McCarthy explains proposed Social Security opt-in clause to local pastors

Clergy members need more choice and adaptability when it comes to planning for their retirement, including the ability to opt back into Social Security, said ­U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) during a Feb. 20 press conference.

During the event, the congressman met with local pastors regarding the bipartisan Clergy Act of 2020, H.R. 5904, which he sponsored on Feb. 13 with cosponsor U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) to allow a period in which members of the clergy may revoke their exemption from Social Security coverage, according to the text of the bill.

“The Clergy Act would accomplish two important things,” Rep. McCarthy said. “First, it would empower faith leaders to decide what is best for their retirement and provide them a second chance to re-enroll into Social Security.”

“Second, the Clergy Act would allow clergy members who do choose to opt-in to Social Security access to Social Security disability benefits should they ever need them in the future,” he added.

Under current law, clergy members are able to obtain an exemption from paying into Social Security that disqualifies them from receiving any future benefits, according to information provided by Rep. McCarthy’s office.

If enacted, the bill would authorize that any exemption that has been received for a duly ordained, commissioned or licensed minister of a church, a member of a religious order, or a Christian Science practitioner may be revoked by filing an application with the Internal Revenue Service, according to the bill’s text.

“This legislation is long overdue,” Rep. McCarthy said. “Faith leaders deserve more freedom and flexibility as they plan for retirement.”

H.R. 5904 has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee.