Compensation Planning Resources for Your Church

Use these resources to create a solid compensation plan for ministers and staff and to develop a more comprehensive financial plan for the benefit of your ministry.

Compensation Planning Guide

Review and print the Compensation Planning Guide workbook to develop a solid budgeting plan for the benefit of your church and staff.

You can also view/print individual sections and worksheets taken from the workbook:

• Step 1: Determine the compensation needs of ministers and staff
• Step 2: Establish written policies and procedures
• Step 3: Provide for ministry-related expenses
• Step 4: Provide employee benefits
• Step 5: Determine personal income
• Step 6: Complete a compensation planning summary

Compensation planning resources

• Watch this short video about how to help break the cycle of below-market pay for ministers.
• View the 2024 SBC Church Compensation Survey results to help determine appropriate salary and benefits for your staff.
• Review A Shift Toward Total Compensation: A Pastor's Primer for an in-depth look at the most important components of a ministerial compensation package.
• Learn more about why we recommend the Salary & Benefits Approach versus a Package Approach for ministers.

Additional ministry resources

• Explore the Ministerial Resources Center and find answers to common financial, benefit and tax-related questions and issues for ministers.
• Help your employees invest for retirement with GuideStone's Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans.
• Use GuideStone's Ministers Tax Guide and Ministerial Tax Issues booklets to make sure your ministers are up to date with the latest IRS benefits and requirements.
• Make sure your church is following important federal reporting requirements by using our simple, step-by-step guide.
• See if GuideStone can help you save money on medical, dental and other insurance coverage.
• Learn how you can protect your church property, as well as your ministry, with our Property and Casualty Program.

Questions? Please contact us at your convenience.