Do You Need Help Getting Right with the Government?
By America Kimlinger
During a recent partnership meeting, one of our partners asked, “Can StartCHURCH help us get this network of churches right with the government?” This simple yet powerful question highlighted a reality that many ministry leaders face: the responsibility of ensuring a church or ministry stays compliant with both state and federal regulations.
As leaders, you’re not only managing the daily demands of ministry but also keeping up with state laws, federal tax requirements, nonprofit regulations, and a constantly shifting legal landscape. It’s easy to feel lost, or like you're constantly playing catch-up. I know from conversations with many leaders that this pressure can sometimes make even the most experienced feel helpless. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to go through this alone.
With the right support and guidance, you can confidently stay in good standing with all the necessary authorities without constant worry or stress. At StartCHURCH, we’re here to walk alongside you, providing the tools, resources, and expertise you need to navigate these complex requirements.
In this blog, I want to share some practical tips to help keep you on track and make compliance easier so your ministry can focus on its true calling.
1. Keep Your 501(c)(3) Status Active
One of the most important aspects of compliance is maintaining your 501(c)(3) status.
To stay compliant:
- If you are a ministry, you must submit Form 990 (or 990-EZ, depending on your organization’s size) to the IRS each year.
- Keep track of changes to your organization’s mission, structure, or activities, and report those on your Form 990.
- Don’t miss the filing deadlines. Even if you don’t owe any taxes, failing to file your Form 990 on time can result in penalties and, in the worst-case scenario, the loss of your 501(c)(3) status.
2. Stay on Top of State and Local Requirements
Beyond federal requirements, you must comply with state and local laws. These vary from state to state, so it's important to know what applies to your location.
Some key things to watch out for:
- Charitable Contributions Registration: To receive tax-deductible donations, you must register your church or ministry according to your state's guidelines. Each state has its own rules regarding nonprofit registration—including varied forms, fees, and exemptions.
- Annual Reporting: Some states require additional annual reporting beyond the IRS filings. Check with your state’s Secretary of State or Department of Revenue to stay current.
3. Conduct Regular Reviews of Your Policies and Procedures
Staying compliant also means regularly reviewing your organization's internal policies and procedures. This includes things like:
- Proper handling of donations and financial records.
- Updating your bylaws to reflect any changes in your ministry.
4. File Your Taxes on Time
Even if you’re a nonprofit, you still have to file certain tax forms every year. Whether it’s Form 990, payroll taxes, or other state-level filings, missing deadlines can result in costly penalties. It’s important to stay ahead of these dates and file your forms promptly.
Let StartCHURCH Help You Get Compliant with the Government
Staying compliant with both state and federal governments doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach, you can ensure that your church or nonprofit meets all legal requirements and focuses on your mission.
That’s where StartCHURCH comes in. Our GetRIGHT Service provides personalized support to help you maintain compliance, navigate legal complexities, and keep your organization in good standing with both the state and federal governments.
If you’re ready to make sure your ministry is on track with all the necessary filings and regulations, give us a call at 770-638-3444. We’d love to help you stay compliant so you can focus on what matters most—serving your community.
Let us be your partner in compliance and peace of mind. Together, we’ll get you right with the government—so you can keep your ministry thriving!