Join: FAQ's

Prospective Member Frequently Asked Questions

  • 1. What is the Knights of Columbus?

    The Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest Catholic fraternal benefit society, with more than 1.9 million members in over a dozen countries. Founded by Father Michael J. McGivney to help provide financial aid to Catholic families, the Knights of Columbus is now one of the largest life insurers in North America. The Knights of Columbus also helps support a multitude of charitable causes; in the last decade, the Order has given more than $1.55 billion to charity.

  • 2. How can I join the Knights of Columbus?

    Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to males 18 years of age or older who are practical (that is, practicing) Catholics. If you are interested in joining the Knights of Columbus, please complete our online form and a Knight in your area will contact you.

  • 3. I don't have time to join another organization; why should I join the Knights of Columbus?

    As a Knight you can choose the projects with which you wish to be involved in within your own community. What is more, the Order is dedicated to family life and the many benefits it offers. From insurance to scholarships to service and social activities and programs, all are open to the whole family.

  • 4. What are the requirements?

    Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to men 18 years of age or older who are practical (that is, practicing) Catholics in union with the Holy See.

  • 5. What is a practical Catholic?

    A practical Catholic accepts the teaching authority of the Catholic Church on matters of faith and morals, aspires to live in accord with the precepts of the Catholic Church, and is in good standing in the Catholic Church.

  • 6. Do I have to purchase Insurance to become a member?

    No; unlike many fraternal organizations one does not become a member by purchasing insurance. In the Knights of Columbus a man has to be a member before he may avail himself of the insurance benefit. Purchasing insurance is optional, however; the life insurance and long-term care insurance products offered by the Order are not only competitively priced, they are among the most solid and highly rated products available anywhere. Standard & Poor's and A.M. Best, the leading independent agencies that rate insurance companies, give K of C insurance their highest ratings.

  • 7. What is eMembership?

    The Knights of Columbus is piloting a special, online membership experience for eligible Catholic men in Alberta, Maryland and New Mexico. To learn more about the eMembership initiative, click here.