Many of you are making preparations to come home on furlough this year, some for the first time. Following are some tips that can assist you in making a smooth transition. Please let us know if there is any way we can assist you with your plans.
- You may want to consult with your tax preparer before purchasing tickets, as your date of travel will affect your ability to claim the Foreign Income Exclusion.
- Family Week always begins on the third Monday of June. Be sure to put this on your calendar and schedule your travel dates so you can attend. This year’s meeting will be in Shelby, NC.
- Prayer cards can easily be designed and ordered in advance, so they are ready when you arrive in the US. Please be sure to supply the Office with 20-30 copies of your new card.
- You may wish to update your support estimate prior to returning to the US so that you have current information to provide to your supporters. We recommend that support estimates be updated at least once every four years, or as you see changes in your family and ministry.
- You may wish to review your Housing Allowance to be sure it is adequate to cover any needs while you are in the US, especially if you will be renting a home during your furlough.
- Be aware that some financial report items will be different when you are in the US. For example, if you will be driving a vehicle not owned by you, there are different recordkeeping requirements. Meals and lodging will also be affected. We recommend that you read over at least the sections of the manual dealing with vehicle expenses and travel prior to returning to the US, so you are familiar with these items.
- Be aware that your ministry expenses on the field will be very different from what they are on furlough. In addition, you may begin receiving love offerings from churches you visit on furlough, which may increase your overall income. We recommend adjusting your estimated tax payments to allow for these changes.
- Be sure to contact your insurance company to ensure that you will be covered while in the US.
- Be sure to bring all receipts and financial paperwork with you, so that there is no delay in submitting your reports while on furlough.
- While you are in the US, you may wish to consider updating your will and updating any Powers of Attorney or other legal forms. Our staff members are notary publics and may be able to assist you with some aspects of this if you will be in our area during your furlough.
- Be sure to schedule some time to rest and relax. Don’t push yourself and your family to the point of burnout!
- Please be sure to let the Office know in advance of your travel plans!