Year-End Payroll Checklist: Preparing Your Pastor’s W-2 the Right Way
Ministers’ W-2s follow special rules, from blank Social Security boxes to optional housing allowance reporting in Box 14. Here is a year-end checklist to help church treasurers get 2026 forms right before the February 1, 2027 deadline.
Accountable Reimbursement Plans: A Year-End Tune-Up for Ministers and Churches
Unreimbursed ministry expenses no longer reduce a pastor’s income tax, which makes a properly run accountable reimbursement plan more valuable than ever. Learn the three IRS requirements, the safe-harbor timelines and the 2026 mileage rate.
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.
Dual Tax Status: Why Ministers Are Both Employees and Self-Employed
Ministers are treated as employees for income tax but self-employed for Social Security. Here’s what dual tax status means, how SECA tax works in 2026, and how to avoid an April surprise.
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.
September on Kingdom Impact 5: Missionary Checks and a Surprise from the DOL
Two episodes dropped on Kingdom Impact 5 this month, and both tackle situations that quietly happen in almost every church without anyone stopping to ask “wait, is this a tax thing?” Spoiler: it usually is. Can Our Church Employees Volunteer at Our Church? Released September 22 | Listen here Picture a normal Saturday: a few…
What If You Can’t Afford to Pay Your Taxes?
What If You Can’t Afford to Pay Your Taxes? If you’re unable to pay your tax bill in full, the most important thing to know is this: you should still file your tax return on time. You can file your income tax return even if you don’t have the money to pay what’s owed. Once…
Don’t Forget: Estimated Tax Payments Are Due April 15
Don’t Forget: Estimated Tax Payments Are Due April 15 April 15 isn’t just the deadline for filing your tax return—it’s also an important date for estimated tax payments. The first estimated tax payment for the 2026 tax year is due on April 15, 2026, for individuals and most calendar‑year entities. If estimated taxes aren’t paid…
Protect Your Tax Identity: Apply for an IRS IP PIN
Protect Your Tax Identity: Apply for an IRS IP PIN One of the most effective ways to guard against tax‑related identity theft is by applying for an IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). An IP PIN is a six‑digit number known only to you and the IRS, and it helps prevent someone else…
Can Deacons qualify for a housing allowance?
Can Deacons qualify for a housing allowance? Deacons can qualify for a housing allowance, but only if they meet the IRS definition of a “minister” for tax purposes. The IRS does not base eligibility on job titles (pastor, priest, bishop, deacon, etc.). Instead, it looks at whether the individual is ordained, licensed, or commissioned and…