Why should congregations consider Church Extension over other financial institutions?
 Church Extension is stable. We have been making loans to congregations since 1883. We understand your ministries and your history. We understand congregational life cycles. We pray with you and we stay with you. We can help you when banks can't, including the availability of low and zero-interest loans for special circumstances.

What else does Church Extension do besides make loans?

Church Extension also offers building and architectural consultations, capital fund raising, investments, and more. We want to be a partner in your ministry. When your ministry flourishes, so does ours. It's about Disciples working together to do God's work.

What kinds of loans does Church Extension make?

• Accessibility loans for renovations that remove barriers for people with physical disabilities
  
• "Green" loans for energy efficiency renovations and environmentally-friendly construction
  
• Interest-free loans for special circumstances
  
• New church loans for building and property
  
• Construction loans for renovation, building repair, and remodeling
  
• Special projects loans for community kitchens, green space and gardens outside building, thrift store, and more  
  
  

Also, Church Extension can:

• Refinance existing debt
  
• Provide interest–free loans for new churches
  
• Provide interest–free loans for natural disaster repairs and reconstruction in certain situations
  
• Make short term adjustable-rate loans
  

What is the loan application?

We have created the Loan Tool Box so you can see exactly what the process is.

What is the difference between a church loan and a residential loan?

Church loans are considered commercial loans, therefore, the process and requirements to secure a loan are very different. The loans are based on cash flow and income to service debt. That is, congregations need to demonstrate an ability to pay back the loan. Lending institutions tend to consider commercial loans more risky, thus the adjustable rate mortgages, higher interest rates, and larger down payment, as well as a rigorous review of the organization's—your church's—financial statements.

What information is needed from congregations to apply for a loan?

1. Income/Expense statements: Three years' worth (2008, 2009, and 2010)
   
2. Balance sheet
   
3. Worship Statistics: Average worship attendance, participating membership, and number of tax statements issued each year
   
4. Project information: Includes bids for renovation or construction, purchase agreements, and any other relevant documentation
   
5. Statement: Brief statement detailing the loan purpose and repayment options (such as capital campaign, operations budget, fundraising, or rental income.
   

Visit the Loan Process section for an overview of the process.

What interest rates does Church Extension charge?

Church Extension offers competitive rates. Ultimately, it depends on the kind of loan you have and the length of the loan term. Our staff can guide you through various options, including special interest rates and incentive programs that can help you lower your interest rate.

How does Church Extension set its interest rates?

Church Extension is a financial ministry, and as such, sets it loan rates based on its cost of funds.

How long does the loan process take?

It depends on your project, the amount of money you need, as well as time required to process title work and the mortgage.

Who is eligible for a Church Extension loan?

• Disciples congregations
  
• Disciples Regions and Areas Disciples
  
• General Ministries and the General Assembly
  
• Disciples colleges and seminaries
  
• Racial/ethnic Disciples congregations, including
  
• Assembly congregations
  
• Any organization listed in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Year Book and Directory
  The Christian Church in Puerto Rico and congregations listed in their Annual Report
  
  How is Church Extension regulated?

  Church Extension is regulated by state securities administrators. Church Extension is not regulated by the FDIC.
  
  Contact info@churchextension.org to find out how we can partner with your ministry.

  Or call 800.274.1883

  En español: 866.534.1949