-makers time to understand what really transpired and the seriousness of the allegations or confessed misconduct. It creates space and safety for all parties involved.

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Some misconduct issues are abundantly clear, and termination is warranted. Decision makers must hold the tension. Mismanagement in addressing misconduct causes a significant level of collateral damage and is an area of incredible legal and financial vulnerability.

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Misconduct in churches and ministries causes a significant level of collateral damage. When addressing misconduct, let legal factors guide the decision-making process.

Marriage and Sexual conduct are legal and financial risk areas for churches and ministries. Properly dealing with sexual misconduct is vital to the health of an organization, while strengthening and encouraging existing relationships is equally important and effective.

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No one wants to find themselves at either end of a furlough. Proper policy planning, understanding, and implementation can help ministry leaders navigate an incredibly difficult situation.

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Checking to ensure employment policies are up to date and implemented properly is vital to the health of an organization. Here are four employment policies you should check in the first quarter of 2025.

Even though churches and nonprofits aren't considered "businesses" in the traditional sense, their employees can still be governed by FLSA laws. The FLSA divides employees into two categories - Exempt or Nonexempt.

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations and implement an "interactive process." A good PWFA policy will help protect your organization from legal pitfalls and safeguard compliance.

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If compensation is not “reasonable” as described in regulation 1.162-7(b)(3), the IRS can penalize the individual recipient, the board members who approved the income, and the organization itself.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can initially feel confusing, but with proper understanding, it is fairly easy to implement and maintain.

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Ministerial Exception protects churches, nonprofits, and other religious institutions from employment discrimination laws when hiring or firing ministers. Understanding the benefits and requirements of the law will allow you to utilize it to help further your organization. 

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There are many misconceptions, and often confusion, regarding legal rights that churches and nonprofits hold. FMLA can be frustrating and sometimes feels like a trap for the unwary and unprepared. A good FMLA policy is critical and will help keep your organization in compliance.

There are so many benefits to having an attorney in your corner, especially one that understands and supports your vision.

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We focus on structuring not-for-profit ventures and understand the unique challenges nonprofit organizations face. We can help you secure and maintain your nonprofit status and interests.

Estate planning is important for pastors too! What tools should every pastor consider: