Threatening Letters!
Many churches love supporting missions, pastors, and relief efforts around the world — and that’s a great thing. But when those efforts involve sending money to certain countries, especially places like Cuba, there are some important legal issues every church should understand first.
Imagine getting notice that your online giving provider is freezing your online funds and demanding proof that you were not illegally sending funds to a foreign country.
Churches all over the country are getting these notices because they sent missions support to countries currently under embargo by the United States government. (Google this to read the stories.)
The online giving providers are taking steps to protect themselves from legal consequences, fearing they could be liable for funds collected using their platforms.
Providers use AI technology to audit online giving transactions and also to review the social media of churches, searching for support that might be headed for a banned country.
Understand that it is more than wiring money to these countries. Legally you can’t knowingly give funds to any person or organization that might use those funds in a restricted country, unless certain requirements are met.
What does that mean?
Without meeting criteria:
You can’t support a missions project in a restricted country.
You can’t solicit funds for a mission trip to a restricted country.
You can’t send funds to anyone that might spend funds in those countries.
Why This Matters
The U.S. government places economic restrictions (called sanctions or embargoes) on certain countries. These rules apply to everyone in the U.S. — including churches, ministries, and nonprofits. Even when the purpose is humanitarian or ministry-focused, sending money the wrong way can create serious problems.
Common Problems Churches Can Run Into
Blocked or rejected payments
Banks are required to monitor international transfers. If money is sent to a restricted country, the transaction may be delayed, frozen, or denied altogether.
Legal risk
Violating U.S. sanctions laws can lead to fines or other penalties — even if the intent was good.
Licensing requirements
Some countries require special approval (called an OFAC license) before money can be sent. Without it, the transaction may not be legal.
Banking headaches
Many banks won’t process payments tied to sanctioned countries unless all compliance requirements are clearly met.
Documentation challenges
Churches must be able to clearly document where the money is going, who will receive it, and how it will be used.
Countries Under U.S. Embargo or Heavy Sanctions
U.S. sanctions change over time, but these countries are commonly subject to major restrictions that affect churches:
Most Restrictive / Comprehensive Embargoes
- Cuba
- Iran
- North Korea
- Syria
- Crimea region of Ukraine (including Donetsk & Luhansk regions)
Countries with Significant Restrictions
- Russia
- Belarus
- Venezuela
Even when a country isn’t fully embargoed, certain individuals, organizations, or types of transactions may still be prohibited.
Are we saying to avoid support missions work in these countries? Absolutely not! Just take steps to avoid potential legal issues.
What Churches Should Do Before Sending Funds
✔ Pause before sending — Don’t assume a transfer is allowed just because it’s for ministry or relief.
✔ Check the rules — Sanctions are enforced by the U.S. Treasury Department (OFAC).
✔ Talk to your bank — They can tell you what’s allowed and what documentation is required.
✔ Seek professional guidance — An accountant or legal advisor familiar with church compliance can help you avoid costly mistakes. Contact AG World Missions or an experienced missionary for help.
✔ Keep good records — Always document the purpose and destination of international funds.
What do you do if you get a notice?
Breathe! Don’t panic! Respond only after speaking to a professional.
Several churches have successfully navigated through this process.
A Final Word
Your heart to help is commendable — but good intentions don’t override federal law. Taking time to understand sanctions and embargoes protects your church, your leaders, and your donors, while allowing you to continue supporting global ministry wisely and responsibly.