A pastor at our church in Michigan resigned to begin a separate non-profit ministry. His house has been and is currently deeded to the church. In order to avoid "owning" his home and possibly owing property taxes, he's waiting until he receives a Tax ID # for his new organization before submitting the quit claim deed to transfer the home.

Our church board was agreeable to this at first but it's taking longer than expected. What risk might our church be in since he's no longer an employee yet the property deed suggests he is? Is this illegal?

First off, it does nto take that long to get a tax ID so maybe you are being used for free rent. If the house is deeded to the church, then I suggest the church consult their attorney to review the services contract to see what notices need to be sent to the minister to vacate the house, and to determine at what point that an action for eviction or unlawful detainer can be filed.

Thank you. Maybe I'm still learning all the facts. I spoke with the minister's wife last night and she said they have a tax ID # but the paperwork to make their new ministry "non-profit" is the hold-up (it's been a month). I will look into speaking with an attorney.