The IRS guidelines on designating a housing allowance for clergy are detailed and specific. Here is a comprehensive overview: Designation of Housing Allowance Advance Designation Requirement: The housing allowance must be officially designated in advance of payment by the employing church or other qualified organization....
A common method for determining the fair rental value of clergy housing is using a fixed percentage, like 12%-15% of the current home value. However, this method may be inaccurate. The IRS and tax courts typically recommend using methods such as the comparable fair rental...
When your board declares your annual clergy housing allowance, they must declare a specific dollar amount or percent as the housing allowance. The designation must be made in advance of the payment. A general declaration that you have a housing allowance without naming a specific...
Question: Our minister would like to increase his housing allowance due to higher expenses than expected. Can our board amend it? Answer: Yes, your church can amend the housing allowance, but you must pay attention to the following rules: Proper authorization: The amended housing allowance...
Question: Can all church employees qualify for housing allowance? Answer: No. Section 107 of the Internal Revenue Code allows only a “minister of the gospel” to have a housing allowance. Thus, only taxpayers who are serving as clergy under IRS rules for tax purposes are eligible for...
As Church administrators begin the meticulous process of budget planning, the task of managing payroll, human capital, and timekeeping can seem overwhelming. At Payroll Partners, we understand the unique challenges faced by Church administrators and are dedicated to providing solutions that allow you to focus...
The clergy housing allowance is a significant financial benefit available to ordained ministers, pastors, and religious leaders in the United States. This unique tax provision allows eligible clergy members to exclude a portion of their compensation from federal income taxation, resulting in potential savings for...
There are no standard amounts for housing allowance as a whole. The IRS guidelines say to use the fair market rental value of your housing and housing expenses (i.e., gas, electric, cable, etc.). There are housing allowance worksheets to help pastors figure out the...
While Internal Revenue Code is definitely not the most exciting topic, Section 107 is good to know as it does offer some benefit to ministers. This is where the minister’s housing allowance is addressed. Here it is: “In the case of a minister of the gospel,...
Question: Can all church employees qualify for housing allowance? Answer: No. Section 107 of the Internal Revenue Code allows only a “minister of the gospel” to have a housing allowance. Thus, only taxpayers who are serving as clergy under IRS rules for tax purposes are eligible for...