H.R. 227Passed one chamberFamily & community
Clergy who left Social Security could get a one-time chance to rejoin
Data as of July 11, 2026
HR 227 would open a one-time window for exempt clergy to rejoin Social Security, with a filing deadline tied to their 2029 tax return.45-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
HR 227 would create a one-time window allowing clergy who previously opted out of Social Security to rejoin the system. To do so, they would need to file paperwork with the IRS by a deadline tied to their 2029 tax return. If they opt back in, they would pay Social Security taxes going forward and could eventually collect retirement benefits.
Who does it affect?
The bill applies to ordained ministers, licensed clergy, members of religious orders, and Christian Science practitioners who previously chose to be exempt from Social Security. It does not change rules for any other workers or the general public.
Why does it matter?
Under current law, clergy who opted out have no legal path to reverse that decision. If this bill passes, rejoining would also be permanent — those who opt back in could not apply for the exemption again later.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee
- House vote
- Senate — You are here
- President's desk
Right now: it passed the House and now goes to the Senate. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
Clergy Act
- Introduced:
- January 7, 2025
- Latest action:
- April 28, 2026
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.