The Book of Discipline calls for every church's committee on finance to conduct an annual audit of the congregation's financial records that will be compiled into a report and submitted to the annual charge conference (258.4d). The audit helps the church manage its finances and assets responsibly while ensuring donations, legacies and other gifts are distributed in accordance to the wishes of the donors and the policies of the denomination.
The General Council on Finance and Administration has developed the Local Church Audit Guide to walk congregations through the audit and ensure they comply with the denomination and federal government. The 20-page guide covers each step in the audit process, what financial information needs to go in the report, who needs to review it and other helpful tips.