Lawsuit Challenging Clergy Housing Allowance Dropped
In 2009, the atheist group ” Freedom from Religion Foundation” filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Sections 107 and 265(1)(6) of the federal tax code, which establishes the housing allowance for ministers. Their argument stated that the unique benefit set aside for “ministers of the gospel” is a violation of the separation of church…
IRS Adjusts 2011 Mileage Rates
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today (June 23, 2011) announced an increase in the optional standard mileage rates for the final six months of 2011. Taxpayers may use the optional standard rates to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business and other purposes. The rate will increase to 55.5 cents a…
Department of Justice Appeals “Multiple Home” Housing Allowance Ruling
On May 24, 2011, the United States Department of Justice appealed the tax court decision made in the Philip Driscoll housing allowance case. In December 2010, the United States Tax Court ruled that clergy could use the parsonage allowance exclusion for two homes as long as they are both used exclusively as personal residences. Related…
Do you need help with finishing extended income tax returns, preparing amended income tax returns, or tax audits?
Now that April 18 has passed, it’s time to focus on finishing extended income tax returns. Some of our readers have found errors in or are uncomfortable with tax returns that they prepared using tax software or were prepared by other tax return preparation companies. We can provide a second opinion. Others have received notices…
Five Tips for Clergy Paying Estimated Taxes
Estimated tax is a method used to pay tax on income that is not subject to withholding. Most clergy are exempt from tax withholdings and FICA. You must pay estimated taxes during the year based on your ministry income. These five tips from Clergy Financial Resources will provide you with a quick look at estimated…
