A bipartisan pair of senators recently re-introduced the Clergy Act, a bill supported by ECFA that would aid pastors who mistakenly opted out of Social Security—a generally irrevocable choice. Sens. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) have again partnered to propose this legislation in hopes that it will allow such faith leaders a fair opportunity to “to better their financial futures” after rejoining the system.
“I am grateful to Senator Britt and Senator Hassan for reintroducing the Clergy Act,” said ECFA President and CEO Michael Martin. “Early in their ministries, some pastors opt out of Social Security and then have no opportunity to fix that choice once they realize their mistake. This bill opens a very reasonable window to help and would be a breath of fresh air for them.”
The Clergy Act would allow a temporary window for pastors to revoke their exemption and re-enter the Social Security system beginning in 2028. It also includes a requirement for the IRS to craft a plan delineating how it will notify clergy members of their eligibility for ...
