Electronic Signature for Checks/Paychecks

[antiochmbc]

Will Powerchurch allow the use of electronic signatures on computer generated checks? I haven't been able to find any information in the manual that discusses this topic. Our church writes quite a few checks in a month's time and I would hate to think that each check will have to be signed individually (with 2 signatures). OR do we have to purchase a signature stamp?

[NeilZ]

Will Powerchurch allow the use of electronic signatures on computer generated checks? I haven't been able to find any information in the manual that discusses this topic. Our church writes quite a few checks in a month's time and I would hate to think that each check will have to be signed individually (with 2 signatures). OR do we have to purchase a signature stamp?

FWIW ... I don't believe so for a number of reasons.

Allowing 'electronic signatures' circumvents any 'separation of powers'. There is no oversight of the check writing process. It makes is too easy for someone to print a check, and pocket the proceeds.

Even the use of a 'signature stamp' is not a good idea for the same reason. A simple Google search brings up numerous church policy manuals that require 2 signatures per check, and the signatories must physically review the check and invoice to prevent any malfeasance.

The church where I work writes about 40 to 60 checks a month. Whenever the office is open, or on Sundays, two of the authorized check signers come to the church and pull the file of checks to be signed. They review the invoice against the bill, and sign it. There are a few EFT transactions that we used, but those are setup to pull directly from the account by government or denominational entities that are authenticated (IRS, state tax, denominational dues/insurance). There are also a few online bills we pay through the bank. We keep these to a few, as only I and the Treasurer have online access, and even there I cannot approve and pay the bills.

As the bookkeeper I not only was glad to see this already in place; if it wasn't in place, I would have demanded that it be implemented as it keeps me above suspicion. I don't even handle cash for the same reason.

While getting the two signatures may slow the process, it does two things: protects the church, and protects the bookkeeper/office staff.