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The Church Attorney Consulting Services, LLC

Protect Your Church’s Tax-Exempt Status

Published 8 months ago • 2 min read

Hello Reader,

If you've been around for any time, you may know how much I love long walks in nature. Seeing the Spring flowers and busy bees (literally!) reminds me how Spring can bring a renewed energy and purpose. It's also the perfect time to ensure your church is aligned with its mission—both spiritually and legally. At The Church Attorney®, we're dedicated to equipping you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of church law.​

🎙️ New Podcast Episode: The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining Your Church's Tax-Exempt Status

In our latest episode of The Church Law Podcast, Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, delves into the critical aspects of preserving your church's 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. With over 25 years of experience guiding ministries of all sizes, Erika unpacks:​

  • The true meaning of tax exemption for churches
  • Top five common pitfalls that jeopardize tax-exempt status
  • Real-life cautionary tales from churches that lost their exemption
  • Practical steps to avoid IRS scrutiny and safeguard your ministry's financial future​

This episode is essential for church leaders committed to leading with legal confidence.

I also recognize that it's a challenging time in our nation for many nonprofits that are feeling the threat of loss of tax-exempt status. The goal of this episode is to share legal insights from an unbiased view, but know that your concerns are both valid and understood.

📚 Upcoming Scholarship Webinar: Empowering Your Ministry

Just like our recent webinar on church bylaws, we have a new upcoming webinar that is on a topic you requested! Just in time for school graduations and scholarship season, join us for this webinar focused on how your church can provide scholarships the right way. Discover the need-to-know rules and resources that can support your ministry's growth and sustainability.​

📅 Date: May 13th 🕒 Time: 12 PM ET

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This Week's Law News

Erika Cole was recently quoted in Christianity Today on a high-profile lawsuit involving Houston’s Second Baptist Church and changes to its bylaws. The case highlights growing legal concerns around church governance and leadership transitions. Read the full article here.​

Save the Date: Church Compliance Conference — Join the Waitlist Now!

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Join church leaders across the nation when you secure your spot at the premier legal and compliance event for churches — the 18th annual Church Compliance Conference. This event has been listed as a "must attend" for church leaders by Church Law & Tax. Join the waitlist now for early access to tickets, exclusive updates, and insider information!

Blessings,

This email is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, accounting, or tax advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. The information provided here was based on certain federal and/or state statutes and does not encompass all applicable requirements or other regulations that may exist, such as local ordinances or case law.

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6925 Oakland Mills Rd Box 171, Columbia, MD 21045

The Church Attorney Consulting Services, LLC

The Church Attorney®

As The Church Attorney®, denominations and churches select my proprietary Legal Audit System to position themselves to operate in integrity, avoid IRS audits, and position themselves for growth. Every church leader should take advantage of my free Church Law podcast and subscribe to my free newsletter.

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