A Second Chance for Pastors: The Clergy Act and Why It Matters
Early in their ministry, many pastors made a life-altering financial decision—to opt out of Social Security. At the time, it may have seemed like a practical choice. Perhaps they believed they would save enough through personal investments or denominational retirement plans. Maybe they were advised that opting out was the best move for their financial future.
But decades later, many pastors are realizing the consequences. Without Social Security, they have no guaranteed source of retirement income, no access to Medicare through their work history, and no safety net for their later years.
For some, this has led to a painful reality—staying in ministry longer than they feel called to, simply because they cannot afford to retire.
Now, the Clergy Act has been introduced in Congress to change that. If passed, this bill would give pastors who previously opted out of Social Security a one-time opportunity to opt back in. This could be life-changing for thousands of pastors and strengthen the church as a whole by allowing for healthier leadership transitions.
Why This Matters
Ministers who opted out of Social Security cannot receive Social Security or Medicare benefits based on their ministerial income. This decision is permanent under current law, leaving many pastors financially vulnerable in retirement.
Historically, Congress has recognized this issue and opened brief re-enrollment windows in 1977, 1986, and 1999. But for the past 25 years, there has been no way for pastors to reverse their decision. Many who opted out decades ago now regret it but have no legal path to re-enter the system.
The Clergy Act would change that.
How the Clergy Act Would Work
If passed, this legislation would:
Allow pastors who previously opted out of Social Security a limited-time opportunity to opt back in
Require those who opt back in to contribute for 40 quarters (10 years) before they can receive benefits
Offer a fair and reasonable solution to clergy who now recognize the risks of not having Social Security
This is not a mandate. No pastor would be forced to opt in. But for those who now see the financial strain of being outside the system, it provides a way forward.
The Impact on Pastors and the Church
This bill would have far-reaching benefits—not just for individual pastors but for churches across the country.
1. Preventing Financial Hardship for Retired Pastors
Many pastors reach retirement age with little or no savings. Without Social Security, they are left completely dependenton personal investments, church pensions, or the goodwill of others.
This bill would allow them to build Social Security benefits over the next decade, offering them a small but stable monthly income in retirement.
2. Encouraging Healthy Ministry Transitions
Some pastors remain in their roles far beyond their best years, not because they still feel called to lead but because they cannot afford to step away.
This creates real challenges for churches that need new leadership but feel stuck because of financial concerns.
By allowing pastors to secure at least a modest Social Security benefit, this bill could help ease transitions and ensure churches continue to thrive with fresh leadership.
3. Strengthening the Future of the Church
When pastors cannot retire, churches often face difficult transitions that can lead to division or decline. By ensuring that more pastors have a stable financial future, churches can make healthy leadership changes when the time is right.
What Pastors Can Do Now
The Clergy Act is not yet law, and its passage depends on support from pastors and church leaders speaking up.
If you believe this legislation is important, take action today. Contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives and encourage them to support the Clergy Act. Lawmakers listen when they hear from their constituents—especially when pastors and faith leaders make their voices heard.
➡️ Find your congressman here: House of Representatives Contact Page
If you opted out of Social Security in the past and are looking for guidance, I have written in more detail about your options here:
➡️ You Opted Out of Social Security, Now What?
Final Thoughts
The Clergy Act is about more than just numbers—it is about dignity in retirement, healthy leadership transitions, and the future strength of the church.
For pastors who opted out years ago, this bill represents a second chance. A chance to build financial security, care for their families, and transition out of ministry when the time is right.
This is a rare opportunity. Now is the time for pastors to advocate for change and ensure that they, and those who come after them, have the retirement security they need.
