A nationwide survey of more than 700 church leaders conducted by Church Law & Tax showed that nearly one-third have served in congregations that suffered from some form of financial misconduct. Half occurred within just the past 10 years.
Those victimized by some type of fraud said their congregations didn’t utilize internal controls and other precautions necessary to prevent misconduct, often because there was a belief such misconduct “couldn’t happen to us.”
Below is a collection of articles, webinars, and training designed to increase your church’s awareness of how financial misconduct happens, red flags to watch for, ways to prevent malfeasance, and steps to take when suspected or actual fraud arises.
You can find the links to the articles here
Fraud in the Church: What We Learned from 700 Church Leaders
Discover the results of our 2021 church fraud survey and the best practices for reducing vulnerabilities.
CPA Vonna Laue and Content Editor Matthew Branaugh
Every Church Is at Risk for Fraud. Here’s Why.
Church Law & Tax’s nationwide survey shows churches of all sizes, ages, and locations are susceptible to financial misconduct.
Matthew J. Branaugh
Loved and Trusted: What Shocks Us Most About Fraud Perpetrators
A closer look at the men and women who steal from churches—and the red flags leaders should watch for.
Matthew J. Branaugh
Reporting Financial Crime as a Matter of Stewardship
When misconduct arises, contacting the authorities is an act of safeguarding God’s resources.
Richard R. Hammar
Protect Your Church’s Financial Health
How internal controls disrupt the fraud triangle.
Vonna Laue
How Fraud Happens in Churches
Preventing financial malfeasance in God’s treasury.
Interview by Bobby Ross Jr.
Financial Integrity Starts with the Right Team
Reduce the risk of fraud by creating a team that incorporates solid internal control.
Chris Lutes
Whistleblower Policies and Church Culture
Protect financial strength and integrity by creating a culture of openness.
Samuel Ogles
How a Church Responded When a Trusted Minister Embezzled Funds
Experts weigh in during a panel discussion on what happened.
Lee A. Dean