ELCA Resource Center

Welcome to the downloadable resources web page of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

If you're interested in ordering resources, we invite you to explore our ELCA eStore Catalog.

TIP: Start with the first filter "Topics" to sort the resources to find what you need.

Legal

Welcome to the Legal resource page. This resource page provides you a visual way to explore and download the many types of resources we have available.

Legal Disclaimer
Information on this website does not constitute legal advice to anyone. In addition, the use of this website, and the sending or receipt of information through elca.org does not create attorney-client relationship of any sort. Visitors to elca.org should be aware that communication in this manner may not be considered as privileged or confidential. Individuals requiring legal assistance should engage a qualified attorney, licensed to practice law in the particular state or jurisdiction where the legal issues have arisen. Members of the ELCA, pastors, congregations, synods, and others affiliated with this church should always consult their own attorneys, accountants, or similar professionals whenever legal issues or problems arise. Neither the Churchwide organization nor the general counsel is responsible for any loss, injury, liability, or damage related to your use of this document, whether from errors or omissions in the content of this document or any linked sites, from the site being down, or from any other use.

Myths and Facts About Congregational Governance
Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Reporting Exemption
Guidance for Recording and Live Streaming
Boy Scouts of America Bankruptcy Plan Voting Information
Boy Scouts of America Info for Congregations
Boy Scouts of America Bankruptcy Informational Document
Employment Identification Number and Tax Identification Number
Group Exemption Authorization Form for CUDs and SAWCs
Group Exemption Authorization Form for Congregations
Group Exemption Authorization Form for Synod Related Organizations
Group Exemption Authorization Form for Affiliated Organizations
Group Exemption Authorization Form for Congregation Related Organizations
Group Exemption Authorization Form for Parishes
Parking Tax Explanation
Legal Checklist for Congregations
Amending Constitutions
Clergy Tax Issues
Employment Posters on Rights and Obligations
Security Procedures in the Workplace
Group Ruling
Information on Hiring Employees
Screening and hiring employees
Employment Laws Affecting Congregations
Preventing Workplace Discrimination
Responding to Allegations of Clergy Misconduct
Create Sexual Misconduct Prevention Policy
Zoning Land Use
Reporting Abuse Clergy Requirements
File IRS 990
Other Taxes
Written Use Agreement
Tax Info for Donors
Cellular Tower Lease
Renting Building
Financial Best Practices for Congregations
Accepting Restricted Gifts
Financial Records Management
Good Samaritan Fund and Helping Hands Fund
Legal Separate Incorporation
Issues Related to Cellular Towers
Sexual Misconduct Prevention Policies
Clergy Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Resources
Responding to Sexual Abuse in the Church
Preventing Sexual Misconduct in Congregations
Responding to Sexual Abuse in the Church
Congregations Healing After Clergy Sexual Abuse
Preventing Clergy Sexual Abuse Not in My Pew Article
Handling Terminations
Independent Contractor vs Employee
Taxation on Rental Property