S. 639In committeeFamily & community
Clergy would get one-time chance to rejoin Social Security
Data as of July 12, 2026
The Clergy Act creates a one-time window for clergy to revoke a past Social Security exemption and start paying in again.45-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
The bill lets ministers, religious order members, and Christian Science practitioners who previously took a religious exemption from Social Security taxes revoke that choice. They must apply by the tax filing deadline, including extensions, for their second tax year after 2027, and the reversal is permanent once made. Late applicants for a given year must also pay back taxes owed as if never exempt.
Who does it affect?
This affects clergy and religious workers who earlier opted out of Social Security and may now want retirement, disability, or survivor benefits. It does not change Social Security rules for the general public.
Why does it matter?
Once revoked, the exemption cannot be requested again, making the decision final and time-limited. The IRS and Social Security Administration must also develop a plan to notify eligible clergy about the option and how to apply.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- Senate committee — You are here
- Senate vote
- House
- President's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the President.
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Official title
Clergy Act
- Introduced:
- February 19, 2025
- Latest action:
- February 19, 2025
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.