We recognize that some faith communities may struggle to fund their ministries due to a non-recurring financial crisis. Assessment relief will be considered in response to specific extraordinary and or unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of a congregation, resulting in a financial crisis that cannot be resolved in any other manner. A sharp, but temporary decline in aggregate church income, as determined by the committee on any reasonable basis, shall be considered an unforeseen circumstance.

• Who is eligible to apply for assessment relief?
  Parishes and missions that have conducted pledge drives, have developed plans for cost overruns or additional expenses, have used reserves reasonably, have taken cost-cutting measures, and whose financial challenges are not due primarily to declining membership and/or income.
• Does the relief need to be repaid?
  No. The relief approved by Executive Council is a forgiveness of the obligation to pay the designated assessment.
• Are we eligible for relief every year?
  Assessment relief is intended to be used for extraordinary, non-recurring circumstances. Relief cannot be granted for more than three consecutive years.
• Is the relief for the current year or future year(s)?
  Relief, if granted, is for the current year.
• What is the process?
  1. Complete the application below. Applications must be submitted in the calendar year in which relief is requested. The deadline is September 30th each year.  Save your entries as you go. You can close the program and return to the application, but you must do so within 30 days; otherwise, the information will is deleted, and you must start over. The application can be submitted only after all entries have been completed.
  2. Once submitted, the application is automatically sent to the Diocesan CFO.
  3. The CFO forwards the application to the Assessment Committee, which may contact the applicant for clarification and/or additional information.
  4. After the Assessment Committee review, a recommendation may be made to Executive Council to approve the relief.
  5. If granted, the applicant receives a reduction in their assessment, which appears as a credit on their statement.
  6. Those who are granted assessment relief are expected to report to Executive Council by June 30th of the following year.
• What is the deadline for the application?
  September 30th.
• Is an extension to apply available?
  No. In order for the Committee to review the applications and make recommendations to the Executive Council at the November meeting, the deadline is firm.
• Click here to apply: https://www.cognitoforms.com/DioceseOfCalifornia1/AssessmentRelief
• Questions? Email Michele  [email protected]

Author: Ellie Simpson