Membership Services

Membership Reinstatement

Thinking about coming back? Reinstating your membership is simple.

Great news-reinstating your membership is straightforward, and we'd be glad to welcome you home.
(Grand Lodge Statutes, Section 14.180)

Reinstating in Your Original Lodge

  1. Reinstatement Application
    Fill out the Application for Reinstatement from the link below and submit it to the Lodge Secretary of your former Lodge along with the required fees (ask about these ahead of time).
  2. Investigation and Interview Committee Review
    Your application will be referred to the Investigation and Interview Committee for review, and the Fraternal Committee will contact you to schedule an interview.
  3. Lodge Vote
    Following the interview, the Fraternal Committee will present its recommendation at a regular Lodge meeting for a vote by the Members.
  4. Final Steps
    Once approved, the Lodge Secretary will notify you. You’ll pay a prorated portion of the annual Lodge dues and receive your membership card.

Reinstating in a Different Lodge

If you wish to reinstate in a Lodge other than the one where you were originally initiated:

  1. Confirm Eligibility
    You must reside within the jurisdiction of the Lodge you wish to join.
  2. Obtain a Certificate of Release
    Request a Certificate of Release from your former Lodge.
    • Submit a $20 check payable to your former Lodge.
    • Ask the Lodge Secretary to issue and forward the Certificate of Release.
  3. Apply to the New Lodge
    Present the Certificate of Release to the Secretary of the Lodge where you wish to reinstate. From there, you'll follow the same reinstatement steps outlined above.
  4. Proof of Prior Membership
    If a Lodge does not already have record of your previous membership, you'll need to provide proof. Acceptable documentation includes:
    • An old Elks membership card
    • A canceled check showing payment of dues
    • A notarized affidavit signed by two Elks Members attesting to your prior membership
    If Proof Is Not Available
    If you are unable to provide proof of prior membership, you will need to apply for membership as a new member.
Reinstatement Application

Once an Elk, always an Elk.