The 2027 Tax Numbers Are In: What Ministers Should Know
The IRS has released its inflation adjustments for 2027, including a higher standard deduction and new tax brackets. Here is what the changes mean for pastors, and why self-employment tax still needs its own plan.
Itemize or Take the Standard Deduction? A 2026 Guide for Ministers Who Own Their Homes
New rules for 2026, including a higher state and local tax cap and changes to charitable deductions, make this a good year for homeowner ministers to compare itemizing with the standard deduction before December 31.
Year-End 403(b) Planning for Ministers: Making the Most of 2026
Retirement contributions offer ministers a rare double benefit: they reduce income tax and, for church contributions, are not subject to self-employment tax. Here is what to review before December 31 to make the most of your 2026 403(b) limits.
Retired Ministers and the Housing Allowance: Keeping a Valuable Benefit in Retirement
Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of the minister’s housing allowance. Here’s how retired pastors can exclude church retirement income from tax as housing, the limits that apply, and the mistakes to avoid.
The Minister’s Housing Allowance: What Every Pastor Should Confirm Before 2026 Ends
The housing allowance is still one of the most valuable tax benefits available to ministers. Here’s how the lesser-of rule works, what expenses count, and the three steps to take before December 31.
2026 Tax Law Changes Every Minister Should Know
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act brought new deductions, a higher standard deduction, and changes to charitable giving and 1099 reporting. Here’s what matters for ministers and churches in 2026.
Were you age 73 or older during 2025?
Were you age 73 or older during 2025? Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) apply to traditional IRAs and most employer‑sponsored retirement plans once a participant reaches age 73. In the first year RMDs are required, the distribution does not need to be taken by December 31. Instead, the initial RMD must be withdrawn no later than…
Matching Contributions: The 403(b)(9) Advantage
The Match Game for 403(b)(9) Retirement Plans The Match Game show started on December 31, 1962. The premise of the show was simple. The contestant with the most matching answers with the celebrity panelists won the game and moved on to the “big money round”. Contestant or celebrity, there is another match game that clergy…
Should I Be Afraid to File a Tax Extension
If the looming April 15 tax deadline has you stressed, take a deep breath—you have time and options. Every year, many clergy rush to file by the deadline, often missing key deductions, making costly errors, or settling for a hurried filing experience. However, here’s the truth: filing a tax extension can be a strategic advantage,…
How to define honoraria income
Honoraria income for clergy refers to payments received for services where a set fee is not legally or traditionally required. These services often include weddings, funerals, baptisms, and guest speaking engagements. Here are some key points to understand: Definition and Nature Honorarium: A voluntary payment given for services that custom or propriety forbids a price…