The 7 Church Documents You Need to Have Before You Grow to Avoid Getting in Trouble with the Law
Sep 24, 2025It is necessary to grow a religion, but respectful. Many churches, especially those with fewer than 100 members, get into legal problems that they didn't see coming because they don't have the necessary paperwork. These papers aren't just for show; they protect your church, its leaders, volunteers, and ministry from expensive litigation, liability, and compliance issues.
This book tells you about the seven key church paperwork you need to acquire before you can move forward. These papers will help you develop a sound legal base. This was intended for smaller churches and corresponds with the Tier 1: THE STARTUP PLAN, which helps congregations keep and grow these crucial papers.
Articles of Incorporation: This is the official document that proves your church exists.
What it is: The official document you give to your state that declares your church is not for profit.
Why it's important: When you incorporate your church, it becomes a separate legal organization from its leaders. This means that board members, pastors, and volunteers don't have to go to court or pay off debts. It's the first step you need to take to become real.
To not have to pay taxes, you need to have clear declarations about your religious purpose that follow IRS 501(c)(3) rules.
Church Bylaws: The guidelines that your church has to follow
What it is: The church's "constitution" that says how it will be governed, who will lead it, how meetings will go, and how decisions will be made.
Why it's important: The IRS will only give you tax-exempt status if you have strong bylaws. They also help the group stay out of fights and make it apparent who is in charge. Your church may have issues running and getting in trouble with the law if you don't have them.
Tip: Every so often, look over your church's bylaws to make sure they still work as the church develops and changes. They should be the correct size and fit for the church's mission.
Your church's Tax ID and Employer Identification Number (EIN) are the same thing.
What it is: The IRS grants your church a unique nine-digit number that it can use for taxes and banking.
Without an EIN, you can't lawfully open a bank account, pay taxes, or hire workers or contractors. It's a key component of how your church manages its money.
Tip: You may receive your EIN right away by filling out the IRS's online form. This might assist you in staying away from scams and costs that other people charge.
The IRS 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status Letter: This protects your church's money.
This letter from the IRS declares that your church doesn't have to pay federal taxes under section 501(c)(3).
Why it's important: This means that your church doesn't have to pay federal income tax, and those who give money can deduct their gifts, which makes it simpler to get money. If you lose it, it might be really awful for your money.
Tip: To avoid making common mistakes or having to wait a long time, get guidance from an expert to make sure your application is complete and correct.
Policy on Conflicts of Interest: Keeping Trust and Integrity Safe
What it is: A regulation that says church leaders and board members have to be honest about their own interests and not make choices that undermine the church.
Why it's important: It stops the church from doing business with itself and makes sure that leaders are honest. This is vital for following the law and winning over fans.
It is usually a good idea to obey the rules and keep signed disclosures on file.
Agreements for Employees and Volunteers: Clear Expectations and Protections
What it is: Written agreements that explain the rules, duties, and tasks that workers and volunteers must follow.
Why it's important: It clears things up, protects the church from lawsuits, and helps answer issues about harassment, safety at work, and lawsuits.
Tip: If you need to, make separate agreements for each job that include wording regarding background checks and keeping things secret.
Liability Waivers and Risk Management Policies: How to Keep Your Ministry Safe
What it is: Legal documents that declare the church isn't accountable for any damage or accidents that happen at church gatherings.
Why it's important: It makes houses of worship safer and minimizes the chances of costly lawsuits.
Tip: Use clear waiver language that is specific to your state, and make sure everyone knows it and has signed it before the festivities begin.
How the Startup Plan Helps You Get Ready and Stay Safe
The STARTUP PLAN grants churches with fewer than 900 members the following:
- You can edit legal templates to match your demands for any critical papers.
- Services for legal review: Check to see that the church's documents are legal and fit with its aim.
- These tools can help leaders learn about and practice following the rules and good governance.
- Ongoing aid with monthly legal credits and decreased hourly fees to match changing needs.
This package makes it easy and cheap for small churches to acquire support from lawyers who know what they're doing. This is really crucial for churches that are still expanding.
Last but not least, make sure your legal base is solid before you grow. You should be ready for growth before it happens. These seven papers are like a legal safety net that keeps your ministry safe, helps your leaders do their jobs well, and develops trust between your church and the people in your neighborhood.
The STARTUP PLAN can help your church develop securely and with confidence.
Links Inside
Links to Other Websites
- IRS Guide to Starting a Nonprofit
- IRS 501(c)(3) Application Process
- National Association of Church Business Administration
Notice
This blog post doesn't give you legal advice; it only gives you information. Please consult a lawyer who is allowed to provide you advice about your church.
