08/27/2026
Did most pastors know they're taxed two different ways at once?
At Salt of the Earth CPA, helping ministers isn't a side service. It's one of our core specialties, because clergy tax rules are some of the most misunderstood in the tax code.
A few things every pastor should know:
- Ministers have dual tax status: employees for income tax, but self-employed for Social Security and Medicare, so most pay SECA instead of standard F**A
- A properly designated housing allowance can be excluded from income tax, but it must be approved in writing by the church board first
- Since churches usually don't withhold self-employment tax, ministers are typically responsible for their own quarterly estimated payments
- We also help churches set up compensation and housing allowances correctly from the start
Whether you're a pastor, missionary, church staff member, or run a religious nonprofit, we speak your language and help you stay compliant while keeping more of what you earn.
Ready to get your clergy taxes handled right? Book a call with our team today on our website: httple://saltoftheearthcpa.com