This guide will walk you through setting up your Apple Developer account tailored for your Tithely Church App.
Prerequisites:
Though Apple's enrollment process might evolve, there are four constants you've needed for over half a decade. Having these ready will streamline your sign-up:
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D-U-N-S Number:
- Apple uses this to verify your organization's identity and legal entity status.
- They're unique nine-digit numbers by Dun & Bradstreet.
- Check if your church has one or request one here. It's free in most places.
- Note: Dun & Bradstreet might call to update your info. This is unrelated to Tithely.
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Legal Entity Status:
- Your church should be a recognized legal entity to contract with Apple.
- Apple doesn't recognize DBAs, fictitious businesses, trade names, or branches.
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Legal Binding Authority:
- Whoever's enrolling should have the legal power to bind your church to agreements.
- This could be the founder, executive/senior staff, or someone legally designated by senior staff.
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A Publicly Available Website:
- The domain name should be clearly associated with your organization.
Signing Up for a Developer Account:
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Begin your registration at Apple's enrollment page. Use the Apple ID linked to your church's app.
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Post sign-in, you'll choose the Developer Account type. Your main options are:
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Non-Profit: Tougher to set up but might get the $99/year Apple Developer fee waived. If you can validate your non-profit status, this could be ideal. This allows multiple developers; you can add a Tithely team member without sharing your Apple ID.
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Company: More common and simpler than the non-profit route. You can add a Tithely member, who'll set up and deploy your app. The name that appears on the AppStore will likely be your church's.
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After selecting your preferred type, Apple will detail the required documentation. If you've prepared as per the 'Prerequisites', hit the blue 'Continue'.
Next Steps:
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Apple will guide you through the necessary details for joining their Developer Program.
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Upon acceptance, you'll have to grant Tithely access to the account. Instructions for this are provided in Giving Tithely Access to Your Developer Accounts.