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	    <div id="ajax-load-more" class="ajax-load-more-wrap infinite fading-circles" data-id="" data-canonical-url="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/" data-slug="blog"><ul class="alm-listing alm-ajax   resource_posts" data-repeater="default" data-post-type="blog" data-post-format="" data-category="" data-category-not-in="" data-tag="" data-tag-not-in="" data-taxonomy="blog-categories" data-taxonomy-terms="" data-taxonomy-operator="IN" data-taxonomy-relation="" data-meta-key="" data-meta-value="" data-meta-compare="" data-meta-relation="" data-meta-type="" data-year="" data-month="" data-day="" data-author="" data-post-in="" data-post-not-in="" data-exclude="" data-search="" data-custom-args="" data-post-status="" data-order="DESC" data-orderby="date" data-offset="0" data-posts-per-page="12" data-lang="" data-scroll="true" data-scroll-distance="300" data-max-pages="0" data-pause-override="false" data-pause="false" data-button-label="Older Posts" data-button-class="" data-destroy-after="" data-transition="fade" data-images-loaded="false"></ul></div><!--
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                <li class="post" id="post-6968">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/improve-your-future-with-a-gift-that-pays-you/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/ag-financial-planned-giving-charitable-gift-annuity-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="ag financial planned giving charitable gift annuity" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/ag-financial-planned-giving-charitable-gift-annuity-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/ag-financial-planned-giving-charitable-gift-annuity-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/ag-financial-planned-giving-charitable-gift-annuity.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/improve-your-future-with-a-gift-that-pays-you/" ">Improve Your Future With a Gift That Pays You</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6868">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/how-to-deal-with-sexual-misconduct-in-your-church-video/" ">How to Deal With Sexual Misconduct in Your Church (Video)</a></h4><p><p>Sexual misconduct with a minor is the number one reason churches end up in court. Pastors and church leaders need to be aware of it and know how to respond if this horrible event takes place in their church.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6866">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/know-what-questions-to-ask-when-considering-a-church-loan/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20_questions_1954-1-218x109.jpg" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="20_questions_1954 (1)" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/know-what-questions-to-ask-when-considering-a-church-loan/" ">Know What Questions to Ask When Considering a Church Loan</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6865">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/teach-your-kids-about-generosity-not-just-money/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_kids_and_money-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="ag_financial_kids_and_money" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_kids_and_money-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_kids_and_money-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_kids_and_money.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/teach-your-kids-about-generosity-not-just-money/" ">Teach Your Kids About Generosity, Not Just Money</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6864">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/the-2016-ministers-tax-guide-is-here/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/2016_ministers_tax_guide_ag_financial-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="2016_ministers_tax_guide_ag_financial" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/2016_ministers_tax_guide_ag_financial-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/2016_ministers_tax_guide_ag_financial-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/2016_ministers_tax_guide_ag_financial.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/the-2016-ministers-tax-guide-is-here/" ">The 2016 Minister&#8217;s Tax Guide is Here</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6863">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/a-volatile-market-discovering-your-risk-tolerance/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/volatile_market_ag_financial_stock_market_floor-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="volatile_market_ag_financial_stock_market_floor" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/volatile_market_ag_financial_stock_market_floor-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/volatile_market_ag_financial_stock_market_floor-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/volatile_market_ag_financial_stock_market_floor.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/a-volatile-market-discovering-your-risk-tolerance/" ">A Volatile Market: Discovering Your Risk Tolerance</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6862">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/the-best-of-riskemmgmtemlive-2015-video/" ">The Best of risk<em>mgmt</em>LIVE, 2015 (Video)</a></h4><p><p>&nbsp; Join Rich Hammar and Jerry Sparks for the best RML highlights of 2015. In this video Rich and Jerry talk about a variety of topics including sexual misconduct, same-sex marriage, church embezzlement and even the planet—or, rather, dwarf planet, [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6861">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/impact-of-federal-reserves-rate-increase/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_impact_of_fed_rate_hike-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="ag_financial_impact_of_fed_rate_hike" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_impact_of_fed_rate_hike-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_impact_of_fed_rate_hike-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ag_financial_impact_of_fed_rate_hike.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/impact-of-federal-reserves-rate-increase/" ">Impact of Federal Reserve’s Rate Increase</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6860">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/get-the-most-out-of-your-budget-in-2016/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/january-new-years-resolutions-ag-financial-blog-article-218x109.jpg" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="january-new-years-resolutions-ag-financial-blog-article" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/january-new-years-resolutions-ag-financial-blog-article-300x150.jpg 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/january-new-years-resolutions-ag-financial-blog-article-218x109.jpg 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/january-new-years-resolutions-ag-financial-blog-article.jpg 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/get-the-most-out-of-your-budget-in-2016/" ">Get The Most Out of Your Budget In 2016</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6858">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/christmas-clubs/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/christmas-club-token-218x109.jpg" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="christmas-club-token" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/christmas-club-token-300x150.jpg 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/christmas-club-token-218x109.jpg 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/christmas-club-token.jpg 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/christmas-clubs/" ">Christmas Clubs</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6857">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/recognizing-labor-across-the-world/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-labor-day-twitter-218x109.jpg" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="agfs-labor-day-twitter" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-labor-day-twitter-300x150.jpg 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-labor-day-twitter-768x384.jpg 768w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-labor-day-twitter-218x109.jpg 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-labor-day-twitter.jpg 950w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/recognizing-labor-across-the-world/" ">Recognizing Labor Across the World</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6856">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/congress-passes-bill-that-permanently-extends-qualified-charitable-distributions-qcds/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/qcd_rmd_ira_ag_financial-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="qcd_rmd_ira_ag_financial" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/qcd_rmd_ira_ag_financial-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/qcd_rmd_ira_ag_financial-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/qcd_rmd_ira_ag_financial.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/congress-passes-bill-that-permanently-extends-qualified-charitable-distributions-qcds/" ">Congress Passes Bill That Permanently Extends Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6855">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/happy-thanksgiving/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/thanksgiving_ag_financial-1-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="thanksgiving_ag_financial-1" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/happy-thanksgiving/" ">Happy Thanksgiving!</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6853">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/the-million-dollar-retirement-standard/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/how_much_money_do_you_need_to_retire_ag_financial-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="how_much_money_do_you_need_to_retire_ag_financial" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/how_much_money_do_you_need_to_retire_ag_financial-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/how_much_money_do_you_need_to_retire_ag_financial-768x384.png 768w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/how_much_money_do_you_need_to_retire_ag_financial-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/how_much_money_do_you_need_to_retire_ag_financial.png 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/the-million-dollar-retirement-standard/" ">The “Million Dollar” Retirement Standard</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6852">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/year-end-tax-checklist/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/year-end-tax-checklist-218x109.gif" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="year-end-tax-checklist" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/year-end-tax-checklist/" ">Year-End Tax Checklist</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6851">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/tips-for-safe-holiday-dinners-video/" ">Tips for Safe Holiday Dinners (Video)</a></h4><p><p>Andy Whaley asks Jerry Sparks, President of Insurance at AG Financial Solutions, how churches can have safe holiday dinners. Jerry&#8217;s advice ranges from facilities to food and is full of detail and easy-to-follow instructions that can help your church have [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6850">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/where-did-the-name-black-friday-come-from/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/black-friday-218x109.gif" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="black-friday" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/black-friday-300x150.gif 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/black-friday-768x384.gif 768w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/black-friday-218x109.gif 218w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/where-did-the-name-black-friday-come-from/" ">Where Did the Name &#8220;Black Friday&#8221; Come From?</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6849">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/3-church-loan-mistakes-to-avoid/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/3-mistakes-church-loans-ag-financial-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="3-mistakes-church-loans-ag-financial" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/3-mistakes-church-loans-ag-financial-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/3-mistakes-church-loans-ag-financial-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/3-mistakes-church-loans-ag-financial.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/3-church-loan-mistakes-to-avoid/" ">3 Church Loan Mistakes to Avoid</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6847">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/online-access-convenient-secure-simple/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/online_access_screen_landscape-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="online_access_screen_landscape" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/online_access_screen_landscape-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/online_access_screen_landscape-768x384.png 768w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/online_access_screen_landscape-1024x512.png 1024w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/online_access_screen_landscape-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/online_access_screen_landscape.png 1084w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/online-access-convenient-secure-simple/" ">Online Access: Convenient, Secure, Simple</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6846">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/spooky-spending/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-halloween-spending-218x109.jpg" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="agfs-halloween-spending" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-halloween-spending-300x150.jpg 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-halloween-spending-768x384.jpg 768w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-halloween-spending-1024x512.jpg 1024w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-halloween-spending-218x109.jpg 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/agfs-halloween-spending.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/spooky-spending/" ">Spooky Spending</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6845">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/keep-your-church-out-of-the-headlines/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/riskmgmtlive_church_out_of_headlines-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="riskmgmtlive_church_out_of_headlines" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/riskmgmtlive_church_out_of_headlines-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/riskmgmtlive_church_out_of_headlines-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/riskmgmtlive_church_out_of_headlines.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/keep-your-church-out-of-the-headlines/" ">Keep Your Church Out of the Headlines</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6844">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/5-tips-for-a-safe-fall-harvest-party/" ">5 Tips for a Safe Fall Harvest Party (Video)</a></h4><p><p>This time of year Fall parties at churches are in full swing, and where two or more gather, there’s a potential for risk.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6843">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/teaching-your-kids-about-money-part-2/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/teaching_kids_about_money_blog_image-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="teaching_kids_about_money_blog_image" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/teaching_kids_about_money_blog_image-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/teaching_kids_about_money_blog_image-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/teaching_kids_about_money_blog_image.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/teaching-your-kids-about-money-part-2/" ">Teaching Your Kids About Money (Part II)</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6842">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/teaching-your-kids-about-money-part-1/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/kids-money-marshmallow-218x109.jpg" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="kids-money-marshmallow" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/kids-money-marshmallow-300x150.jpg 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/kids-money-marshmallow-218x109.jpg 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/kids-money-marshmallow.jpg 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/teaching-your-kids-about-money-part-1/" ">Teaching Your Kids About Money (Part I)</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6841">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/hold-the-phone-protect-yourself-from-telephone-fraud/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/phone_fraud-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="phone_fraud" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/phone_fraud-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/phone_fraud-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/phone_fraud.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/hold-the-phone-protect-yourself-from-telephone-fraud/" ">Hold the Phone: Protect Yourself Financially From Telephone Fraud</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6840">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/make-getting-a-church-loan-easier-with-these-3-steps/" ">3 Steps That Make Getting a Church Loan Easier</a></h4><p><p>Taking out a loan is one of the most important financial decisions you will make for your ministry. From organizing your finances to finding the right lender, it can be a lengthy process. And while it’s impossible to remove all [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6839">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/how-to-get-a-great-life-insurance-rate/" ">Get a Great Life Insurance Rate</a></h4><p><p>For life insurance, whether you get a great rate or a cost-prohibitive one depends almost entirely on medical underwriting, which considers many health risk factors. You can increase your likelihood of getting the coverage you need at a low price [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6836">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107022planned-giving-101-charitable-gift-annuities/" ">Planned Giving 101: Charitable Gift Annuities</a></h4><p><p>Meet Jim*. Several years ago, he invested money for himself and his wife, Bonnie, in a bank CD, but Bonnie passed away before it matured. Jim and Bonnie had always been active church members. Bonnie served for years as a [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6835">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/live-qa-with-richard-hammar-jerry-sparks-at-gc15/" ">Live Q&#038;A with Richard Hammar &#038; Jerry Sparks at GC15</a></h4><p><p>General Council 2015 was held last week in Orlando, Florida. Sponsored by AG Financial, thousands of AG members went to the conference to hear special guest speakers, participate in the Fine Arts competitions, attend business sessions, and visit more than [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6834">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/grace-matthews-sharing-hope/" ">Grace Matthews: Sharing Hope</a></h4><p><p>From her soft-spoken demeanor, 84-year-old Grace Matthews offers no sign of the adventurous life she has lived. In fact, she’s quite content to enjoy the quiet rhythms of daily life in her retirement community in Florida. But the way she [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6832">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55197boost-your-electronic-giving-part-3/" ">Boost Your Electronic Giving (Part 3)</a></h4><p><p>We’re wrapping up this three part series on boosting your electronic giving. Here are the final four ideas. We’d love to hear ideas you may have and we would love to visit more with you about ways to partner together [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6830">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55196boost-your-electronic-giving-part-2/" ">Boost Your Electronic Giving (Part 2)</a></h4><p><p>We’ve been discussing how churches and organizations can implement and improve their electronic giving strategy. Here are 3 more suggestions for you to consider:&nbsp; Teach On It</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6829">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55195boost-your-electronic-giving-part-1/" ">Boost Your Electronic Giving (Part 1)</a></h4><p><p>AG Financial Stewardship Consulting helps ministries bridge the gap to their vision by creating a movement of generosity within your organization. Part of this process involves making sure that it is simple for people to financially partner with you. Electronic [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6828">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55040the-most-overlooked-aspect-of-giving/" ">The Most Overlooked Aspect of Giving</a></h4><p><p>As church leaders, we often focus on an impassioned plea for giving. But are we forgetting half the equation? It’s the easiest thing to do, but so often we overlook the simplest words of gratitude.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6827">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid70874church-buildings-loans-and-the-power-of-planning/" ">Church Buildings, Loans, and the Power of Planning</a></h4><p><p>Finances are tight these days, even in growing churches. However, in the words of pioneer missionary Hudson Taylor, “God’s work, done in God’s way, will never lack God’s supplies.” So when the time comes to build a new facility to [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6826">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid877997-steps-towards-a-successful-church-construction-project/" ">7 Steps Toward a Successful Church Construction Project</a></h4><p><p>“Where should I begin?”&nbsp;Regardless of the scope of your project, it can be difficult to know how to start. We work with hundreds of churches each year on everything from minor improvement projects to major purchase and construction projects. In [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6825">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid88890does-your-church-building-need-more-space-do-this-not-that/" ">Does Your Church Building Need More Space? Do THIS, not THAT!</a></h4><p><p>I like the simplicity of the popular nutrition book series Eat This, Not That by David Zinczenko and Matt Goulding. Rather than presenting a one-size-fits-all solution, it educates readers about healthier alternatives to common food choices. My goal in this [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6824">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid101803keep-your-church-building-project-on-time-on-track-and-on-budget/" ">Keep Your Church Building Project on Time, On Track, and On Budget</a></h4><p><p>As one who often travels by air, I’ve learned to accept the frustration of delays and be thankful someone is addressing critical issues before the plane takes off. The same is true with church building projects.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6823">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid98595church-fraud-what-every-pastor-should-know/" ">Church Fraud: What Every Pastor Should Know</a></h4><p><p>Fraud can occur at any organization, but churches are extremely susceptible due to their trusting nature. Church leaders are responsible to God and to their congregation to safeguard the ministry&#8217;s assets. To do so, there are a few things every [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6822">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid102029exclusive-video-insights-on-church-financing-from-leading-ag-pastors/" ">Exclusive Video Insights on Church Financing from Leading AG Pastors</a></h4><p><p>Choco. Ketterling. Koch.&nbsp;Quinn.&nbsp;Drost. Canales. Crosby. Wachs. What do these eight leading Assemblies of God pastors have in common? A&nbsp;firm belief that the right financing partner makes all the difference.&nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6821">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103467how-electronic-giving-can-help-boost-church-generosity/" ">How Electronic Giving Can Help Boost Church Generosity</a></h4><p><p>As online banking grows ever more common, implementing an electronic giving system for your church can help increase generosity by making it easy for people to give.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6818">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/5-church-budget-practices-that-support-growth/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/growth-blog-image-twitter-218x109.png" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="growth-blog-image-twitter" srcset="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/growth-blog-image-twitter-300x150.png 300w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/growth-blog-image-twitter-218x109.png 218w, http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/growth-blog-image-twitter.png 720w" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/5-church-budget-practices-that-support-growth/" ">5 Church Budget Practices that Support Growth</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6817">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/do-your-church-facilities-fit-your-dna/" ">Do Your Church Facilities Fit Your DNA?</a></h4><p><p>In his recent article, Let Form Follow Faith, Gary Nicholson of Visioneering Studios&nbsp;addresses the tendency of churches to imitate the facility designs of others, a tendency we’ve also observed. However, just because something works great for one ministry doesn’t necessarily [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6815">
				<a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/7-deadly-retirement-planning-sins/" "><img width="218" height="109" src="http://www.agfinancial.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Pig-Animation-760x380-1-218x109.gif" class="attachment-blogthumb size-blogthumb wp-post-image" alt="Pig-Animation-760x380-1" /></a><h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/7-deadly-retirement-planning-sins/" ">7 Deadly Retirement Planning Sins</a></h4>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6814">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/come-see-us-at-general-council/" ">Come See Us at General Council</a></h4><p><p>If you’ll be attending General Council in Orlando, Florida, we invite you to swing by our booth. Enjoy lighthearted fun, check on your accounts, or simply drop by to say hi—we&#8217;d love to see you!</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6813">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/child-protection-and-church-risk/" ">Child Protection and Church Risk</a></h4><p><p>You want your children to be safe. As a church leader, you have the added responsibility of making your ministry a safe place for everyone’s children. A recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling changed who is considered legally responsible for the [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6812">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/richard-hammar-discusses-same-sex-marriage-ruling/" ">Richard Hammar Discusses Same-Sex Marriage Ruling</a></h4><p><p>On June 26 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right, effectively negating state bans against it. The ruling has sparked a flood of speculation as to its effect upon churches and ministries going forward.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6811">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/what-can-i-do-to-qualify-for-the-best-church-loan/" ">What Can I Do to Qualify for the Best Church Loan?</a></h4><p><p>Prior to starting the loan application process, it is important for pastors and church boards to understand the factors considered by lenders when evaluating you for a church loan. Although specific underwriting criteria vary, most lenders evaluate church borrowers in [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6810">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/summers-here-time-to-update-your-beneficiaries/" ">Summer&#8217;s Here: Time to Update Your Beneficiaries</a></h4><p><p>Planning a summer getaway? Before you go, make sure your beneficiaries are up to date. Documents to update may include your will or trust, life insurance, pension, IRA, 403(b), and bank accounts.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6809">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/summer-camp-maximize-child-safety-minimize-church-risk/" ">Summer Camp: Maximize Child Safety, Minimize Church Risk</a></h4><p><p>For kids, summer camp means swimming, bunk beds, games, and friendship. For churches and districts however, it means a higher level of risk. The two most common risks associated with camps are personal injuries and sexual abuse. Fortunately, there are [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6808">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/preparing-for-church-expansion-at-every-growth-stage/" ">Preparing for Church Expansion at Every Growth Stage</a></h4><p><p>A church with an attendance of 100 has different needs than a church of 1,000. As you move through different growth stages, make sure you are aware of and plan for the following:</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6807">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/how-to-spring-clean-your-finances/" ">How to Spring Clean Your Finances</a></h4><p><p>Spring cleaning offers an opportunity to address parts of your house, like the garage or basement, that may get neglected during the rest of the year. Your finances can use an occasional deep cleaning too. Use the following tips to [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6806">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid89771personal-budget-planning-in-5-simple-steps/" ">Personal Budget Planning in 5 Simple Steps</a></h4><p><p>For many, financial strategies are a mystical or magical potion better left to those with acronyms behind their name. Although seeking the advice of a licensed financial professional may be a wise decision, and necessary depending upon the complexity of [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6805">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/finance-101-with-keaton/" ">Finance 101 with Keaton [Video]</a></h4><p><p>Are you more financially savvy than a six-year-old? Watch as Keaton the Finance Kid gives you budget tips and more.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6804">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/funding-college-parents-fail-to-make-grade/" ">Funding College: New Study Finds Parents Fail to Make the Grade</a></h4><p><p>How America Saves for College 2015” report, nearly nine out of 10 parents plan for their child to attend college, yet less than half are actually saving for it.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6803">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/global-equity-income-fund-wins-2015-thomas-reuters-lipper-award/" ">Capstone Wins 2015 Thomson Reuters Lipper Fund Award</a></h4><p><p>AG Financial congratulates our wealth management subsidiary, Capstone Asset Management Company, recipient of a 2015 Thomson Reuters Lipper Fund Award for Best Global Equity Income Fund.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6802">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/church-finance-spring-cleaning-in-5-steps/" ">Church Finance Spring Cleaning in 5 Steps</a></h4><p><p>Now that we are several months into 2015, it’s a good time to take a fresh look at your church&#8217;s finances. Give your ministry a financial spring cleaning with the following steps:</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6801">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/planning-church-expansion-ask-6-questions-first/" ">Planning a Church Expansion? Ask These 6 Questions First</a></h4><p><p>One of the most common questions we receive from churches beginning a construction project has to do with the best way to start. Since every church is unique, taking time to prayerfully answer the following six questions before</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6799">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/financial-literacy-month-4-numbers-you-need-to-know/" ">Financial Literacy Month: 4 Numbers You Need to Know</a></h4><p><p>Financial Literacy Month—the perfect time to focus on better managing your personal finances for the good of your family’s future. You don’t need a degree in finance to manage money well, but you do need to master some basics. The [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6798">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/planning-a-church-building-project-what-to-request-from-the-pros/" ">Planning a Church Building Project: What to Request from the Pros</a></h4><p><p>Good planning for a church building project starts with defining your needs and goals and results in a clearly defined project scope within an affordable budget. To achieve this, most churches need to bring in the professionals sooner rather than [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6797">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106871losing-a-leader-how-key-man-insurance-can-help-your-church-recover/" ">Losing a Leader: How Key Man Insurance Can Help Your Church Recover</a></h4><p><p>What would happen to your church if the pastor unexpectedly died tomorrow? Would people leave? Would giving decline? Would the church still be able to pay bills? How might ministry be affected? Unfortunately, most churches do not fully consider these [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6795">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/last-minute-tips-for-a-smoother-tax-season/" ">Last-Minute Tips for a Smoother Tax Season</a></h4><p><p>If you&#8217;ve already submitted your 2014 tax return, good for you! If not, don&#8217;t fret. The following tips will help you maximize your benefits by the April 15 deadline.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6794">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/18-tips-to-prevent-church-fraud/" ">18 Tips to Prevent Church Fraud</a></h4><p><p>By implementing recommended internal controls and cash management procedures, you can greatly reduce your church&#8217;s risk of fraud. Check your current procedures against the following guidelines to see what you&#8217;re already doing right and how you may improve:&nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6793">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/attention-churches-update-on-employer-paid-health-insurance/" ">IRS Penalty Update: Church Health Care Arrangements and ObamaCare</a></h4><p><p>A notice issued by the IRS this month provides much-needed &#8220;transitional relief&#8221; from the $100 per day, per employee, penalty mandated by the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare) for employer healthcare arrangements.&nbsp;Watch as church law and tax expert Richard Hammar explains [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6792">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/america-saves-week-what-are-you-saving-for/" ">America Saves Week: What Are You Saving For?</a></h4><p><p>America Saves Week—the perfect time to set your savings goals and establish a plan for reaching them. We can help you accomplish that.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6791">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/church-risk-management-your-winter-checklist/" ">Church Risk Management: Your Winter Checklist</a></h4><p><p>In response to a viewer request received after the Risk Mgmt LIVE discussion of winter hazards, we have compiled the following recommendations. Although some apply only in northern climates, others are universal. Use this as a guide to ensure you’re [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6790">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/church-loans-are-you-a-good-borrowing-candidate/" ">Church Loans: Are You a Good Borrowing Candidate?</a></h4><p><p>A church loan is a tool that, when used wisely and effectively, can help your ministry as it continues to grow. However, before considering ministry financing for any reason, make sure your church is in a good position to borrow.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6789">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/cash-reserves-how-much-does-your-ministry-need/" ">Cash Reserves: How Much Does Your Ministry Need?</a></h4><p><p>Most church leaders are all too familiar with the fact that giving can fluctuate dramatically month to month. Because of this fluctuation, it’s important to maintain a certain level of liquidity, which is different for every church based on their [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6788">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103038build-your-lending-vocabulary/" ">Build Your Lending Vocabulary</a></h4><p><p>While interest rates have slightly risen in the last few months, they&#8217;re still very low compared to previous years. As a result, many are looking to take advantage of refinancing their residential and commercial loans.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6787">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid91408church-risk-management-how-to-weather-a-hurricane/" ">Church Risk Management: How to Weather a Hurricane</a></h4><p><p>By following some risk management guidelines, you can help minimize both the loss of physical property and human life when a hurricane hits. If you are not prepared, your church facility and the safety of your congregation could be at [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6786">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108132celebrating-2-years-of-risk-management-live/" ">Celebrating 2 Years of Risk Management LIVE</a></h4><p><p>Happy two-year anniversary, RiskMgmtLIVE. On August 28, 2012, the first Risk Mgmt LIVE espisode aired, discussing the Penn State sexual misconduct case in light of how it might affect churches and ministries. It started as a simple video series and [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6785">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107735managing-church-risk-a-view-from-the-trenches/" ">Managing Church Risk: A View from the Trenches</a></h4><p><p>What do a Baptist, a non-denominational, and an AG pastor have in common? When these three are joined by a lawyer and a certified church risk manager, the answer is a passion for educating fellow ministers and churches about church [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6784">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107315risk-management-tips-and-tools-for-a-safe-summer/" ">Risk Management Tips and Tools for a Safe Summer</a></h4><p><p>Summer fun can quickly turn tragic without proper planning. Here&#8217;s how to keep two favorites—camping and swimming—safe for kids and your church, plus a video discussion and helpful links.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6783">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1076816-reasons-to-rethink-your-life-insurance/" ">6 Reasons to Rethink Your Life Insurance</a></h4><p><p>Although it is a crucial protection for families, especially those with young children, life insurance doesn&#8217;t get the attention it deserves.&nbsp;Just as you occasionally evaluate your car or homeowner’s insurance, it’s worth taking time to also look at your life [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6782">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/retirement-10-easy-tips-to-save-more/" ">Retirement: 10 Easy Tips to Save More</a></h4><p><p>October 19-25 is National Save for Retirement Week. Consider this your official reminder to make retirement saving a priority starting this week. To help you do that, here are 10 simple ideas.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6781">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1085907-buckets-to-simplify-your-personal-budget/" ">7 Buckets to Simplify Your Personal Budgetv</a></h4><p><p>&#8220;Earn all you can, save all you can, give all you can.&#8221; &#8211; John Wesley, Methodist theologian (1703-1791) The purpose of a budget is simple: to help you save money for future goals by limiting and tracking what you spend.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6780">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid87590understanding-church-insurance-liability-coverage/" ">Understanding Church Insurance: Liability Coverage</a></h4><p><p>While property insurance covers the things you own, liability insurance covers the actions that could leave your church liable for damage to others (injuries, property, or reputation). &nbsp;Many ministries wonder what type of liability insurance they need for their organization.&nbsp; [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6779">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/7-common-money-mistakes/" ">7 Common Money Mistakes</a></h4><p><p>When it comes to personal financial planning, you can make mistakes without even realizing it. Let’s take a look at seven of the most common ones and how you can avoid them for a better financial future.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6777">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1073279-church-building-project-hurdles/" ">9 Church Building Project Hurdles</a></h4><p><p>As you undertake a church facility expansion, be prepared for these 9 challenges.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6776">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106801how-much-can-we-afford-to-borrow-church-loan-experts-answer/" ">How Much Can We Afford to Borrow? Church Loan Experts Answer</a></h4><p><p>You&#8217;ve got vision. Now you need funding. The question is, how much can you afford to borrow?&nbsp;Two AG Financial church loan experts, Bruce Gibbons and Randy Smith, share some insight into this important question.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6775">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106238church-finance-101-how-to-set-your-ministry-up-for-success/" ">Church Finance 101: How to Set Your Ministry Up for Success</a></h4><p><p>What contributes to ministry success? Evangelism, discipleship, preaching, and prayer always make the list. Church finance, on the other hand, may fall to the bottom or be left off entirely. Yet it plays a critical role. When you set your [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6774">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106154short-on-space-how-to-maximize-your-church-facilities/" ">Short on Space? How to Maximize Your Church Facilities</a></h4><p><p>A space shortage can be exciting because it’s often an indicator of growth. However, if not handled proactively, lack of space can inhibit further growth. Whether you’re short on worship or ministry space, these practical solutions will help you maximize [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6773">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid104947not-your-parents-church-building-new-ways-churches-are-expanding/" ">Not Your Parents&#8217; Church Building: New Ways Churches Are Expanding</a></h4><p><p>Building from the ground up isn&#8217;t your only option for church expansion.&nbsp;From car dealerships and movie theaters to grocery stores and fitness centers — buildings of all shapes and sizes are being repurposed as church facilities. As you determine the [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6772">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid104762managing-a-church-building-project-a-pastor-s-perspective/" ">Managing a Church Building Project: A Pastor&#8217;s Perspective</a></h4><p><p>Michael Williams, executive pastor of The House Modesto (formerly known as Calvary Temple Worship Center) in Modesto, California, knows what it takes for vision to become reality. In 2010, under the leadership of senior pastor Glen Berteau, The House initiated [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6771">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid104464church-financial-planning-4-must-dos-for-a-healthier-2014/" ">Church Financial Planning: 4 Must-Dos for a Healthier 2014</a></h4><p><p>From church expansion to risk management planning, these four tips from financial and ministry experts will guide you toward a successful new year.&nbsp;</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6770">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103706church-finances-part-ii-the-importance-of-financial-statements/" ">Church Finances Part II: The Importance of Financial Statements</a></h4><p><p>Obtaining properly prepared financial statements is an accounting best practice for all businesses, including churches and other non-profits. Unfortunately, many churches do not realize their significance.</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6769">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103705church-finances-part-i-budgeting-tips/" ">Church Finances Part I: Budgeting Tips</a></h4><p><p>Prudently planning your ministry finances plays a significant role in meeting your ministry goals. As your church plans its 2014 goals and budget projections, it’s important to ask the right questions.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6768">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/5-reasons-your-church-needs-a-cpa/" ">5 Reasons Your Church Needs a CPA</a></h4><p><p>Using a certified public accountant (CPA) for your church finances can benefit your ministry in several ways. Depending on your needs, CPAs can be hired by the church as in-house staff, or services can be provided by a CPA firm. [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6767">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid94784navigating-the-church-budget/" ">Navigating the Church Budget</a></h4><p><p>Just as a pilot needs a flight plan to estimate departure, arrival, and time to complete the flight, churches need a budget to efficiently achieve its mission while demonstrating good stewardship of their funds. A realistic plan combines the goals [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6766">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid91200church-risk-management-in-5-simple-steps/" ">Church Risk Management in 5 Simple Steps</a></h4><p><p>Risk management is the process of protecting the tangible and intangible assets of your church or ministry. Tangible assets are physical properties, such as cash, buildings, furnishings, sound systems, computer equipment, etc. Intangible assets are the reputation, public image or [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6764">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid92798crib-safety-deadline-for-child-care-facilities/" ">Crib Safety Deadline for Child Care Facilities</a></h4><p><p>The new crib laws for daycare centers and churches take effect on December 28, 2012. As of that date, it is mandatory that all child care facilities must comply with the revised safety standards. Regarding the entities required to comply [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6763">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid93091church-construction-101-getting-started/" ">Church Construction 101: Getting Started</a></h4><p><p>“Who do you call first? The lender, architect, or builder?” This is the most common question we hear as we work with churches across the country. It can be difficult to know where to start.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6762">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid97988creating-a-social-media-policy-for-your-church/" ">Creating a Social Media Policy for Your Church</a></h4><p><p>Currently Facebook has over one billion active users.[1] Twitter has 500 million active users, and YouTube has a billion users.[2][3] Social media is here to stay. Churches regularly communicate with their congregations and promote events through social media.</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6761">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid98062what-is-your-church-loan-really-costing-you/" ">What is Your Church Loan Really Costing You?</a></h4><p><p>When shopping for a church loan, it’s tempting to choose a lender based solely on the interest rate they can offer. However, the loan with the best rate may not always prove to be the best choice for a church’s [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6760">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid96843how-to-shop-for-a-church-loan/" ">How to Shop for a Church Loan</a></h4><p><p>Due to both low construction costs and low interest rates, a lot of growing churches are in the market for a loan.&nbsp;Most people are familiar with residential mortgages, but a church is considered a commercial enterprise, requiring a commercial mortgage.&nbsp;</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6759">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108501for-tax-purposes-a-charitable-giving-checklist/" ">For Tax Purposes: A Charitable Giving Checklist</a></h4><p><p>Although tax laws change, one thing stays the same: It is more blessed to give than to receive. With giving comes the added blessing of being able to claim donations on your tax return—a smart financial move for your family. [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6758">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1080158-affordable-ways-to-improve-your-church-facilities/" ">8 Affordable Ways to Improve Your Church Facilities</a></h4><p><p>Have a big vision but a small budget? You&#8217;re not alone. If a large-scale project is out of the question right now, you can still dramatically improve the ministry function of your facilities through modest upgrades, such as these:</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6757">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1089453-myths-about-the-minister-s-housing-allowance/" ">3 Myths about the Minister&#8217;s Housing Allowance</a></h4><p><p>In light of the recent reversal of the minister’s housing allowance court ruling, it’s a good time to address several common misunderstandings about how this tax benefit works.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6756">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid109122church-growth-strategies-rob-ketterling-shares-his-insights/" ">Church Growth Strategies: Rob Ketterling Shares His Insights</a></h4><p><p>Rob Ketterling led River Valley Church in Apple Valley, Minnesota, as they expanded to eight campuses in the U.S. and overseas and are now reaching over 6,500 people. We recently sat down with him to get his perspective on healthy [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6755">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108689how-to-utilize-volunteers-without-raising-church-risk/" ">How to Utilize Volunteers without Raising Church Risk</a></h4><p></p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6754">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108239prepared-for-the-unexpected-4-ways-to-manage-church-risk/" ">Prepared for the Unexpected: 4 Ways to Manage Church Risk</a></h4><p><p>&#8220;It&#8217;s easier to prepare and prevent, than to repair and repent.&#8221; &#8211; Author unknown When the unexpected happens, will your church be ready? Most church insurance claims and lawsuits can be prevented with a little planning and preparation. That’s why [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6753">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108051safety-checklist-for-your-church-nursery/" ">Safety Checklist for Your Church Nursery</a></h4><p><p>The following is a best-practice checklist to help you maintain a safe, secure environment for babies and toddlers in your church. &nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6752">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1086915-ways-to-end-the-year-well/" ">5 Ways to End the Year Well</a></h4><p><p>2014 is almost over. Will your church be ready for 2015?&nbsp;Time may be running out, but there is still much you can do to end this year on a high note. For the health of your ministry, consider these five [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6751">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108832church-construction-5-ways-to-reduce-red-tape/" ">Church Construction: 5 Ways to Reduce Red Tape</a></h4><p><p>Unfortunately, too many churches fully design a building only to realize later that it cannot be built due to outside requirements and regulations imposed on them.</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6750">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108404prepared-for-church-budgeting-7-blunders-to-avoid/" ">Prepared for Church Budgeting: 7 Blunders to Avoid</a></h4><p><p>Welcome to the third and final part in our church preparedness series. In the first two posts, we discussed how to build church emergency savings and risk management steps every church should be taking.</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6749">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108176prepared-for-rainy-days-how-to-build-a-church-emergency-fund/" ">Prepared for Rainy Days: How to Build a Church Emergency Fund</a></h4><p><p>&#8220;In all matters we should hope and pray for the best; nevertheless, we should be prepared for the worst.&#8221; &#8211; Martin Luther In honor of National Preparedness Month, we are kicking off a three-part series to help churches and ministries [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6748">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107731compound-interest-put-your-money-to-work/" ">Compound Interest: Put Your Money to Work</a></h4><p><p>Most consumers deposit their cash into a checking and/or savings account, where the money earns very little, if any, return. But you don&#8217;t have to settle for average.&nbsp;You can learn how to invest well and wisely, putting your money to [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6747">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107501how-and-when-to-update-your-beneficiaries/" ">How and When to Update Your Beneficiaries</a></h4><p><p>Marriage. Birth. Death. Retirement.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6746">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107540interest-rate-swaps-refinancing-and-good-business/" ">Interest Rate Swaps, Refinancing, and Good Business</a></h4><p><p>Special thanks to Judith Fellheimer, of Fellheimer and Eichen LLP for providing the article below. We feel this information is timely and relevant for churches whose lenders may have suggested an Interest Rate Swap, as such contracts pose a risk [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6745">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107732leave-a-legacy-bless-your-family/" ">Leave a Legacy, Bless Your Family</a></h4><p><p>Estate planning goals are multifaceted, but a common challenge is how to leave a generous inheritance to your family while continuing to provide for the ministries you supported during your lifetime. Is there a way to accomplish both?&nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6744">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107913planned-giving-101-donor-advised-funds/" ">Planned Giving 101: Donor Advised Funds</a></h4><p><p>Giving directed by you.&nbsp; You&#8217;ve managed your money and your giving all your life. A Donor Advised Fund allows you to direct both the amount and timing of your gifts to ministry—while realizing tax benefits now.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6743">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108815update-minister-s-housing-allowance-ruling-reversed/" ">Update: Minister&#8217;s Housing Allowance Ruling Reversed</a></h4><p><p>Watch Dr. Richard Hammar&#8217;s response to yesterday&#8217;s reversal of the minister&#8217;s housing allowance ruling.&nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6742">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid109023ira-charitable-rollover-deadline-extended/" ">IRA Charitable Rollover Deadline Extended</a></h4><p><p>On December 16, Congress passed a bill extending a number of tax provisions to December 31, 2014, allowing these items to benefit you on your 2014 tax return.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6741">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108969steward-mutual-funds-an-investment-option-for-403-b-participants/" ">Steward Mutual Funds: An Investment Option for 403(b) Participants</a></h4><p><p>The Steward Family of Mutual Funds offered by AG Financial Solutions are faith-based, screened funds based on biblical principles and consistent with a Christian lifestyle.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6740">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1090625-key-financial-resolutions-for-better-money-management-in-2015/" ">5 Key Financial Resolutions for Better Money Management in 2015</a></h4><p><p>Where would you like to be financially by this time next year? One of the biggest obstacles to financial freedom is a simple lack of planning. Perhaps even more important than determining where you’d like to be is determining how [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6739">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid108916ag-foundation-donors-provide-generous-missions-gift/" ">AG Foundation Donors Provide Generous Missions Gift</a></h4><p><p>Assemblies of God Foundation donors are known for their generosity and passion for spreading the gospel message around the world. This passion was revealed most recently when Don Headlee (shown left), executive vice president of AG Financial Solutions, met with [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6738">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/ag-foundation-giving-simplified/" ">AG Foundation: Giving Simplified</a></h4><p><p>p>AG Foundation was created to help you find new ways to use what God has given you—often with assets you may not have thought were available for giving—to fuel greater financial security that frees you to support the things God [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6737">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid105665new-critical-church-tax-changes-explained-by-dr-richard-hammar/" ">New Critical Church Tax Changes Explained by Dr. Richard Hammar</a></h4><p><p>Churches need to be aware of two critical new tax developments to remain compliant with the IRS. In the brief videos below, Dr. Richard Hammar, legal counsel for the Assemblies of God, explains each development and outlines next steps.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6736">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid105683the-number-one-reason-churches-end-up-in-court/" ">The Number One Reason Churches End Up in Court</a></h4><p><p>Sexual misconduct with minors is the primary reason churches end up in court. Although it is grievous to church leaders to receive allegations of such behavior within their church, the manner in which they respond can determine whether or not [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6735">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid105800churches-and-sexual-misconduct-how-to-deal-with-the-media/" ">Churches and Sexual Misconduct: How to Deal with the Media</a></h4><p><p>Consider this scenario: One day you receive a phone call from your local news outlet that goes something like this, &#8220;Hi, this is Channel 7 News. We understand a member of your staff has been arrested. We have a few [&hellip;]</p>
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                <li class="post" id="post-6733">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106242risk-management-resource-facilities-use-agreement/" ">Risk Management Resource: Facilities Use Agreement</a></h4><p><p>Take this important step before you share your church facilities with an outside group. One thing many churches don’t think about is their potential liability when they allow outside groups or other churches to use their facilities. Some churches may [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6732">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106250why-should-parents-and-grandparents-consider-a-coverdell-5-reasons/" ">5 Reasons Parents and Grandparents Consider a Coverdell</a></h4><p><p>Eighteen years from now, it’s estimated that the average cost for a four-year college education at a public institution will have increased from approximately $37,000 to $108,000. This price is for tuition and fees alone, and does not include additional [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6731">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1062536-smart-ways-to-use-your-tax-refund/" ">6 Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund</a></h4><p><p>According to the IRS, the average tax refund for Americans in 2012 was $2,803. Although it feels like a nice bonus, getting a refund simply means you overpaid in taxes. It is money that could have reduced debt or earned [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6730">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106383dr-richard-hammar-zones-in-on-multi-site-church-expansion/" ">Dr. Richard Hammar Zones in on Multi-Site Church Expansion</a></h4><p><p>Local zoning laws could be a major factor in determining where you’re able to go if your church wants to add a campus at a separate location. As a result of discovering restrictions too late, some churches have found themselves [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6728">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid106654stealing-god-s-money-church-fraud-exposed/" ">Stealing God&#8217;s Money: Church Fraud Exposed</a></h4><p><p>Using church money for personal reasons is stealing. Intention, rationale, or even promises to return funds does not change this fact. While it&#8217;s easy to believe fraud could never happen in your church, the truth is that no church is [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6727">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1070475-ways-to-protect-church-board-members-from-liability/" ">5 Ways to Protect Church Board Members from Liability</a></h4><p><p>The decisions and operations of a church board may expose board members to personal liability and even lawsuit. Take these steps to help protect your board. &nbsp; 1. Understand your state&#8217;s charitable immunity laws. Some states provide charitable immunity for [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6726">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid107180preparing-for-retirement-a-checklist/" ">Preparing for Retirement: A Checklist</a></h4><p><p>Will you be ready to retire? This simple, 4-step checklist will help you plan for your best retirement. 1. Assess your current financial situation. Take inventory — what assets do you have, and what retirement benefits are you entitled to? [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6724">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1034222013-best-of-risk-mgmt-live/" ">2013 Best of risk<em>mgmt</em>LIVE</a></h4><p><p>As we wrap up 2013, we’d like to highlight some of our most popular Risk Mgmt LIVE topics. In the event you&#8217;re unfamiliar with this free resource, Risk Mgmt LIVE is a monthly video series in which respected attorney and [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6723">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103570five-things-to-know-about-the-minister-s-housing-allowance-ruling/" ">Five Things to Know About the Minister&#8217;s Housing Ruling</a></h4><p><p>&nbsp;UPDATE: &nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6722">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103825church-risk-do-your-policies-need-a-checkup/" ">Church Risk: Do Your Policies Need a Checkup?</a></h4><p><p>The beginning of each new year is a great time for churches to set goals for reducing and managing risk. A crucial step in the process involves taking time to review and assess all church policies to uncover areas of [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6721">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1038917-estate-planning-questions-everyone-should-ask/" ">7 Estate Planning Questions Everyone Should Ask</a></h4><p><p>Estate planning is an essential task but can feel overwhelming. Use this list of seven questions as a basic guide to help simplify the process. Although you can take some steps yourself, it is recommended that you seek the services [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6720">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid104359403-b-contribution-limits-for-2014/" ">403(b) Contribution Limits for 2014</a></h4><p><p>In October of 2013, the IRS released the new Retirement Plan Limitations for 2014 as follows:</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6719">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid104648church-shootings-who-s-liable/" ">Church Shootings: Who&#8217;s Liable</a></h4><p><p>With so much media attention focused on shootings in public places, you may be wondering whether your church could be found legally liable if a shooting takes place there. A recent Virginia State Supreme Court ruling on the Virginia Tech [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6718">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid104705conquer-your-tax-return-with-the-2014-ministers-tax-guide/" ">Conquer Your Tax Return with the 2014 Minister&#8217;s Tax Guide</a></h4><p><p>Sometimes ministers shy away from completing their own federal income tax return because the rules seem too complex. In reality, they are no more complex, only different. The 2014 Ministers Tax Guide, prepared by CPA and attorney Dr. Richard Hammer, [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6717">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid104737breaking-news-minister-s-housing-allowance-ruling-appealed/" ">Breaking News: Minister&#8217;s Housing Allowance Ruling Appealed</a></h4><p><p>In response to an appeal filed today to the recent federal court ruling that deemed the minister&#8217;s housing allowance unconstitutional, Dr. Richard Hammar, legal counsel for the General Council of the Assemblies of God, released the following comment:</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6716">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid105108church-board-alert-your-pastor-can-t-retire-unless-you-do-this/" ">Church Board Alert: Your Pastor Can&#8217;t Retire Unless You Do This</a></h4><p><p>Church boards have the privilege of supporting their pastors both in ministry and personally. One important aspect of that support involves a pastor’s plan for and transition into retirement. Whatever the retirement may look like, the church board is in [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6715">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid105451churches-6-steps-to-keep-your-kids-safe/" ">Churches: 6 Steps to Keep Your Kids Safe</a></h4><p><p>Providing a safe, loving environment where children can learn about Jesus is one of the highest callings and privileges of churches. The last thing we want is for a child and their family to be hurt. However, some churches may [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6714">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid101404how-to-make-a-bullet-proof-emergency-plan-that-reduces-church-risk/" ">How to Make a Bullet-Proof Emergency Plan that Reduces Church Risk</a></h4><p><p>In June of this year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released its latest recommendations to churches for developing high-quality emergency operations plans (EOPs). This free 38-page resource is available for download here.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6713">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-church-risk-and-child-abuse-reporting/" ">What You Need to Know About Church Risk and Child Abuse Reporting</a></h4><p><p>In 2012, there were 3.5 million reports of child abuse in the U.S. Collectively, the reports involved 6 million children. Although churches have a tremendous opportunity to protect and nurture innocent lives, many church leaders remain confused about their responsibility [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6711">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid102120borrowing-from-your-403-b-questions-to-ask-first/" ">Borrowing from Your 403(b): Questions to Ask First</a></h4><p><p>Borrowing from your retirement may cost you more than you bargained for — both now and in the future.&nbsp;It may be tempting to consider a loan from your 403(b) retirement account since you don’t have to go through a credit [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6710">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid102300throwback-thursday-this-day-in-history/" ">Throwback Thursday: This Day in History</a></h4><p><p>On Thursday, October 3, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt formed the Office of Economic Stabilization, designed to keep the country strong by controlling inflation during World War II.&nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6709">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1027327-steps-to-obtaining-life-insurance-for-your-family-s-protection/" ">7 Steps to Obtaining Life Insurance for Your Family&#8217;s Protection</a></h4><p><p>Life insurance is not for you—it&#8217;s for your family.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6708">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid102792year-end-tax-planning-tips/" ">Year-End Tax Planning Tips</a></h4><p><p>With holidays fast approaching, it’s time to consider year-end planning options. Just as an annual physical is important for monitoring your physical health, an annual financial assessment is an ideal way to monitor your financial health and provide the opportunity [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6707">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid102794how-to-know-when-to-refinance-your-church-loan/" ">How to Know When to Refinance Your Loan</a></h4><p><p>As churches work toward greater financial freedom, often the question will arise of whether to keep a mortgage as is or refinance the loan.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6706">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103066why-a-church-cell-phone-policy-is-critical/" ">Why a Church Cell Phone Policy is Critical</a></h4><p><p>Legal issues often follow close on the heels of technological advances. To keep up with ever-changing technology, state and federal laws continue to change. &nbsp; Overview of laws as of October 31, 2013:</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6705">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103391church-liability-clergy-privilege-confidentiality-and-reporting/" ">Church Liability: Clergy Privilege, Confidentially, and Reporting</a></h4><p><p>When any person enters that secret chamber, this statute closes the door upon him, and civil authority turns away its ear. The statement above is from a 1931 Minnesota Supreme Court ruling that provided justification for the clergy penitent privilege, [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6704">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid103396dr-richard-hammar-s-top-10-year-end-tax-planning-tips-for-churches/" ">Dr. Richard Hammar&#8217;s Top 10 Year-End Planning Tips for Churches</a></h4><p><p>With the holiday season upon us, it’s easy to become distracted from important year-end tax and administrative responsibilities. In the video below, Dr. Richard Hammar, attorney, CPA, and legal counsel for the Assemblies of God, presents ten critical tasks that [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6703">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid9896312-questions-to-ask-when-shopping-for-a-church-loan/" ">12 Questions to Ask When Shopping for a Church Loan</a></h4><p><p>It’s in the best interest of first-time borrowers and those who haven’t borrowed in a while to shop for a church loan with their eyes and ears wide open. One way to do that is to ask potential lenders as [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6702">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid99145appreciated-stocks-maximize-your-giving-impact/" ">Appreciated Stocks: Maximize Your Giving Impact</a></h4><p><p>Recent stock market growth has led to significant appreciation of stocks, creating a prime gifting opportunity. However, not all giving methods offer the same impact. You might consider simply selling your appreciated stocks and sending a cash gift to your [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6701">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid99218church-risk-management-and-sexual-orientation/" ">Church Risk Management and Sexual Orientation</a></h4><p><p>In the wake of new state laws and statutes allowing same-sex marriage, some pastors wonder if their refusal to perform same-sex marriage ceremonies puts them in a liable position. Add to that a refusal to hire employees based on sexual [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6700">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid99617how-long-are-you-prepared-to-live-four-retirement-challenges/" ">How Long Are You Prepared to Live? Four Retirement Challenges</a></h4><p><p>These days, a couple entering retirement at age 65 has a 50% likelihood of one spouse living to age 91 and a 25% likelihood of one spouse living to age 95.1&nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6699">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid100370church-liability-and-registered-sex-offenders/" ">Church Liability and Registered Sex Offenders</a></h4><p><p>One of the top questions asked about church liability has to do with dealing with known registered sex offenders who attend church. What steps should a church take to protect its members from potential harm and itself from a potential [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6698">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid100518the-supreme-court-s-same-sex-marriage-rulings-impact-on-churches/" ">The Supreme Court&#8217;s Same-Sex Marriage Rulings: Impact on Churches</a></h4><p><p>In light of the two recent Supreme Court rulings on same-sex marriage, questions have arisen as to the impact for churches and pastors. For instance, some are wondering if they will be exposed to liability for refusing to marry a [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6697">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1005196-common-church-loan-pitfalls/" ">6 Common Church Loan Pitfalls</a></h4><p><p>Whether you’re a first-time borrower or are already familiar with commercial lending, this list of pitfalls will help you spot potential dangers when looking for the right church loan. With an understanding of these risk areas, you will be better [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6696">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid100545getting-the-most-from-your-investments-a-laddering-strategy/" ">Getting the Most from Your Investments: A Laddering Strategy</a></h4><p><p>Many investors rely on a fixed income while juggling fluctuating interest rates. Due to the current low interest rate environment, this can prove to be quite challenging. An easy and effective investment approach, referred to as laddering, may lead to [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6695">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid1011655-questions-your-church-lender-may-ask/" ">5 Questions Your Church Lender May Ask</a></h4><p><p>When shopping for a church loan, understanding the kinds of questions you may be asked will better prepare you for the process.&nbsp;As a follow-up to our post 12 Questions to Ask When Shopping for a Church Loan, below is a [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6693">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid94253new-tax-laws-charitable-giving/" ">New Tax Laws and Charitable Giving</a></h4><p><p>With the new year comes new resolutions, new budgets and, at least for 2013, new tax laws. Some of the recent decisions made on Capitol Hill have positive financial implications for churches and ministries.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6692">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid94786church-risk-review-safe-and-smart-in-2013/" ">Church Risk Review: Safe and Smart in 2013</a></h4><p><p>Recent tragedies in the news have shaken us to our core. Shootings, abuse, and disasters have sent church leaders searching for more effective ways to protect and safeguard people and property. It can be an overwhelming task.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6691">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid94787last-minute-tax-savings-with-iras/" ">Last-Minute Tax Savings with IRAs</a></h4><p><p>IRAs not only help you save for retirement, they may provide a savings at tax time. Contributions to an individual retirement account, Traditional or Roth, are one of the easiest ways for a qualified individual to invest in a tax-favored [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6690">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid95389charitable-giving-and-iras-in-2013/" ">Charitable Giving and IRAs in 2013</a></h4><p><p>As we move through the first quarter of 2013, conversations about tax law changes and the “Fiscal Cliff” are fading. Instead, the focus has shifted towards 2012 tax returns and how to implement 2013 legislation changes. For the most part, [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6689">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid95837planning-funding-building-starting-a-church-building-project/" ">Planning, Funding and Building: Starting a Church Building Project</a></h4><p><p>For many churches, beginning a building project can be intimidating. How do you know if it’s time to expand your church facilities? Once you know the time is right, how do you go about obtaining the financing you need? And [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6688">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid96533risk-management-live-be-prepared-for-anything/" ">risk<em>mgmt</em>LIVE: Be Prepared for Anything</a></h4><p><p>When it comes to managing risk, knowledge is the best defense. Imagine this: your church is growing, thriving. Your staff is united in purpose and spirit. You’re confident you’re doing everything right, until WHAM! Out of the blue—an unfortunate incident [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6687">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid96610protecting-your-ministry-with-key-man-insurance/" ">Protecting Your Ministry with Key Man Insurance</a></h4><p><p>Key man insurance (also called key person insurance) can be very important to the life and longevity of your ministry. Simply described, key man insurance is a life insurance policy for one or more lead pastors, administrators, etc. A key [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6686">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid97451housing-allowance-what-every-retired-minister-should-know/" ">Housing Allowance: What Every Retired Ministry Should Know</a></h4><p><p>Upon retirement, the IRS allows credentialed ministers of all established church denominations to declare a housing allowance on distributions from their 403(b) retirement accounts. That means the portion of your distributions used for housing expenses does not have to be [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6685">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid98488throwback-thursday-are-you-taking-care-of-your-pastor-s-retirement/" ">Throwback Thursday: Are You Taking Care of Your Pastor&#8217;s Retirement?</a></h4><p><p>This Throwback Thursday is about helping your pastor save for retirement. It&#8217;s an important issue facing every church staff, board, and laity. However, many churches fail to realize how necessary—and easy—it is to help their pastor get ready for retirement. [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6684">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/a-portfolio-plus-six-reasons-to-consider-a-roth-ira/" ">A Portfolio Plus: Six Reasons to Consider a Roth IRA</a></h4><p><p>bid/98689/A-Portfolio-Plus-Six-Reasons-to-Consider-a-Roth-IRA In an effort to save on taxes during retirement, more people are choosing Roth IRAs for their unique tax benefits. Let&#8217;s look at six reasons you might consider adding a Roth IRA to your current portfolio.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6683">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid88612the-cost-and-consequences-of-sexual-misconduct-at-penn-state/" ">The Cost and Consequences of Sexual Misconduct at Penn State</a></h4><p><p>On November 4, 2011, the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania filed criminal charges against Jerry Sandusky that included multiple counts of child molestation. Several of the offenses occurred between 1998 and 2002, during which time Sandusky was the [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6682">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid89225the-3-best-and-worst-retirement-strategies/" ">The 3 Best &#8211; And Worst &#8211; Retirement Strategies</a></h4><p><p>“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it?” Luke 14:28 Have you put much thought into your retirement strategy? [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6681">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid89808risk-management-for-church-volunteers/" ">Risk Management for Church Volunteers</a></h4><p><p>Church leaders are faced with the grave responsibility of protecting the members of their congregation. While children are often the primary concern, it is also important to protect the volunteers that serve your ministry. &nbsp;</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6680">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid90365planned-giving-through-charitable-remainder-trusts/" ">Planned Giving Through Charitable Remainder Trusts</a></h4><p><p>Planned giving allows you to manage your wealth while blessing the ministries you feel called to serve. Through a unique marriage of stewardship and financial planning, it allows you to reach your goals for yourself, family, and ministry. There are [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6679">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid90510church-construction-building-your-building-team/" ">Church Construction: Building Your Building Team</a></h4><p><p>How do you assemble a building team? Your church is a unique blend of people with its own leadership culture and decision-making process. Some churches prefer the diversity of opinion that a committee offers, while others find it easier to [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6678">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid91055retirement-planning-how-to-rollover-your-retirement-accounts/" ">Retirement Planning: How to Rollover Your Retirement Accounts</a></h4><p><p>Many Americans end up with two or three retirement accounts due to changing employers or opening IRAs. If collecting and managing multiple retirement accounts isn’t your idea of a hobby, you may want to consider a rollover to simplify your [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6677">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid91271year-end-review-2012-tax-planning/" ">Year-End Review: 2012 Tax Planning</a></h4><p><p>Think of the remaining days of 2012 as your chance to make assets work as hard as they possibly can. With many tax exemptions and rates set to expire at the end of 2012, below are some tips to help [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6675">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid91767courting-fate-top-reasons-for-church-litigation/" ">Courting Fate: Top Reasons for Church Litigation</a></h4><p><p>Your members, facilities, and the church’s assets are foundational pieces of your ministry. As a pastor, you need to make sure that they are adequately protected. Over the last two years there have been two presiding reasons why churches were [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6674">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid92067concealed-carry-church-safety/" ">Concealed Carry &#038; Church Safety</a></h4><p><p>In light of the recent shooting at The Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, many churches are raising concerns about security.</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6673">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid92651preparing-for-the-fiscal-cliff/" ">Preparing for the Fiscal Cliff</a></h4><p><p>The term “fiscal cliff” was first coined by Ben Bernanke, chairman of the United States Federal Reserve, in reference to the possible effects of the Budget Control Act of 2011. The Act will become effective on January 1, 2013. The [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6670">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid88295planned-giving-through-charitable-gift-annuities/" ">Planned Giving Through Charitable Gift Annuities</a></h4><p><p>Planned giving allows you to manage your wealth while blessing the ministries you feel called to serve. Through a unique marriage of stewardship and financial planning, it allows you to reach your goals for yourself, family, and ministry. There are [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6669">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid8750110-little-tips-that-impact-your-financial-future-in-a-big-way/" ">10 Little Tips That Impact Your Financial Future in a Big Way</a></h4><p><p>“The wise man saves for the future but the foolish man spends whatever he gets.” Proverbs 21:20 This verse provides a stark contrast to the common phrase, “the more you make, the more you spend.” With that mentality in mind, [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6668">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid86683understanding-church-insurance-property-coverage/" ">Understanding Church Insurance: Property Coverage</a></h4><p><p>There are basically two types of insurance: property and liability. While liability insurance covers the actions that could leave the church liable for damage to others, including injuries and damage to a person’s property or reputation, property coverage protects the [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6667">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid86097does-your-future-include-some-r-r/" ">Does Your Future Include Some R&#038;R</a></h4><p><p>Retirement Rescue or “R+R” was the theme last week as AG Financial Solutions partnered with the Wisconsin-Northern Michigan District of the Assemblies of God on a district-wide retirement tour. Workshops were held at six key locations throughout the district, walking [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6666">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid82781protecting-your-board-against-liability/" ">Protecting Your Board Against Liability</a></h4><p><p>In a recent incident, the individual members of a church board were personally sued for losses that occurred at their church. The lawsuit was a result of an incident that occurred at the church between a minor and an individual [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6665">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid77227a-new-year-a-new-look-at-iras/" ">A New Year, A New Look at IRAs</a></h4><p><p>The year 2011 is past, and your financial plans for 2012 are probably well underway. But have you taken a look at your retirement accounts lately? There is still time to make contributions for 2011. And there are options and [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6664">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid77120insurance-rates-set-to-rise-in-2012/" ">Insurance Rates Set to Rise in 2012</a></h4><p><p>As 2011 came to a close, most indicators pointed to an inevitable rise in insurance prices. National disasters—including the tornado in Joplin, Missouri—increased claims payouts to unsustainable levels. In response, the price of reinsurance to insurance companies has now risen [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6663">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid70875year-end-checkup-for-taxes/" ">Year-End Checkup for Taxes</a></h4><p><p>With December 31 fast approaching, now is the time to think about year-end tax planning options. For many, year-end tax planning is about as much fun as going to the doctor for an annual physical. But just as a yearly [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6661">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid70869winter-weather-advisory-prepare-now-to-protect-your-facility/" ">Winter Weather Advisory: Prepare Now to Protect Your Facility</a></h4><p><p>We all want to be prepared and protected for the future. Now is the time to make certain you have your ministry facility protected against the onslaught of winter. Every year we see claims reported due to pipes freezing and [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6660">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid60622how-to-transform-your-savings/" ">How to Transform Your Savings</a></h4><p><p>Are You a Saver or Spender? Before you answer that question, consider this situation: You just received a bonus at work or made $100 from a garage sale. What are your first thoughts? Do you save the money, or treat [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6659">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid60542is-your-church-prepared-for-a-natural-disaster/" ">Is Your Church Prepared for a Natural Disaster?</a></h4><p><p>On Sunday, May 22, 2011, a devastating EF5 tornado hit Joplin, Missouri. It ranks as one of the nation’s deadliest tornados, taking 159 lives and causing over $3 billion worth of damage. No one could have foreseen or truly prepared [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6658">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55220how-to-develop-a-church-budget/" ">How to Develop a Church Budget</a></h4><p><p>There are primarily two ways to create a budget for your church. One is a zero- based budget, where you analyze specific future needs for the year and estimate projected income and expenses for each line item. The other way [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6657">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55193got-a-refund-get-creative/" ">Got a Refund? Get Creative?</a></h4><p><p>Did you know the average tax refund for Americans in 2010 was about $3,000? While it might be a nice surprise to see a few thousand dollars around April 15, the reality is that your money wasn’t earning any interest [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6656">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55080what-can-i-do-to-qualify-for-the-best-church-loan/" ">What Can I do to Qualify for the Best Church Loan?</a></h4><p><p>Prior to beginning the loan application process, it is important for pastors and church boards to understand the factors considered by lenders when evaluating a church loan. Although specific underwriting criteria vary, it is fair to say that most lenders [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6655">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55062leave-a-lasting-legacy-to-your-children/" ">Leave a Lasting Legacy to Your Children</a></h4><p><p>What kind of inheritance should you leave your children?</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6654">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid55054get-a-jump-on-risk-management/" ">Get a Jump on Risk Management</a></h4><p><p>In today’s litigious society, churches need to be proactive in risk management. Buying insurance is only one avenue for helping protect the church, its employees, its congregation and its reputation. A claim can be higher than your limit of insurance, [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6653">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/bid49194what-you-need-to-know-about-a-403b-rollover/" ">What You Need to Know About a 403b Rollover</a></h4><p><p>Many Americans end up with two or three retirement accounts due to changing employers or opening IRAs. If collecting and managing multiple retirement accounts isn’t your idea of a hobby, you may want to consider a rollover as an ideal [&hellip;]</p>
</p>        </li>
        
        
                <li class="post" id="post-6652">
				<h4><a href="http://www.agfinancial.org/blog/prepare-your-church-for-winter-weather/" ">Prepare Your Church for Winter Weather</a></h4><p><p>Winter has arrived, with its accompanying snow, ice, and freezing temps. Before the next big storm hits, make sure you&#8217;ve adequately addressed the following cold weather hazards so you can protect your congregation and facilities.</p>
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