clergy payroll

Should I Opt Out of Social Security as a Pastor?

Should I Opt Out of Social Security as a Pastor?

At Wisdom, we often get asked if someone should opt out of Social Security. We never give guidance on “should,” since this is a very personal decision. But like many personal decisions, it is best made with all the facts and good counsel, which in addition to discussions with other pastors and mentors, we hope to contribute to.

Is Your Church Payroll Done Correctly?

Is Your Church Payroll Done Correctly?

During 2017 we became increasingly aware that a startling percentage of church payrolls are incorrectly prepared.  These are usually payrolls where the church innocently relies upon one of the major payroll companies, like ADP or Paychex, to do things correctly and “keep the church out of trouble”.

Pastor Appreciation Gifts

Pastor Appreciation Gifts

Churches seeking to truly bless their pastor(s) should remember that checks and gift cards given on Pastor Appreciation Sunday are taxable income to the recipient.  To truly bless its pastor, the church can (and should) “gross-up” the payment for taxes two ways.