How to Keep Track of Church Tithes and Prevent Theft

You probably have ways to remind or encourage your congregation about tithing, but do you know how to keep track of church tithes so you can keep what you receive? Even though it’s unpleasant to think about, criminals could enter your sanctuary with the temptation to steal your offerings.

Plates brimming with dollars are at risk for theft or embezzlement as they’re passed throughout the church. Exposed tithes can be tempting even to church members — often a more difficult fact to think about. Do you have procedures to help keep that money where it belongs?

Protect Offerings with Preventive Measures

What can you do to shield your ministry? Being prepared helps limit the possibility of theft. Define and implement the following procedures to help safeguard offerings. Your staff and volunteers should be trained on the new procedures well in advance.

Develop and write down a policy of checks and balances and include it with your other risk management policies.
Place more than one person in charge of collecting and counting the tithes.
Total amounts should be reported independently and confidentially for church tithes and offerings record keeping.
Run background checks to analyze your offering collection team members’ identities and criminal history.
Count and deposit cash from offering plates on the same day received or lock it in a secure safe until the next available day for deposit.
Be prepared to report suspected theft to the proper authorities: church officials, local law enforcement, etc.

Does your ministry have coverage for theft and other criminal activities?

When looking into how to keep track of church tithes, consider other types of risk exposure. Property and casualty insurance policies can cover theft and other criminal activities. It’s important to review your coverage periodically to ensure it’s comprehensive enough to meet your needs.

At GuideStone®, we walk alongside you to help you understand your risks and get the protection you need. For more information, contact us at InsuranceSolutions@GuideStone.org or (214) 720-2868, Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT and Friday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be construed as legal advice. Readers should use this article as a tool, along with best judgment and any terms or conditions that apply, to determine appropriate policies and procedures for your church’s risk management program.