Part of a 13-volume series designed to help Lutheran communities assess the feasibility of starting a Lutheran elementary school and to assist ongoing schools in current operation, this handbook focuses on financial planning and accounting systems for Lutheran schools and congregations. A chart of accounts is presented as the foundation for building the accounting system. Financial statements and other reports are based on the chart of accounts and a bookkeeping system that includes fund accounts. Budget formats, procedures, and time lines are described as being built around the financial statements and based on the concept of an integrated system. Finally, five-year financial projections are developed that have as their foundation the budgets, financial reports, and chart of accounts. Sample financial statements and charts of accounts for both church and school are included. (Author/JM)