Year-End Financial Checklist for Local Churches

The close of the year is a chance to finish well, not just a deadline. Careful year-end work gives your church accurate books, keeps you in good standing with your conference and the IRS, and sets up a stronger budget for the year ahead. Use this financial checklist for local churches to walk your treasurer and finance team through the season, one step at a time.

1) Reconcile and Close the Books

2) Meet Your Connectional Commitments

3) Prepare Staff and Clergy Payroll Records

4) Prepare Giving Statements

5) Review Internal Controls

6) Evaluate Reserves and Obligations

7) Look Ahead to the New Budget

See the Local Church Budget Checklist

8) Communicate and Celebrate

Optional (but highly useful)

Quick Tips

✔ Year-end work is easier when you reconcile monthly rather than all at once in December.

✔ Don’t wait for January to ask questions. Your annual conference treasurer’s office can confirm local deadlines and requirements.

✔ A thank-you and a story about impact builds trust and generosity for the year ahead.