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.
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.
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.
Churches can raise tax-deductible funds for music ministry, but direct donations for accompanists may not qualify. Here’s what to know about designated funds.
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.
Letting go of a church staff member who isn’t the right fit is never easy. This guide offers biblical and practical advice for handling transitions with integrity, dignity, and care for both the individual and the church.
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 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.
Many churches mistakenly believe they can offer comp time instead of overtime pay. However, under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), private employers must pay non-exempt employees overtime for hours worked beyond 40 in a single workweek. Learn how to handle overtime correctly to stay compliant.
Church leaders may consider polygraph testing when dealing with staff misconduct, but federal law imposes strict limits. Learn how the Employee Polygraph Protection Act applies to churches, key exemptions, and legal best practices.
Churches have flexibility in determining severance pay, but legal and financial factors must be considered. Learn how to structure severance agreements, mitigate legal risks, and ensure compliance with tax laws.
Discover the tax implications of reclassifying an employee as self-employed, including IRS guidelines, potential penalties, and compliance strategies for churches.
