Consitutionality of tax-free clergy housing allowance challenged in Sacramento

[MindPilot]

The Rev. Michael Rodgers leads a small congregation in North Highlands and lives in a nearby neighborhood, which he can afford because he receives a government benefit his neighbors do not: a tax break on his housing.

Rodgers gets a housing allowance – what is generally referred to as a "parsonage allowance" – and pays no taxes on that money.

snip

If the foundation wins, Rodgers and his brethren across the country would have to declare their housing allowances as income.

For Rodgers, this would mean paying taxes on the $1,452 monthly housing allowance he receives in addition to his $31,000 annual salary at the Faith Baptist Tabernacle Church in North Highlands, where he has served as pastor for 18 years.


http://www.sacbee.com/topstories/story/2449153.html

[LiberalFighter]

1. At the least they should pay taxes on income.

Do those that work for charities get to receive tax free housing or income?

[MindPilot]

2. that's one of the points of the lawsuit

A teacher--who arguably provides a far more valuable service to the community--doesn't get a housing allowance.