DALLAS—GuideStone Financial Resources and the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, Monday, April 27, welcomed passage of the Clergy Act by the U.S. House of Representatives.
The Clergy Act is a bipartisan measure that would provide a temporary, voluntary opportunity for ministers who previously opted out of Social Security to opt back in.
After the House passed the Clergy Act 350-5, the legislation now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration.
“This is encouraging news for ministers and their families who have long lived with the unintended consequences of a position taken early in their calling, often without fully recognizing the costs,” Hance Dilbeck, president of GuideStone, said.
“The Clergy Act offers a carefully structured, limited pathway for ministers to reassess that decision and prayerfully determine what is best for their personal and family circumstances.”
The Clergy Act would create a two-year window beginning in 2029 that would allow eligible ministers who have opted out of Social Security to revoke their exemption and begin contributing. Ministers must still meet the standard 10-year contribution requirement to earn full retired-worker benefits, receiving benefits proportional to their contributions.
The bill would require both the Internal Revenue Service and Social Security Administration to submit a plan to Congress outlining their strategy to inform ministers of their eligibility to re-enroll.
ERLC and GuideStone follow developments
Both the ERLC and GuideStone have closely followed the development of the Clergy Act and have consistently supported the legislation as a thoughtful, minister‑focused solution that respects individual choice while strengthening long‑term financial security options for those who serve.
GuideStone has worked alongside a coalition of large and historic church benefits boards representing more than one million ministers nationwide to support the legislation.
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A similar opt-in period was last offered more than 25 years ago.
Dilbeck and ERLC Interim President Gary Hollingsworth recognized the leadership behind the bill’s advancement.
“We are grateful for Rep. Vince Fong (Calif.‑20) and his perseverance in advancing this legislation,” Dilbeck said. “His efforts reflect a clear understanding of both the unique vocational realities of ministers and the importance of providing timely, responsible options for those affected.”
Ministry brings financial challenges
Hollingsworth described ministry as an “immense privilege,” while also acknowledging the financial challenges it can bring.
“The Clergy Act is a real opportunity to ensure pastors can prepare well as they approach retirement,” Hollingsworth said. “The ERLC is thrilled the Clergy Act has passed the House and is grateful to Rep. Vince Fong for his work to remedy this issue. We now encourage the Senate to swiftly pass this bill and send it to the White House.”
Dilbeck echoed those sentiments.
“We are praying for a good outcome as the Clergy Act continues through the legislative process,” Dilbeck said. “Our hope is that this measure will soon become law and provide clarity and flexibility for ministers seeking to make well‑informed decisions about their financial futures.”
If enacted, GuideStone will launch a robust communication and education effort to help ministers understand how the legislation works, what opting back into Social Security may mean for them, and how to evaluate the decision in light of their broader retirement, disability, and survivor‑care strategies.
Ministers and church leaders can learn more about the Clergy Act and access updated information at GuideStone.org/clergyact.
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