Benny Hinn Senate Finance Committee

Benny Hinn’s ministry, World Healing Center Church Inc., was among six ministries investigated by the United States Senate Committee on Finance in 2007. Senator Chuck Grassley, then ranking member and later chairman of the committee, initiated the inquiry to examine the financial practices of several prominent televangelists and determine if they were complying with tax laws as non-profit organizations.

The investigation focused on potential abuses of the tax-exempt status granted to religious organizations. Concerns were raised about lavish lifestyles, personal use of church-owned assets, and a lack of financial transparency. The committee requested detailed financial information from Hinn’s ministry, including details on salaries, expenses, property ownership, and board governance.

The specific areas of concern regarding Benny Hinn’s ministry included questions about Hinn’s personal use of church-owned property, such as luxury homes and vehicles, as well as extensive travel expenses. The committee sought to ascertain whether these expenditures were legitimate ministry-related expenses or constituted personal enrichment. They also inquired about the governance structure of the ministry and the oversight mechanisms in place to prevent financial impropriety.

Benny Hinn initially resisted cooperating fully with the investigation, citing concerns about privacy and the potential for government interference in religious affairs. However, after facing mounting pressure and potential legal repercussions, Hinn’s ministry eventually provided some of the requested documents and information. The process was protracted, and the level of cooperation varied over time.

The Senate Finance Committee released its findings in 2011. While the report did not accuse any of the ministries of breaking the law, it highlighted significant shortcomings in financial transparency and governance practices. The report noted instances of excessive spending on personal items and a lack of independent oversight within the ministries. Specifically, concerning Benny Hinn’s ministry, the committee expressed concerns about the lack of accountability and the potential for abuse of donor funds.

Following the investigation, Hinn’s ministry implemented some reforms to its financial practices, including establishing a board of independent directors. However, questions about Hinn’s wealth and the financial operations of his ministry have persisted. The Senate Finance Committee investigation served as a significant moment in the ongoing debate about the financial accountability of religious organizations and the potential for abuse of the tax-exempt status afforded to them.