Welcome to the Pastoral Finance Blog.
Here, you'll find practical financial insights tailored for pastors and ministry leaders. These articles are a free resource designed to help you navigate everything from tax planning to retirement, side hustles, and church financial management.
Looking for something specific? Use the search bar below to explore our library of content.
7 of the Biggest Financial Blind Spots for Pastors in Their 50s
Most pastors reach their 50s with decades of faithful ministry behind them but with growing uncertainty about their financial future. This post breaks down the seven biggest blind spots pastors overlook at this stage of life, including retirement gaps, Social Security strategy, housing allowance issues, Medicare timelines, and more. Understanding these now can change your entire next season.
Why Pastors Cannot Afford Not to Have Ongoing Financial Planning
Most pastors rely on a one-time financial plan without realizing it becomes outdated almost immediately. This post explains why ongoing financial planning matters and how it helps pastors gain clarity and confidence as their lives and ministries shift.
You’re Ready for What’s Next. But Is Your Church and Your Finances Ready Too?
You’ve spent your life preparing messages. But how much time have you spent preparing for your last one?
Every pastor faces transition eventually. Whether it’s retirement, rest, or a new calling, planning ahead—financially and spiritually—can protect your family, bless your church, and help you step confidently into what’s next.
The Year-End Financial Checklist Every Pastor Needs
Most pastors end the year exhausted but not necessarily ready. This simple checklist will help you review housing allowance, payroll, benefits, giving, and taxes so you can finish the year with clarity and start the next one with confidence.
Pastor are You Financially Healthy? A Simple Checkup for Pastors
Every pastor needs a financial checkup just like a physical one. These seven questions help you assess your financial health and build lasting stability in ministry and life.
5 Financial Myths Many Pastors Believe and Why They’re So Costly
Pastors are quick to spot bad theology, but many unknowingly live by financial myths that cost them dearly. These myths can undermine retirement security, family stability, and the ability to finish ministry well. Discover five of the most common financial myths pastors believe and learn practical, faith-driven wisdom to build a stronger financial foundation for life and ministry.
Why Waiting to Live Could Be the Worst Financial Plan
Many pastors live with intense financial discipline, pushing every joy into “someday.” Bills are paid, savings are growing, giving is steady but life feels like it is slipping by. True financial wisdom is not about choosing between today and tomorrow. It is about learning how to honor both.
The Retirement Mistake Most Pastors Don’t See Coming
Many pastors unknowingly sabotage their retirement by withdrawing money in the wrong order. Housing allowance, 403(b) distributions, Roth IRAs, and Social Security all interact in unique ways for clergy. Learn why a thoughtful withdrawal plan matters and how avoiding this common mistake can protect your future.
Your Church Isn’t Your Retirement Plan
Too many pastors are quietly banking on goodwill, parsonage access, or a future board’s generosity to carry them through retirement. But what happens when the leadership changes, the promises weren’t written down, and the church can’t afford to do what they hoped it could?
In this post, we confront the myth that “the church will take care of me,” and offer five practical, pastor-specific steps to start building a secure future now.
Read the Fine Print: What Pastors Need to Know Before Rolling Over Their 403(b)
Rolling over your church 403(b) could cost you tax benefits and more. Before you move your money, here’s what every pastor should know and ask.
Roth IRA vs. 403(b) for Ministers: Which Should You Prioritize?
Choosing between a Roth IRA and a 403(b) can be confusing for pastors. This guide breaks down what matters most like church match, tax treatment, and how to use strategies like the Backdoor Roth effectively.
A Second Chance for Pastors: The Clergy Act and Why It Matters
Many pastors opted out of Social Security, believing it was the right choice at the time. But years later, some find themselves financially vulnerable with no way to opt back in—until now. The Clergy Act, a new bill in Congress, could give pastors a one-time opportunity to re-enter Social Security. Learn how this legislation could impact pastors, the church, and why now is the time to take action.