Filling out AF Form 4356 is straightforward once you understand each section of the Chapel Tithes and Offering Fund (CTOF) Purchase Request. This guide walks Air Force chaplains, chapel staff, and Unit Fund Custodians through every field and explains how to submit the completed form for approval.
What Is AF Form 4356?
AF Form 4356 is the official U.S. Air Force form for requesting purchases funded by the Chapel Tithes and Offering Fund. The CTOF is a voluntary fund sustained by tithes and offerings donated by members of the Air Force congregation. All purchases from this fund must be formally requested and approved using this form to ensure proper financial accountability.
The form is required whenever a chaplain or chapel officer needs to spend CTOF money on goods or services. Common examples include purchasing musical instruments, hymnals, chapel supplies, and other items that support the spiritual welfare of Air Force personnel and their families.
Who Needs to Complete AF Form 4356?
The following Air Force personnel typically complete AF Form 4356:
- Installation Chaplains – Chaplains submit this form when requesting any purchase from the CTOF account.
- Unit Fund Custodians – The custodian responsible for the CTOF account verifies the request and tracks available funds.
- Chapel Officers – Officers who manage chapel programs may initiate a request for program-related supplies or services.
Both the requesting chaplain and an approving authority must sign the completed form before any purchase can be made.
How to Fill Out AF Form 4356 Step by Step
Follow these steps to complete AF Form 4356 accurately:
- Enter the installation name and unit. Identify the Air Force installation and the specific chapel or unit submitting the request.
- Describe the item or service. Provide a clear description of what is being purchased. Be specific so the approving authority understands the purpose.
- Enter the estimated cost. Record the expected total amount. If you have a vendor quote, attach it to the form for reference.
- Identify the CTOF account number. Write the applicable fund account number from which the purchase will be deducted.
- State the purpose of the purchase. Briefly explain how this item or service supports the Air Force chapel program or congregation welfare.
- Obtain the requesting chaplain’s signature. The chaplain making the request signs and dates the form in the designated block.
- Obtain the approving authority’s signature. The Wing Chaplain or designated approving official reviews and approves the request.
- Submit the completed form. Deliver AF Form 4356 to the appropriate CTOF accountable official or resource management office for processing.
How to Submit the Completed Form
Once all required signatures are in place, submit the original AF Form 4356 to your installation’s resource management office or the designated CTOF accountable officer. Retain a copy for the chapel’s financial records. If the purchase involves a vendor payment, attach any relevant quotes, invoices, or receipts to support the request.
Many Air Force installations process CTOF requests through their Wing Chaplain’s office before routing to resource management. Check with your local chapel administrator for the specific submission process at your installation.
Common Errors to Avoid on AF Form 4356
- Missing signatures – Both the requesting chaplain and the approving authority must sign. A single signature is not sufficient for processing.
- Vague item descriptions – Write a specific description of the item or service. Generic entries such as "supplies" may be returned for clarification.
- Incorrect account number – Always verify the CTOF account number with the Unit Fund Custodian before submitting.
- No supporting documentation – Attach vendor quotes or estimates for purchases above your installation’s threshold to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions About AF Form 4356
Can I fill out AF Form 4356 online?
Yes. Use the online tool on this page to fill in all fields digitally on any device. Download or print the completed form and collect the required signatures before submitting through official Air Force channels.
Is AF Form 4356 still active?
AF Form 4356 remains in use by U.S. Air Force chapel programs. Verify you are using the most current version by checking the Air Force e-Publishing website or your installation’s forms management office before submitting.
What is the Chapel Tithes and Offering Fund?
The CTOF is a voluntary fund supported by donations from Air Force congregation members. It is administered by installation chaplains and used exclusively to support chapel programs, purchase supplies, and fund activities that benefit the spiritual welfare of Air Force personnel and their families.
Do I need special authorization to complete this form?
AF Form 4356 must be signed by the requesting chaplain and the approving authority, typically the Wing Chaplain. No external authorization is required beyond the chain of command within the chapel program.
Where can I find related Air Force forms?
Browse related forms including AF Form 1168, Air Force Form 77, and AF Form 1562 in the FormsPal library.