The UUA seeks to accompany congregations through their discernment on whether to dissolve. Should they choose to do so, in keeping with our long-standing policy, the UUA should receive congregational assets upon the completion of a dissolution (per the Association’s rules and bylaws, and the policy below). This is a standard clause in congregational bylaws which is required for admission for new member congregations, and is based on a precedent that predates the UUA involving Unitarian conferences and Universalist conventions.

Congregations should reach out to the UUA early and consistently in the process of discernment around mergers and dissolutions.

First, reach out to your UUA Congregational Life field staff.

Connect with Your UUA Regional Staff

Your regional staff is available for questions, resources, or if you just need a thought partner to help your congregation. Please call us when you are facing a transition, seeing a conflict, or celebrating an achievement! We are your primary contacts with the UUA!

Connect with Your UUA Regional Staff

Paperwork such as your dissolution plan and the minutes from the meeting where you vote to dissolve can be sent to:

Congregations are encouraged to consult a local attorney about what is required for corporate filings in their state or area.

Since congregations are usually incorporated in their state or territory, state regulators who are responsible for corporations and charities have a role in reviewing the plan for mergers or dissolutions and ultimately must legally approve them. Regulators generally seek to ensure that assets are being used in ways that are consistent with the original donor intent, protecting those donations since they were made tax-free.

Read the UUA Policy on Mergers and Dissolutions (PDF) for full details.