Reviewing Your Church’s Employment Policies and Practices
An annual human resources audit can reduce any church's legal liabilities. Here's how.
Employment
Hiring, termination, compensation and benefit law, discrimination, privacy, minimum wage, overtime, payday laws, workers’ compensation, worker classification
Why Church Employees Should Review Their W-4 Forms Annually
December is a great time for church employees to review their W-4 forms to ensure proper tax withholding. Changes in income, dependents, or expenses can impact tax liability, making updates essential.
Shifting Someone From Volunteer to Staff Person
Knowing when it's time to turn someone from volunteer into church staff employee.
Understanding Employment Contracts and Policies in Churches: Case Studies
Employment policies in churches often face legal challenges, from the enforceability of non-compete clauses to the requirement of consideration for policy changes. Learn how to navigate these issues effectively while maintaining fairness and compliance.
Effective Strategies for Navigating Difficult Conversations with Your Church Team
Navigating tough conversations with your church team doesn’t have to be daunting. Pastor Karl Vaters shares eight practical tips, from leading with positivity to correcting with grace, to help you address challenges without losing trust or morale.
Avoiding Discrimination When Conducting Background Checks
Conducting background checks for church employees is essential for safety but must be done responsibly to avoid discrimination and legal risks. Learn best practices, including timing, tailored policies, and compliance with federal and state laws.
Managing Volunteers on Workers’ Compensation: Key Considerations for Churches
Discover how churches can manage volunteers on workers’ compensation, including liability concerns and compliance with state laws.
How to Handle Challenging Church Volunteers with Grace and Wisdom
Discover how to handle difficult volunteer situations in your church, from identifying causes of failure to offering support and terminating gracefully. Foster healing and guide volunteers toward roles that amplify their gifts.
Best Practices for Employment Risk Management in Ministries
Discover how ministries can reduce employment risks with strategies like detailed record-keeping, legal counsel, updated policies, and insurance coverage.
Screening Minors for Church Volunteer Roles: Best Practices
Churches often rely on minors to assist in youth programs. Learn effective screening methods, including reference checks and community practices, to ensure safety and reduce liability.
Resolving Church Staff Disputes: The Role of Mediation and Arbitration
Discover the advantages of mediation and arbitration for resolving church disputes. Reduce costs, preserve relationships, and align with biblical principles by adopting a clear arbitration policy.
Legal Guidelines for Interview Questions About Attendance
Understand how to address attendance concerns legally during church hiring interviews. Explore compliant questions that avoid discrimination and align with federal, state, and local regulations.
Resolving Church Office Conflict: Biblical Principles and Practical Steps
Discover practical and biblical strategies to resolve church office conflicts. From acknowledging issues to seeking feedback and engaging in honest conversations.
Disciplinary Suspension of Church Ministry Leaders: Legal Considerations and Best Practices
Suspending a church ministry leader due to misconduct involves legal complexities, including employment classification, discrimination risks, and compliance with church policies. Learn what factors to consider and why legal consultation is essential.
Right Person, Wrong Position: Navigating Staff Transitions in Church Leadership
Letting go of a church staff member who isn’t the right fit is never easy. This article offers biblical and practical advice for handling transitions with integrity, dignity, and care for both the individual and the church.
Q&A: Creating a “Paid Time Off” Policy
Many churches are adopting a PTO (Paid Time Off) policy to replace traditional leave structures. Discover the benefits, legal requirements, and procedural considerations for implementing PTO for church staff.
Pastor Emeritus Status: Key Considerations for Churches
Before granting a retiring pastor the title of pastor emeritus, churches must carefully review compensation agreements, legal responsibilities, and tax obligations. Learn the key factors to consider for a smooth transition.
Managing Health Risks in Children’s Ministry: Balancing Safety and Inclusion
When a nursery worker has Hepatitis B, churches must balance child safety, worker inclusion, and leadership policies. Learn how to assess risks, develop response plans, and create informed policies for your ministry.
Legal Considerations for Church Layoffs: Protecting Your Ministry
Layoffs in a church setting require careful planning to ensure compliance with employment laws and ethical considerations. Learn how to protect your church, navigate discrimination risks, and manage severance, benefits, and legal obligations.
Non-Compete Agreements for Pastoral Staff: Are They Legal?
Non-compete agreements can limit a pastor’s ability to work at a nearby church after resignation or dismissal. Learn how these agreements work, their legal enforceability, and best practices for churches considering such clauses.