{"id":27931,"date":"2025-02-11T04:51:03","date_gmt":"2025-02-11T09:51:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=27931"},"modified":"2026-07-09T10:27:32","modified_gmt":"2026-07-09T14:27:32","slug":"how-to-use-church-financial-reporting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/how-to-use-church-financial-reporting\/","title":{"rendered":"How to use church financial reporting as a pastoral tool"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--generic\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/category\/strategy-legal-operations\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Strategy, Legal &amp; Operations<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow to use church financial reporting as a pastoral tool\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2025-02-11T04:51:03-05:00\">February 11, 2025<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"How to use church financial reporting as a pastoral tool\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/how-to-use-church-financial-reporting\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/author\/douglasbonderud\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2019\/11\/Bonderud-Headshot.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" height=\"40\" width=\"40\" fetchpriority=\"high\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Douglas Bonderud<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite economic challenges, congregations have stepped up to help meet church needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to data from the <a href=\"https:\/\/christianstandard.com\/2024\/07\/a-financial-deep-dive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Christian Standard<\/a>, 57% of churches said giving exceeded their budget in 2023, and 22% said it met their financial requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This substantive and sustained giving represents the trust your congregation has in your ministry team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Honoring this trust requires transparent church financial reporting practices to ensure money is wisely spent and that spending aligns with community and outreach goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Complete financial reporting also acts as a pastoral tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Equipped with knowledge about giving trends, funding models, and spending predictions, your church leaders can speak to scriptural teachings around financial management, and demonstrate their commitment to positive community impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-here-s-what-we-ll-cover\">Here&#8217;s what we&#8217;ll cover<\/h3>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-understanding-the-role-of-financial-reporting-in-ministry\" data-level=\"2\">Understanding the role of financial reporting in ministry<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-key-components-of-effective-church-financial-reporting\" data-level=\"2\">Key components of effective church financial reporting<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-using-financial-reports-as-a-pastoral-communication-tool\" data-level=\"2\">Using financial reports as a pastoral communication tool<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-educating-the-congregation-on-stewardship\" data-level=\"2\">Educating the congregation on stewardship<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-strengthening-ministry-impact-with-financial-insights\" data-level=\"2\">Strengthening ministry impact with financial insights<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-best-practices-for-effective-reporting\" data-level=\"2\">Best practices for effective reporting<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-overcoming-challenges-in-financial-reporting\" data-level=\"2\">Overcoming challenges in financial reporting<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-faith-and-finance-fostering-trust-and-transparency\" data-level=\"2\">Faith and finance: Fostering trust and transparency<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">8 tips for using technology to manage church finances<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Discover the tools to demonstrate good stewardship among the committees, staff, and fiduciaries entrusted with management over church assets.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-a9383dec-dd23-424d-92b5-647dacd7a8ab\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1411\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/02\/shutterstock_1664636290_c2222-1-1411x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Volunteers framing a house\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/02\/shutterstock_1664636290_c2222-1-1411x810.jpg 1411w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-understanding-the-role-of-financial-reporting-in-ministry\">Understanding the role of financial reporting in ministry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unlike most businesses, much of the money received by churches goes toward faith-based missions that aren&#8217;t designed to make a profit\u2014instead, they&#8217;re meant to act in service to others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Financial management is inseparable from the mission of ministry. Like any business, your church needs to know how much money is coming in, how much is going out, and where money is being spent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a result, church financial reporting plays three critical roles in your ministry:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-accountability-and-stewardship\"><strong>Accountability and stewardship<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Effective financial management demonstrates accountability to congregations and builds confidence in the stewardship practices of your ministry leaders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Congregations want to know that their contributions are being used effectively, and transparent financial reporting makes this possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-transparency-as-a-trust-builder\"><strong>Transparency as a trust builder<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trust is the cornerstone of effective ministry. Financial transparency builds trust and cultivates your community, since your congregation can see the direct impact of its monetary contributions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-alignment-with-biblical-principles\"><strong>Alignment with biblical principles<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Biblical principles also speak to the need for careful and comprehensive financial management. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, Proverbs 21:5 says that &#8220;the plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty,&#8221; while Luke 14:28 says &#8220;Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won&#8217;t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?&#8221; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">in scripture, financial intelligence and diligence are praised, making complete financial reporting a key element of Biblical alignment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-components-of-effective-church-financial-reporting\">Key components of effective church financial reporting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Three components are critical for effective church financial reporting: integration, automation, and visibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your church needs tools that integrate with current financial data sources, and can then automate key tasks related to collecting, analyzing, and reporting on this data. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your ministry team also needs solutions that provide complete visibility. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This not only makes it easier to anticipate giving surpluses or shortfalls but also provides transparency to help ensure regulatory compliance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, many states require churches to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.churchlawandtax.com\/pastor-church-law\/organization-and-administration\/reporting-requirements\/state-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">file an annual corporate report<\/a>. Under federal law, meanwhile, you must also report tax information for any employees or self-employed workers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key elements of an effective church financial report include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-income-and-donations\"><strong>Income and donations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These include tithes, offerings, and special funds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reports should also detail the source of this income to your church.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Identify how people are giving\u2014are donations one-time or recurring?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are they small amounts spread out across your congregation, or large amounts from specific givers?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-expenses\"><strong>Expenses<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Expenses include staff wages, lease or mortgage payments, utility bills, and the costs of any internal or external outreach programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, look into providing financial assistance for congregants in need or invest in community outreach programs to help the less fortunate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-budget-versus-actual-performance\"><strong>Budget versus actual performance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Estimated budgets and actual performance don&#8217;t always align.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transparent reporting helps ensure your church doesn&#8217;t end up spending money it doesn\u2019t have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-designated-funds-and-restricted-accounts\"><strong>Designated funds and restricted accounts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some of the money collected by churches is marked as unrestricted, meaning it can be used for any necessary purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other funds are designated for specific outreach or ministry, and some collections are placed into restricted accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding the value of each is essential for a complete financial picture for your church.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Customized reports are also essential for your church\u2019s financial reporting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While every ministry deals with similar data, your details may differ significantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, a church with thousands of members across multiple campuses will have different financial needs than a small, local congregation that numbers less than 100.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While transparency is critical in both cases, the amount of money received\u2014and how this money is used\u2014is vastly different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-using-financial-reports-as-a-pastoral-communication-tool\">Using financial reports as a pastoral communication tool<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Equipped with financial report data, your church leadership team is better prepared to take on key pastoral tasks, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-congregant-outreach-and-support\">Congregant outreach and support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Charity is a central tenant of effective ministry, but outreach and support are only effective if churches understand their financial outlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With advanced reporting tools your team can access key metrics such as total giving amounts over a set period, the total number of first-time, second-time, lapsed, and recovery givers, and the average giver retention rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This provides deep insight into your donor&#8217;s funds and helps plan future projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-celebrating-generosity\">Celebrating generosity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your ministry team can also use giving data to highlight the impact of congregational generosity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This could include details about mission trips or community outreach projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This helps to bond your congregants over aligned goals, strengthen future pledge drives, and attract future first-time donors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-setting-vision-and-goals\">Setting vision and goals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Complete financial reporting can help your church align its future vision with attainable goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These might include expanding your community programs, adding new staff, or building additional campuses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p><em>&#8220;Because of our streamlined processes, our existing finance staff are in a great position to support Potential Church even as we add another 10 campuses.&#8221;<\/em><\/p><cite><em>Reggie Alexis, controller, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/success-stories\/potential-church\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Potential Church<\/em><\/a><em>.<\/em><\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-encouraging-participation\">Encouraging participation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Financial data helps your ministry team encourage participation in new initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, if your leadership can show the positive impact of giving on community outreach programs such as providing food, shelter, and other care, they can encourage purposeful giving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-educating-the-congregation-on-stewardship\">Educating the congregation on stewardship<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Financial stewardship is fundamental for both personal and pastoral stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a result, financial data offers more than a numerical overview of current conditions\u2014it also provides the opportunity to educate congregations on stewardship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, your team can use reports to teach biblical financial principles, such as the need for carefully considered spending and the avoidance of acquiring wealth for wealth&#8217;s sake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Data can also demonstrate the importance of tithing and offering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By connecting financial giving to the impact of your community programs, your church can show a direct connection between generosity and positive outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">8 tips for using technology to manage church finances<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Discover the tools to demonstrate good stewardship among the committees, staff, and fiduciaries entrusted with management over church assets.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-a9383dec-dd23-424d-92b5-647dacd7a8ab\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1411\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/02\/shutterstock_1664636290_c2222-1-1411x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Volunteers framing a house\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/02\/shutterstock_1664636290_c2222-1-1411x810.jpg 1411w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-strengthening-ministry-impact-with-financial-insights\">Strengthening ministry impact with financial insights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Effective financial management can help strengthen your ministry impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Data tied to resource allocation can improve monetary distribution to help support an underfunded ministry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These might include any community outreach programs that are showing success but are limited in the number of people they can help due to financial constraints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trend data, meanwhile, such as average giving amounts and total number of givers, can be used as the basis for new initiatives or the expansion of your current programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-practices-for-effective-reporting\">Best practices for effective reporting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While every church is different, three best practices are broadly applicable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-use-purpose-built-financial-software-tools\">1. Use purpose-built financial software tools<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First, it&#8217;s worth implementing software tools purpose-built for church financial management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/sage-business-cloud\/intacct\/industry\/nonprofit\/churches-faith-based-organizations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sage Intacct Ministry Intelligence<\/a> provides in-depth metrics about giving and spending trends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The solution can be deployed immediately and integrated with current tools thanks to open API architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-create-consistent-reporting-practices\">2. Create consistent reporting practices<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s also important to create consistent reporting practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These include regular reporting schedules (weekly, quarterly, monthly, etc.) along with clearly defined report formats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is especially critical if your church has multiple campuses and large finance teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-leverage-visual-aids-such-as-charts-and-graphs\">3. Leverage visual aids such as charts and graphs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, consider using tools that provide comprehensive data dashboards which include visual aids, such as charts and graphs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This visual approach makes it easier to contextualize financial data and determine the best way forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-overcoming-challenges-in-financial-reporting\">Overcoming challenges in financial reporting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The complex nature of church finances creates several common challenges. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many ministry teams, the most pressing are technology limitations and manual reporting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your team may also be hesitant to engage the congregation in discussions about church finances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As part of creating a trusting, transparent environment, however, this is essential. Here, three strategies are helpful:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-be-clear\">Be clear<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t mince words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If giving numbers are low, say so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If they&#8217;re consistent but more money is needed for specific programs, be earnest and honest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your congregation is a community, and financial stability is in everyone&#8217;s best interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-be-consistent\">Be consistent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consistent messaging is also key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means keeping your congregation updated on what&#8217;s happening, how teams are responding, and what comes next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-be-encouraging\">Be encouraging<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, focus on the positive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your church finances aren&#8217;t ideal, encourage your congregation to come together and make a difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Community is a powerful force.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your church can also benefit from professional financial advice as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This may include external audits to ensure its finances are accurate and complete, or the use of financial tools backed by comprehensive support to help give your team financial transparency and improve decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p><em>&#8220;With Sage Intacct, we&#8217;re able to look at various scenarios and know what the impact of certain decisions would be.&#8221;<\/em><\/p><cite><em>Glenn Wood, pastor of church administration, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/success-stories\/seacoast-church\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Seacoast Church.<\/em><\/a><\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faith-and-finance-fostering-trust-and-transparency\">Faith and finance: Fostering trust and transparency<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Equipped with a complete picture of current finances and future trends, ministry teams are better prepared to demonstrate the impact of giving on community programs, explore the role of financial stewardship in spirituality, and foster a culture of trust and transparency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><strong><a href=\"#gate-a9383dec-dd23-424d-92b5-647dacd7a8ab\">Take control of your financial future: Download the 8 Tips for Using Technology to Manage Church Finances e-book.<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to our Sage Advice Newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Get our latest business advice delivered directly to your inbox.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-ab515c6e-7e90-4c2f-a67e-113872516e8b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Working from home with tea in hand\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/business-intelligence\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness intelligence\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/performance\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPerformance and Culture\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/technology\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTechnology\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/workplace-of-the-future\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe future of work\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-30823 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-cash-flow tag-small-business tag-starting-a-business tag-staying-competitive business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-24T09:08:55-04:00\">June 24, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">13 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/how-to-track-business-expenses\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHow to keep track of business expenses\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tIf you&#8217;re responsible for managing business finances, keeping track of expenses affects how clearly you can see your cash flow and make informed decisions. Learn the key steps, best tools, and how to build a process that keeps your finances accurate and error free. \t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-30598 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-business-strategy tag-sage-news tag-security-fraud tag-small-business tag-starting-a-business business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-expense-report-fraud\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-684x384.jpeg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A person giving a presentation to colleagues.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-684x384.jpeg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/BrandShootLDN_Jul2022_TechSoftware_0620-1440x810.jpeg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-24T05:46:09-04:00\">June 24, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tExpense fraud: How to detect and prevent it in your organization\u00a0\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-29062 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-growing-a-business tag-inventory-management tag-productivity tag-staying-competitive tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-an-order-management-system-oms\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1417607997-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-10T10:25:03-04:00\">June 10, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">19 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is an order management system?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-28210 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-growth-customers category-strategy-legal-operations tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-business-strategy tag-distribution tag-growing-a-business tag-inventory-management tag-productivity tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business industry-distribution industry-wholesale-distribution\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-order-processing\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-02T11:22:21-04:00\">June 2, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">19 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tOrder processing explained: Steps, systems and best practices\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-29487 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-continuity tag-business-intelligence tag-cash-flow tag-sage-accounting tag-small-business tag-starting-a-business business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/accounts-payable-vs-notes-payable\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-1214x810.jpg 1214w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-22T12:03:36-04:00\">May 22, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tNotes payable vs accounts payable: Differences and examples\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Comprehensive and transparent church financial reporting can both enhance community trust and act as a pastoral tool. Here&#8217;s how.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":924,"featured_media":9258,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[46,44],"tags":[4,253,154,250],"business_type":[40,41],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[58],"persona":[100,98,96],"imagine_tag":[436,444,472],"coauthors":[617],"class_list":["post-27931","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-growth-customers","category-strategy-legal-operations","tag-business-intelligence","tag-performance","tag-technology","tag-workplace-of-the-future","business_type-small-business","business_type-growing-business","industry-nonprofit"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Douglas Bonderud","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-599890832.jpg","imagine_tags":{"436":"Intacct Accounting","444":"Intacct Medium Business","472":"Nonprofit"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice US","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27931","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/924"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27931"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27931\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37106,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27931\/revisions\/37106"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/9258"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27931"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=27931"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=27931"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}