The Church Office Sustainable Ministry: Cash Flow Planning for Churches
Nov 29, 2025
Tim Wyatt, an accountant and church finance specialist, returns to share crucial insights on cash flow and reserves for churches. He discusses the vital difference between cash flow and budgeting, emphasizing why churches should monitor their cash closely. Tim provides practical tips for forecasting, along with insights into how reserves can support mission and vision. He highlights real risks of neglecting cash management, using a cautionary tale from a charity. Governance and shared financial responsibility are also key themes that emerge in their engaging conversation.
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Cash Flow Is Different From A Budget
- A cash flow differs from a budget by tracking actual bank balances over time rather than annual income/expenditure targets.
- Tim Wyatt says cash flow is a factual early-warning map showing what comes in, what goes out, and what remains in the bank.
Use Cash Flow As An Early Warning System
- Use a cash flow as an early-warning system to raise flags before problems arise.
- Review it regularly and act on amber warnings rather than waiting for crisis signals.
Risk Profile Shapes Financial Decisions
- Assess your church's cash risk profile by factors like income timing, one-off donations, and staff commitments.
- Knowing your risk profile changes how you interpret budgets and plan reserves.