Issue 61 of Administration Matters
Inspire, thank and educate with Stories of Faith in Action
The newest edition of Stories of Faith in Action is out — and it’s packed with vibrant photos and stories to encourage giving! Mailed to ELCA congregations, synods and leaders in early September, this annual publication highlights the impact of Mission Support and the ministries it funds.
Visit ELCA.org/SOFIA now to:
- Order free print copies (all you cover is shipping).
- Download an electronic copy.
- View video stories, bulletin inserts and other resources.
How to complete a Pastor’s W-2 IRS Form
Year-end is quickly approaching and with it, the task of tax reporting to the IRS. Different rules apply when dealing with clergy taxes and withholdings. The sample W-2 provided will assist congregations in completing W-2 forms for clergy. >More
Help pastors tap the clergy housing allowance
The clergy housing allowance allows pastors to exclude a portion of their compensation from federal gross income if it can be justified to the IRS as spent on housing expenses. If congregations don’t proactively designate a portion of their pastor’s compensation as a housing allowance, your pastor loses an important tax benefit. Sign-in at Portico EmployerLink required. >More
Don’t be left in the cold — inspect your heating boiler
One of the biggest risks with boiler heating systems is that a problem will cause the internal pressure in the system to escalate to a point where it causes an explosion. This not only results in major physical damage to the facility but can also be life-threatening if your members or employees are in the building. The risk of this occurring can be greatly diminished with proper maintenance. > More
New video: Managing ELCA Benefits 101
A new 22-minute video by Portico Benefit Services, offered on EmployerLink, covers the basics of providing ELCA benefits — key terms, answers to common questions, and action steps to take each year. It’s a great introduction for new treasurers, office managers, plan administrators and human resource directors, and a refresher for seasoned benefit providers. >Watch
Winter checklist
Whether your climate is snowy or mild, it’s important to protect your church property during the coldest months of the year. >More
