ECFA is an accreditation agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public’s trust through adherence to Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship™, which focus on board governance, financial transparency, integrity in fundraising, and proper use of charity resources.

Founded in 1979, ECFA provides accreditation to leading Christian nonprofit organizations that faithfully demonstrate compliance with established standards for financial accountability, fundraising and board governance. Members include Christian ministries, denominations, churches, educational institutions and other tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations. Collectively, these organizations represent nearly $20 billion in annual revenue.

Each of the over 1,800 accredited members of ECFA is in compliance with ECFA’s Standards and has functioned for at least 12 months after receiving its 501(c)(3) ruling letter from the IRS (waived for churches that have operated for at least 12 months). Members have received revenues of more than $50,000 during its last fiscal year and have obtained financial statements prepared by an independent CPA.

ECFA accreditation entitles a ministry to use the ECFA seal and receive other Accreditation Benefits. The continuing use of the seal depends on the ministry’s good faith compliance with all ECFA Standards.