Our clown ministry has a policy of NOT charging for facepainting. We have little jars with signs that say, "Donations". Not everyone feels obligated to pay for
facepainting. I supply my own paints, not the church.

Can a church ministry _legally_ charge for services rendered? If so, how would be go about doing it so that
the church doesn't loose it's tax exempt status? I don't mind painting for donations, but there were several kids taking definate advantage of our generosity.

Actually, being non-profit simply means that any money collected goes back into the ministry or organization, so charging will have NO effect on your tax exempt status whatsoever! You're right about people taking advantage. Charging helps with that. Obviously, because it's a ministry, if someone can't afford it, you could kind of "give them a scholarship". :lol:
Jubilee

There are certain events we sponser all others we charge, the fee goes to support our clown ministry which goes in to hospitals, nursing home, children home, and community events. We are forunate to receive a grant, from a local foundation. Birthday parties are set fees depending on the type of party and number of children, Big events depend on time and # of clowns and type of service, walk arounds or a show. People will take advantage of you and clowning can be very expensive. I explain that our fee goes to continuing education, supplies, and equipment.

Charging for necessities and expenses does not effect TAX.

A useful way of getting more funds for your paints is to offer a photo service. You and little johnny in a polaroid picture. Again, its all going back for expenses and adds a little extra.

:lol: :lol: :lol: