The constitutionality of the “parsonage exclusion” is currently before the Seventh Circuit. Amicus briefs are flooding in and strong opinions are being expressed for both sides. The income tax exemption that excludes housing allowances for clergy from income tax is being defended by the government, even though this exemption results in a $700 million loss for the government. The Freedom From Religion Foundation is challenging the tax exemption. Amicus Briefs in support of the government’s position have come from The Alliance Defending Freedom and the Jewish Commission on Law and Public Affairs, among other groups.
See Peter J. Reilly, Clergy Out in Force to Defend Their Housing Tax Break, Forbes, April 10, 2014.
Special thanks to Brian Cohan (Attorney at Law, Law Offices of Brian J. Cohan, P.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.
