A.) REQUESTS, CORRESPONDENCE, & SERVICES RENDERED: Appointed Time Press, LLC seeks to serve the public with excellence and integrity. We offer products and services in accordance with the defined capacities of our CORE fundamental Vision, Purpose, Mission, Objectives, Doctrinal Statement, and Statement of Faith. Any other product or service rendered, exclusive to those defined capacities, is at the sole discretion of administration.

Our preferred method of correspondence is email which is provided via our requisition forms. These forms are request specific. Therefore, all requests should be presented via the appropriate requisition forms provided. When a requisition form is not functioning please use our contact page. Requisitions are prioritized and then processed in the order received. Their fulfillment is contingent upon the information provided by the visitor/user.

A1.)  Requisitions: Appointed Time Press, LLC supplies visitors the opportunity to make requests of this ministry via our requisition and contact forms provided on our website. These are request-specific, being designed for efficiency, accuracy, and convenience, and are provided as a courtesy and service to our visitors. Our goal is to respond to all requisitions within 24-48 business hours.

Each form determines the initial information needed to process the specified request. Whether or not that request is fulfilled is contingent upon the information provided by the visitor/user. The visitor/user is free to disclose information at his or her own free will and discretion. For requests to be processed, although they may have been verbally discussed beforehand, a requisition must be received in writing so authentication and verification can be achieved. If we require additional information to process the proposed request, we hold the right to further inquire. We may notify of this inquiry at the designated contact information. We will only seek to collect the information necessary to fulfill the proposed request and our obligation to the visitor.

A2.)  Verification & the Vetting Process: Appointed Time Press, LLC has security checks in place for all levels of correspondence. However, when collaborating with individuals and entities toward a specific goal or purpose, the level of vetting will be determined by the proposed request submitted by the visitor/user. Properly identifying and verifying individuals and entities is a critical component to the security of public relations, professional correspondence, and the services we provide. When contacting us with requests for a particular service proper verification is mandatory for the protection of this company before any agreement can be officiated. A thorough vetting process protects Appointed Time Press, LLC and all those we serve.

Appointed Time Press, LLC will not correspond, associate or cooperate with individuals or entities, regardless of origin, who cannot be verified, or who are of questionable identity, reputation, or intent. When verification cannot be rightfully proven or obtained, legally or otherwise, all correspondence will cease for the sake of the integrity of this company and the protection of those we serve.

A3.) Authentication & Authorization: We have chosen Google to securely transmit our internal emails. We have chosen Docusign to perform secured online data transactions.

1.) Authentication

Authentication is the first line of security in transmitting data, and is therefore the most critical component to cybersecurity. There are many types of authentication, which is different from “authorization”, as authorization by a user cannot occur without proper authentication. Authentication practices protect both parties. For example, when a user enters their email to subscribe, they receive an automated email from us asking them to verify their subscription. They must “authenticate” that request by choosing to either validate or cancel it. Again, authentication is necessary for authorization. Unless the user authenticates that request, we have no authorization to add them to our list. This is known as a “double opt-in” or “confirmation opt-in” by the GDPR.

We use several means of authentication. The first is our SSL (secured socket layer) certificate, which encrypts all user information transmitted via the web. SSL certificates are now standard for all websites transmitting PII data, and are enforceable by law should a data breach occur. Another simple but powerful means of authentication is the “ReCaptcha” feature on all our forms. This authenticates the user as being a human. Other means of authentication are internal. We reserve the right to check encryptions via email and the security certificates of their servers. Whenever it is necessary, or if anything remains in question, we reserve the right to pursue proper means of authentication prior to acting on any user’s behalf. This is an independent judicial act that protects both parties.

Authentication practices are subject to the cybersecurity and privacy laws established by state and federal governments (both national and international). Because our chosen means of correspondence is via email, which is enabled via our website forms and requisitions, we achieve authentication via emails in the following manner: they must come from our website server if they are to be answered, wherein a time stamp and signature accompanies the correspondence with the minimum of a proper TLS (Transport Layer Security) standard encryption. When authentication is practiced diligently and appropriately all parties benefit from the security, ease of reference, and validation it provides. Email also provides a versatile platform for a wide range of documentation and information types which can be securely received, shared, stored, and retrieved.

Correspondence that is not authenticated cannot be traced, verified, or referenced, and therefore provides limited means whereby secure and private exchanges can be performed. Therefore, we reserve the right to employ the appropriate means necessary to achieve authentication with whatever type of correspondence or information exchange is being conducted (i.e. social media, chats, phone calls, texts, fax, shipments, standard mail, etc.).

a.) Appointed Time Press, LLC may not receive and/or respond to email that is:

1.) from questionable sources
2.) not generated from the designated portals on our website
3.) containing malicious content such as spam or malware
4.) sent from unsecured or unidentified servers
5.) sent with internal links

b.) Proper authentication ensures the following:

1.) Compliance with security and privacy laws.
2.) Security and privacy of all information exchanges and correspondence types.
3.) Verification of identity.
4.) Authorization for a party to act.

2.) Authorization

Our security practices are very strict, as we are careful to abide by national and international security and privacy laws. In any circumstance, authorization is always subject to proper authentication. Neither party is authorized to act without proper authentication being achieved via the above described means (which are not comprehensive).

A4.) Blind Third-Party Requests: There are times when requests come that are initiated on behalf of someone else. That request may come to us without that individual’s knowledge and consent. This is known as a “blind third-party request”. Blind third party requests cannot be authenticated and are therefore prohibited. Although these are often done with good will and intention, such requests pose liabilities and risks of various kinds. Therefore, Appointed Time Press, LLC will not cooperate with blind third-party requests. Each party making the request must correspond themselves with full knowledge, free will, and informed consent.

A5.)  Agreements & Contracts: Agreements and contracts may be necessitated for the appropriate rendering or receiving of specific services. All contracts are conducted via Docusign. Agreements and contracts are very similar in purpose and intent, yet are different in their legal structure and liabilities:

A.) Agreements: Agreements are good-faith documents whereby both parties mutually consent to terms upon which a proposed request for service is rendered or received, and are not legally binding. An agreement is established at will and in good faith upon the mutual consent of both parties, and may be terminated at will without any further obligation or liability. If liabilities are assessed whereby either party would incur damages or losses which propose risks greater than what can rightfully be absorbed, then a contract is in order and should be sought.

B.) Contracts: A contract is legally binding, and will always be specifically stated as such. The terms often include liabilities and contingencies of a legal nature due to monies exchanged and services performed. All such terms are carefully outlined and delineated. Contracts allow for legal recompense or reparation to be justly sought and awarded in the event of a breach of that contract.

All contracts requiring payment will be invoiced at the time of signing. Signed contracts will remain inactive up to 30 days, at which time the contract will become null and void if payment is not received. For more on fees, invoicing and financial transactions, please see Article F.

All agreements and contracts must be drawn in writing and signed by both parties. No agreement will be officiated by verbal consent. Under certain conditions, agreements and/or contracts may require a notary. For more on how Appointed Time Press, LLC handles agreements and contracts please contact us.

A6.) Transparency: Appointed Time Press, LLC believes transparency is a critical component to creating trust in public relations and maintaining legal compliance. We also believe transparency is a practice of accountability to those we serve, and stewardship toward God with regard to all He’s entrusted to us. This page is an effort toward the practice of of transparency with our users and visitors. We are not obligated to publicly disclose our policies, but have chosen to do so as a courtesy with the hopes it will better serve the public. However, transparency should never compromise or jeopardize the security, privacy, and integrity of this ministry or any other individual or entity with whom information exchanges are conducted. Therefore, the terms upon which information is disclosed and to whom is always carefully considered with respect to transparency, and is at the sole discretion of Appointed Time Press, LLC.

We welcome and encourage any user/visitor to request more information regarding any specific policy prior to engagement with us, if they so choose. Those requests should be submitted via our contact page.

A7.) Spam: We have a zero tolerance policy for spam, regardless of its kind. We will take action and report all spam to the appropriate authorities when necessary.

Spam, by definition, is the sending of irrelevant and unsolicited messages to mass recipients. It often involves (1) the unauthorized use of any contact information belonging to an individual or entity without their authorization, regardless of intention, and (2) solicitations that are of malicious intent. Malicious spam is always unsolicited and often contains internal links, code, or imaging, malware, spyware, and tracking for the purpose of phishing for PII and secured content. This type of spamming is most commonly seen in mass emailing or messaging. Spam is not limited to email. It can be generated via any form of contact including (but not limited to) phone calls, emailing, messaging, chatting, and within a wide variety of social messaging apps.

The initiation of all correspondence must be achieved via our secured website portals. Once an email thread is initiated, our email address is disclosed by law to that particular individual or entity. Any unauthorized use or abuse of that internal email will be reported as spam and permanently blocked. We also hold the right to report the company or individual who has abused our email and/or misused the corresponding information therein. We also hold the right to prosecute in cases where data breaches have occurred due to negligence, misuse, or abuse.

For more on how we handle, use, and store any visitor/user emails and other PII please see our privacy policy.

A8.) Reporting: Appointed Time Press, LLC holds the sovereign right and has a moral, ethical, and legal obligation to report illegal or malicious behavior(s), both at will and upon the issuing of an official legal warrant by governing authorities — both at home and abroad. In all such cases we will cooperate and comply with governing authorities with the assistance of our legal teams. In unfortunate cases wherein illegal content or activities are either proven, suspected or determined beyond a reasonable doubt, all correspondence will immediately cease, and all evidence will be fully reported and disclosed to the appropriate legal powers and government entities in full accordance with the state and federal laws of the United States of America, and the international laws according to the country of origin from which the violation stems.

B.) SOLICITATIONS: Appointed Time Press, LLC defines solicitations as forthright requests for monies. Although solicitations can vary in kind, the end goal is to obtain money via that specific request. Solicitations can come from individuals, vendors, businesses, or ministries; all with varying purposes and intentions. Solicitations are strictly prohibited by Appointed Time Press, LLC. We do NOT solicit for monies from individuals or entities, nor do we welcome or respond to solicitations for monies by others.

Authentic requests for business or ministry related services or exchanges are not defined as “solicitations”.

For more on donations, please see Article C.

C.) DONATIONS & VOLUNTEERS: We believe giving is biblical, and is to be received with humility and thanksgiving to God. We believe all gifts are sacred and should be stewarded appropriately unto God. We believe giving should be discreet, never under constraint, done with joy, and only as one is able. We will never ask for monies or funds. We do not perform solicitations of any kind. The manner in which giving is conducted and received should be scripturally sound. We believe biblical and legal accountability is absolutely critical in establishing trust and credibility with the public, and should always be handled with integrity, transparency, and proper accountability with financial institutions, accountants, and donors. This means keeping accurate and timely financial records, and the proper use, stewardship, and disbursement of funds, monies, and handling of any and all resources committed to our trust. We strive to maintain accountability toward God, our donors, accountants, and the financial institutions with whom we interact.

There are many ways to give. Appointed Time Press, LLC defines donations as gifted contributions that are unsolicited. They are received at the will and pleasure of the donor who should never be under constraint. Those contributions may take many forms. They are most commonly monies, but can also consist of time, talent, skills, and various other resources by any individual or entity. We provide the appropriate portals of exchange should any individual or entity desire to contribute or participate.

We reserve the right to make our needs known to the public. We choose to do so in a manner that is discreet, biblically appropriate, and scripturally sound. Therefore, any needs we may have will be openly disclosed on our website for pubic viewing.

We also reserve the right to hold fundraisers for specific causes, projects, or other ministries with whom we network.

With regard to financial gifts of any kind, Appointed Time Press, LLC will NEVER send a solicitation to any supporter or subscriber for monies or donations. We do NOT target donors.

1.) Donation Types

a.) Monies & Monetary Gifts from Donors: Monetary donations are not tax-deductible, and are received via our PayPal portal, which is a secured third-party gateway of exchange. PayPal encrypts all user information on their own server and employs their own privacy policy for their users, to which Appointed Time Press, LLC has no liability or affiliation. Donations made to Appointed Time press, LLC are deposited into our account via PayPal. We recommend those who make monetary contributions to keep their receipt from PayPal, and to keep accurate bank statement records.

We offer the following for all donors:

1.) Official monthly statement confirming the receipt of monies or gifts in kind: Statements will be sent via mail and/or email, having our logo and appropriate contact information in the letterhead. Statements will confirm the amount donated, processing times and dates, and the disbursement of funds received for which they were appropriated or designated. Statements are processed on a monthly basis, being 30 days.

2.) Monthly, Quarterly, and Annual Statements: Statements may be requested from our organization when donations are received. We offer monthly, quarterly, and annual statements upon request in an effort to establish trust and maintain transparency with regard to biblical and legal financial stewardship.

b.) Services Rendered by Volunteers: Volunteering is an extraordinary donation, which is a special contribution of time, energy, talent, gifts, skills, and special services by any individual or entity. In addition to our own needs, we network with many ministries, advocating for their support. When receiving volunteer applications we will always do our best to define each specific need, providing enough information to make a wise and informed decision on where gifts and talents can be invested. In the event that opportunities are available with other ministries with whom we network, we would need permission to refer the applicant forward. That referral would entail a simple release of the initial requisition to them via email with written permission from the applicant. Once that referral is made, the terms and conditions of that said ministry would then apply, and the applicant would be free from the screening process with Appointed Time Press, LLC.

The requirements for a volunteer are as follows:

A.) Individuals: We screen all volunteers in much the same way an employer would screen a prospective employee. For the safety and security of the public, and the integrity of this organization, all volunteers will agree to the following:

(1) Application
(2) Background check
(3) Drug Screen
(4) Submission of a minimum of three work-related and/or volunteer references
(5) Formal interview via Skype or in person (no phone interviews)

The screening process begins with filling out the volunteer requisition form on our website, in which basic questions will be answered. Once we receive the submission, we will respond with a list of appropriate opportunities, which may be accepted or declined. With a written acceptance we will proceed by sending an application via email, in which consent to a background check and drug screen is obtained in writing. We will also obtain consent for the release of information by any references. Once all paperwork is signed and we receive the completed application, we will begin the screening process and make prompt notifications. If there is a declination to move forward from the prospective volunteer we will promptly notify them that the screening process will cease, and no further contact will be made.

Additional information may be requested to process the application, depending upon the requisition submitted, by which we may make an inquiry.

We keep all applicant information on file for six months, at which time the application process would renew.

B.) Business or Ministry Entities: If a ministry or business entity would like to volunteer it’s missionaries, members, or employees an agreement or contract will be drawn with the company outlining the purpose and corresponding terms that are mutually agreed upon. Each individual must be in good standing with the said company for the previous year without any corrective action(s). All prospective volunteers must still complete our full application process for legal and liability purposes.

2.) Donations made by Appointed Time Press, LLC: We love to give. Donations made to any individual or entity on behalf of this organization are done prayerfully and discreetly under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We believe in stewarding our giving wisely. Our willingness to support any particular cause or purpose is not determined by the tax-exempt or ECFA status of an organization. Nor do we give with the intention of reciprocity. If monies are donated, we kindly ask that such gifts be kept private and remain undisclosed to the public. We may participate in fundraisers and other events so long as they are reputable and fulfill their cause. Monies and other resources or services given will always be designated. We hold the right to inquire and research the organizations to which we give with respect to their financial stewardship and the subsequent fulfillment of the intended purpose for which funds were specified or appropriated.

The following outlines the criteria and obligations that need to be met wherein donations are given:

1.) We look for ECFA accreditation, although it is not required. We believe the manner in which funds and monies are stewarded/handled is a primary indicator of the character, integrity, and trust of any organization, entity, or individual. We look for proper stewardship both legally and biblically before disbursing funds of any kind.

2.) We only give via trusted secured third-party portals. We give via PayPal or Stripe. We do not give cash. Nor do we give by sending checks in the mail, by which funds may be liquidated. Nor do we give via online portals that do not use a secured third-party portal such as PayPal or Stripe. Websites that receive monies directly, apart from these third-parties will not be used.

3.) We must obtain proper receipt of all funds.  Proof of receipt is absolutely necessary, being non-negotiable. We require receipts from three entities when giving wherein all records must match. Records must be obtained within 30 days either via postal mail, email, or both wherein the times, dates, and amounts of transactions are verified by the following three parties:

a.) Receipt from our banking institution

b.) Receipt from third-party portal (PayPal or Stripe)

c.) Receipt directly from the recipient (ministry, organization, or individual). Receipts from the recipient should have a proper official letterhead with official logo and appropriate contact information denoting the amount received, the date funds was processed by the bank, and confirmation of the appropriation for which the funds were originally disbursed. Dates and amounts should be verified and match with all other banking statements and/or records. Times for processing should be verified within a 24-48 period of time. Invoicing from PayPal or Stripe for any personal invoicing and record-keeping by the said individual or organization is acceptable and preferred.

4.) We look for transparency prior to disbursement of funds. The stewardship of monies must indicate proper biblical stewardship, accounting records, and transaction accountability to its donators by the following:

a.) Receipts for all gifts given. Whether monies or gifts in kind, we require a receipt for all gifts given.

b.) Monthly or annual financial statement. In an effort to maintain accountability and transparency, we may request a financial statement in how those funds were stewarded.

c.) Proper stewardship must be evidenced not only by record, but also by appropriation. We require proper stewardship of all designated funds both in record and appropriation. If there is a misappropriation of funds, we will not continue in relationship with that said individual or entity.

D.) NETWORKING: Networking is a strategic and powerful alliance. We love to network with authors, ministries, companies and organizations who share in our desire to see the advancement of God’s kingdom in this hour. The goals and purposes of networking are varied, and there is nothing more powerful than when individuals join forces for one common purpose or goal. Networking also plays a large role in performing the advocacy we provide to individuals and ministries, as well as facilitating the yachad (unity) that Christ prayed for among all believers.

A networking relationship may be established either by invitation or request.

Please contact us for more information on networking. We would be happy to assist you by sending a pdf copy of our entire policy.

E.) COMMENTS & DISCUSSION: Please see our “Clean and Kind” Comment Policy.

F.) FEES, INVOICING, & FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS: Appointed Time Press, LLC offer various products and services to the public which incur fees and/or require monies to be paid. We believe the stewardship of those monies is a sacred trust before God and man. We desire that all monies be handled and processed in the most secure and accurate manner possible. Below we outline how we conduct financial transactions, and how monies are received and processed.

(1.) The handling of your financial data: Unlike other companies and their websites, we have chosen NOT to directly handle any of the financial data or information belonging to our customers and clients, either in person or via our website portal. None of your financial information is stored upon our server or saved within our database or company files. All financial data is processed and handled via Stripe, a third-party company with whom we have contracted. Stripe is now a leader in the worldwide market for processing online financial transactions. Please visit Stripe to view their company policies.

(2.) Invoicing and the receipt of monies: Stripe also handles all our invoicing and processes our monies received. Whenever an invoice is served, we will send you a link via secured email for payment via Stripe. Stripe offers secured payment options via their online portal for auto-draft checking, debit, and credit card payments worldwide.

REMINDER: Contracts requiring payment will be invoiced at the time of signing. Payments must be received for the contract to become active. Contracts signed without payment will remain inactive, and will become null and void after 30 days if payment is not received.

(3.) Cash Payments: We do not receive cash payments in the event of a contract, as the monies cannot be traced. Cash payments are only received in person during events wherein the public makes purchases of our books, products, and materials at manned tables.

(4.) Payment Options: The stipulations on contract fees will be outlined within the respective contract. Depending upon the contract agreement and the amount owed, we may offer payment options, and are happy to work with you in a manner that suits your budget.

(5.) Wired Monies: We do not accept or send wired monies due to cost and security risks.

(6.) Return & Refund Policy: All sales are final for products purchased directly, irrespective of the type of payment rendered or the means by which it was received. The refund policy on contracts may differ depending on the type of service performed, and will always be stipulated within the respective contract prior to signing. If an item is defective, please return it with your receipt and we will happily replace it free of charge, no questions asked.

(7.) Exchanges: We are happy to explore the possibility of an exchange when the product is in “new” or “unused” condition, and stock is available. Goods or products exchanged must be of equal or greater value. Options for exchanges “at will” (due to a change of heart or mind) are conditional and may be explored, but are not promised, as inventory may not be readily available or on hand. All exchanges require a receipt.

(8.) Receipts: We will always make sure to give you a receipt for your goods and/or services, regardless of the payment rendered or the means by which it is received by us. Receipts are required for all exchanges. Receipts for cash payment will be written by hand with a signature. Receipts made online will be issued via Stripe. We encourage you to keep all receipts for your records.

G.) SOCIAL MEDIA: Neither Erin nor Appointed Time Press holds, owns, or uses social media accounts.

1.) Professional Platforms:

a.) Vimeo – We use Vimeo for crafting professional videos hosted on our website. Some are public; others are private.

     b.) Amazon — Erin holds a professional author platform where readership followers can receive updates on new releases and blog publications.

     c.) Feedburner — Google’s Feedburner is connected to our blog. It offers an email subscription service for those who want to receive the latest blog posts from The Wordsmith Blog.

2.) Blacklisted Social Media Companies/Providers: We do not endorse, approve, use, or associate with Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for security, privacy, and discriminatory purposes.

3.) Correspondence and Interactions: All correspondence must be initiated via our website portal. We strictly forbid any social media correspondence.

4.) Sharing: Users may share our content freely with the social media network or app of their choice. However, we do not provide links on our site for security reasons. We rely upon the Holy Spirit to move within the hearts of individuals who want to share within their sphere upon the platform of their choice.

H.)  INDEMNIFICATION & DISCLAIMER: Appointed Time Press, LLC, its founder, associates, members, employees, supporters, affiliates, partners and subsidiaries are under no obligation to any individual or entity. Hereby let it be known and understood, that in accordance with its fundamental beliefs, core principles, financial capabilities, and terms and conditions, Appointed Time Press, LLC maintains the sole right and discretion to either accept or decline any particular request for services at will. In all such instances wherein a declination of requested services is necessary or upheld, Appointed Time Press, LCC and its founder, associates, members, employees, supporters, affiliates, partners and subsidiaries will be fully indemnified and free of any and all retaliation, retribution, or reparation.