Clergy Taxes: Tax Advantages for Ministers
Working as a minister has many benefits, including reaching out to and ministering to a wide array of people who are seeking help and guidance. In addition to helping others, members of the clergy are also eligible for a number of tax benefits as well. These benefits were created for members of the clergy in order to ensure that they were being reimbursed adequately for the important work that they do. Therefore it’s important that pastors are aware of the tax advantages that they are eligible to receive.
Here are some of the tax advantages that can be applied to… Continue reading
Clergy Finances: Unemployment Benefits for Pastors
The nation’s unemployment rate is a hot topic. Regardless of what profession or industry one works in, there is always the chance for losing one’s job. This scenario is no different for church pastors. They may find themselves without a job due to the economy, changes within their church or for a variety of other reasons. The difference when it comes to clergy finances is that if pastors find themselves out of work they are rarely eligible for unemployment benefits.
Churches and other religious organizations are exempt from participating in a majority of state unemployment programs. Therefore, since they don’t… Continue reading
Figuring Individual and Minister Taxes: Church Donation Tax Laws
Tis the time of year for charitable contributions for individuals, clergymen and churches, but how are charitable donations supposed to be accounted for in regards to taxes? The IRS actually allows taxpayers to itemize their deductions to write off their donations to charitable organizations; however, the church or organization that is being donated to must meet IRS requirements.
In order to prevent people from taking advantage of this deduction they have created certain rules that govern the timing of donations, maximum allowable deductions and certain documentation is required. When preparing individual as well as minister taxes, it’s important… Continue reading
Clergy Tax Services: The In’s and Out’s of Medical Insurance for Pastors
Medical insurance is an important topic for everyone, this includes those in the ministry as well. It has been cited as a major factor in most family’s financial health and pastors and clergymen are no exception to this. When it comes to clergy finances, medical insurance plays a big role. Fortunately, for pastors there are a number of alternatives available that allow pastors and their families to have affordable and quality medical coverage.
Here are a few options when it comes to medical insurance for pastors.
Group Coverage
Group coverage plans are often available for multi-staff and denominational churches and… Continue reading
How to Make Sure Clergy Social Security Exemption is Approved
If they choose, clergymen are allowed social security exemption based on religious objections. However, in order for this to happen, they need to correctly fill out IRS Form 4361 in order to be exempt. It’s important that this form be filled out in an accurate and timely manner. Here are some tips on how to correctly fill out the form and reasons why it may be denied.
Unless they fill out a Form 4361 clergymen normally pay out social security taxes just like anybody else who is employed and earns taxable income. The IRS, however, allows church ministers to file… Continue reading
