As a minister, you have a unique job and calling on your life. Your tax situation is also unique, and understanding how to navigate your tax status as a minister sets you on the right course to making informed financial decisions.

Unlike most other professions, Ministers for Tax Purposes have a dual tax status. This means for income tax purposes, the IRS classifies most ministers working for a church as employees and they should receive a W-2 from their employer annually.

A church that takes the time to properly structure a minister’s compensation and benefits is practicing good stewardship which can make a huge difference in the current financial life — and financial future — of a pastor.

Social Security is the bedrock and foundation of a solid financial plan for your retirement. Without this extremely important benefit, you will need to contribute more to your retirement plan and purchase adequate levels of disability and life insurance to provide for benefits you and your family will forfeit.

When pastors answer the call to ministry, it’s usually not with the expectation of major financial gain. But that doesn’t mean they should be expected to live on a wage that doesn’t meet their needs. Unfortunately, pastor pay has remained almost completely flat in recent years, while at the same time, inflation has continued to climb.

Insurance may not be the most exciting line item on a ministry budget, but it can protect your church from catastrophic financial losses and help sustain the long-term well-being of your ministry. Church buildings can experience severe weather damage, and employees may receive life-altering diagnoses. Are you prepared if it happens to you?