Reviews

Best Check-In Systems for Churches

Review the recommended and popular check-in systems for churches.

Planning Center

Planning Center offers a fully integrated check-ins component that can be purchased alongside its main people offering. This system offers a user-friendly interface, customizable check-in forms, and seamless integration with Planning Center’s other platforms. Parents can quickly sign in their kids, and volunteers can efficiently manage the check-in process. Users can access the system via computers, tablets, or mobile phones, just by using the check-in app.

Offers various check-in station options and a free plan for very small churches. Known for robust stewardship and giving management within its broader platform.

KidCheck

KidCheck offers a secure and efficient sign-in process with features like photo ID verification, allergy tracking, and customizable forms. Its user-friendly interface and excellent customer support make it a top choice.

A dedicated children’s check-in system emphasizing safety with PIN-based check-in/out, parent alerts, and emergency notifications. Requires parents to create accounts.

ChurchTrac

ChurchTrac have built their sign-in system around 5 core values – EQUIP, taken from Ephesians 4. Their system offers features like automated check-in, customizable forms, and real-time reporting. Integrates well with their church management platform, providing a comprehensive solution.

An accessible and budget-friendly option suitable for churches of all sizes, especially beginners. Features include secure check-in with printed tags and parent texting. Known for its straightforward pricing and ease of use.

Fellowship One

FellowshipOne’s sign-in system offers features like automated check-in, customizable forms, and real-time reporting. Integrates well with their church management platform, providing a comprehensive solution.

A comprehensive and often enterprise-level ChMS that includes a robust check-in module. Fellowship One is known for its extensive features, including detailed member management, group tracking, and strong financial tools, with the check-in system deeply integrated. It offers various check-in methods and security features. However, its complexity and potentially higher cost point might make it more suitable for larger churches with dedicated administrative staff. Integration with third-party applications can be powerful but may require technical expertise.

Elvanto / Tithe.li

Elvanto’s sign-in system offers features like automated check-in, customizable forms, and real-time reporting. Integrates well with their church management platform, providing a comprehensive solution for churches.

Integrates check-in functionalities with its giving platform and other church management tools. Offers mobile and self-check-in with QR codes and secure guardian pick-up. Requires using the Tithe.ly ChMS.

Church4Kids

Church4Kids is a unique offering in the check-in software space as it is not primarily aimed at larger churches that often have an expensive church management system in place. Church4Kids was primarily developed for smaller churches that run on a tighter budget, and as such, Church4Kids is totally free for smaller churches that have less than 50 registered children.

Whilst being a free product for smaller churches, Church4Kids is still an innovate solution for kids and youth ministries. Offers features like customizable forms, fields and real-time reporting. Provides an admin system, sign-in system and effective monitor system.

Key Aspects to Consider When Evaluating Check-In Systems:

  • Specific Needs: Carefully assess your church’s unique requirements, the size of your children’s ministry, the number of volunteers, and your security concerns.
  • Budget: Understand the pricing structures of each system, including setup fees, monthly costs, and any per-user or per-child charges.
  • Integration: Ensure the chosen system integrates well with your existing ChMS or other essential church software.
  • Ease of Implementation and Training: Consider the learning curve for both volunteers and parents.
  • Support: Evaluate the quality and availability of customer support.

Ultimately, the “top” check-in system for your church will be the one that best aligns with your specific needs, budget, and technical capabilities while enhancing the safety and efficiency of your ministries. It’s highly recommended to request demos and potentially pilot a few different systems before making a final decision.