Book Description

Is your church vulnerable to fraud?One-third of all congregations experience theft, but researchers estimate 80 percent of cases go unreported and expect church financial fraud to reach $60 billion by 2025. Those are staggering statistics, but sadly this is a common problem that most church leadership prefer to ignore. "Not in our fellowship," they resolutely affirm. However, no individual is immune to temptation and studies show that the number one deterrent is fear of getting caught. The vast majority (87%) of the perpetrators have never been charged with fraud or embezzlement before.Pastors, elders, and trustees have an obligation to safeguard their ministry and shepherd the flock. This includes practices and procedures that prevent an easy stumble down the slippery slope of creative bookkeeping and skimming the church offering. Preventing Fraud in Church Accounting is a quick read for busy leadership. It exposes the problem and outlines the basics of the solution, including options for taking action. It's the perfect primer to educate the senior pastor or the young volunteer. It even includes a free confidential analysis of your church's financial status quo.The first step to a solution is knowledge, but the education process can seem overwhelming. Not with this short book. It can be read together in one committee meeting and will guide leadership to:* Examine two major problems with pastors functioning as Chief Financial Officer* Recognize three categories of fraud and how they apply to churches and nonprofits* Learn the types of internal controls that will decrease the risk of theft* Understand how the budget creation and review process creates accountability for ministry leaders* Explore what a full accounting plan of formal financial processes and reports entailsPastors, board members, treasurers, and anyone concerned about the safety of their ministry and mission can't afford to NOT read this book.