How to form a Local Affiliate

For pre-existing organizations, here are the affiliation requirements:

1. The mission of the local affiliate must be compatible with the mission of the CBA, as  demonstrated by its organizing documents;

2. At least six individual members of the local affiliate must be members of the CBA; these individuals can join CBA online, or join as part of the local affiliate application process with the forms included in this packet;

3. The local affiliate must submit to CBA written authorization from its Bishop to conduct its activities in the Diocese, and must be the only CBA affiliate within its diocese.

4. The local affiliate must submit the Local Affiliate Charter Agreement for Independent Affiliates (included in this packet);

5. The local affiliate must submit the Local Affiliate Application with its first annual dues of $600. This $600 includes the annual dues for six individual CBA members.  

6. Annually, the local affiliate must renew its dues and affirm that it is still in good standing with its bishop.

For newly organized affiliates, here are the affiliation requirements:

1. The new affiliate must adopt a mission compatible with the mission of the CBA;

2. At least six individuals, each of whom is a Catholic Attorney, Canon Lawyer, or Catholic Lawmaker, shall organize the new affiliate and join the CBA. These individuals can join CBA online, or join as part of the local affiliate application process with the forms included in this packet;

3. The local affiliate must submit to CBA written authorization from its Bishop to conduct its activities in the Diocese, and must be the only CBA affiliate within its diocese.

4. The local affiliate must establish a governing board, create and provide organizing documents, obtain an Employer Identification Number, draft a summary of anticipated activities, and provide a balance sheet and a three year financial projection. (CBA can provide templates and assist). New organizations can secure their federal tax exemption by requesting to be included as part of CBA’s “group” exemption with the IRS.

5. The local affiliate must submit the Local Affiliate Charter Agreement for Subordinate Affiliates (included in this packet);

6. The local affiliate must submit the Local Affiliate Application with its first annual dues of $600. This $600 includes the annual dues for six individual CBA members.

7. Annually, the local affiliate must renew its dues, affirm that it is still in good standing with its bishop, and, if participating in the CBA's group exemption, provide a balance sheet, income & expense statement, and brief summary of activities to the CBA (CBA can provide templates and assist).