Church Law & Tax Report
November/December 2017
Feature Article

Retirement Planning for Pastors 
Discerning the financial and tax benefits—and drawbacks—of numerous retirement plans.
Articles

Taking the Right Steps to Establish a Retirement Plan 
Early planning can avoid IRS trouble—and provide well when retirement comes.
A Caution for Church Volunteers Deducting Expenses 
Recent Tax Court ruling addresses common expenses and charitable contributions.
Recent Developments
Issues that affect ministers and churches, with Richard R. Hammar
Employment Practices; Sexual Harassment
Employee's Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Dismissed Due to Lack of 'Viable Claim' 
Court dismissed a sexual harassment lawsuit brought by a former female employee of a denominationally affiliated hospital on the ground that the alleged offenses were not sufficiently severe or pervasive.
Personal Injuries on Church Property or During Church Activities
Release Form Does Not Prohibit Minor from Suing Church After Summer Camp Injury 
Minor who was injured while participating in a church's summer camp program was not barred from suing the church by a release form signed by her mother.
Q&A
Q&A: Will a Plaque Recognizing a Donor's Contribution Prohibit a Tax Deduction?
"Mere recognition" does not nullify a deduction.
infographics

The Effect of Tax Deferral
Infographic: How does tax deferral affect your retirement?