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Should My Church Consider a Merger Right Now?
On-Demand Webinar: The critical information church leaders should know if they are thinking about a merger.
Incorporation
Recommended Reading
Church Mergers: When, Why, and How
From consideration to final steps, let the experts guide you each step of the way.
Board Member Checklist
Nine questions to help you understand your role and responsibilities.
Advantage Member Exclusive
15 Things Richard Hammar Wants Pastors to Know
On-Demand Webinar: Attorney Richard R. Hammar identifies 15 topics that frequently trip up pastors and church administrators.
15 Things Richard Hammar Wants Pastors to Know
Incorporation
Learn the fundamentals of incorporating a church and how it affects church governance.
15 Things Richard Hammar Wants Pastors to Know
Insights to help you successfully navigate the complexities of church administration.
Church Governance
What leaders must know to conduct legally sound church business.
“Accountings” of Church Funds
Key point 6-03.02. Most courts have viewed requests by church members for an “accounting” of
Charters, Constitutions, Bylaws, and Resolutions
Key point 6-02.02. Churches are subject to the provisions of their governing documents, which generally
The Incorporation Process
Key point 6-02.01. In many states, churches can incorporate either under the Model Nonprofit Corporation
Creation and Administration
Key point 6-01.03. A church is an unincorporated association if it is not a corporation
Corporations
The legal disabilities connected with the unincorporated association form of organization persuade many churches to
Unincorporated Associations
In general, any church that is not a corporation is an unincorporated association. The term
Church Documents and Records
Information every board member should be familiar with.
Bylaws, Constitutions, and Charters
Most courts refuse to intervene in church disputes concerning the validity of a membership meeting that was not conducted in accordance with the procedural requirements.
Church Board’s Attempts to Amend Articles of Incorporation Ruled Invalid
A Florida court said procedural requirements were not followed.
Unincorporated Churches
A Colorado court ruled that an officer of a nonprofit unincorporated association was not personally liable for compensation that the association had failed to pay to former employees.
Recent Developments in Indiana Regarding Church Reportig Obligations
A federal court in Indiana ruled that an independent church was not exempt from paying more than $5 million in unpaid payroll taxes.
Recent Developments in Indiana Regarding Unincorporated Churches
The Indiana Supreme Court ruled that members of an unincorporated church can sue their church for injuries they suffer on church property or in the course of church activities.
Recent Developments in Ohio Regarding Church Business Meetings
An Ohio court ruled that the members of a nonprofit corporation could not vote by proxy at a special business meeting since proxy voting was not authorized in the corporation's articles of incorporation or bylaws.