The Stoneford Church Retirement Plan
A 403(b)(9) plan created for churches, pastors, and faith-based organizations
View the plan Guide (PDF)
Get Started
Built for the Church,
Not Just Any Organization
In a 403(b)(9) church retirement plan, contributions grow tax-deferred, and clergy can receive housing allowance benefits in retirement.
Clergy housing allowance in retirement.
Portability across ministries.
Managed by trusted partners:
Stoneford, PERA, PCS/Aspire, and Nicene Network.
Learn more about What Makes a 403(b)(9) Different in The Stoneford Retirement Plan Guide (PDF)
How to Join the Plan
You can also review the documents prior to digitally completing the paperwork HERE.
Church Administrator Completes Initial Paperwork
2
3
Participants Enroll
Review the Plan Guide (PDF)
Learn about benefits, costs, and investment options in the official plan guide.
Decision-Maker approves the 403(b)(9) plan
1
Calculate Your Church's Plan Cost
Use our quick form to estimate your church's annual plan cost and contribution structure.
Add Your Church Location
After signing the enrollment package, confirm your church location to activate your plan record.
Participant Enrollment
Once the church is enrolled, each staff member can register individually to set up their account.
Sign the Enrollment Package
This link will route you to DocuSign to digitally complete the entire enrollment package.
Hey There!
We're just double-checking that your church has already completed the church paperwork. If you begin step 3 prior to your church completing steps 1 and 2, it could lead to delays in processing your paperwork.
Did your church administrator let you know it's time to complete the participant enrollment paperwork?
Yes, I know my Church is ready for me to enroll.
No. I'm not sure,
Plan Documents
Mutual Advisors Form CRS
ERISA 3(21) Investment Advisory Agreement
Joinder Agreement Nicene Network
Nicene Network 403(b)(9) Plan - Summary Plan Description
Mutual Advisors Form ADV, Part 2A
Mutual Advisors Form ADV, Part 2B - Stoneford Advisors
For Review
Sign the Enrollment Package
This link will route you to DocuSign to digitally complete the entire enrollment package.
Trusted Plan Partners
Equips churches and ministries with benefits and financial solutions that bring stability and peace of mind.
Third-Party Administrator ensuring plan compliance, enrollment, and ongoing support.
Recordkeeper managing contributions, participant access, and reporting.
Association of churches providing community, resources, and shared infrastructure for ministry growth.
FAQ
What is a 403(b)(9)?
A church retirement plan that offers tax-deferred growth and a unique clergy housing allowance benefit.
Can my church roll in existing retirement accounts?
Yes. Existing eligible accounts can be consolidated into your 403(b)(9) for easier management.
How does the housing allowance work in retirement?
Ordained ministers may exclude eligible housing expenses from taxable income when distributions come from a 403(b)(9) plan.
What does it cost to participate?
Costs vary by church size and contribution level. Use our calculator to get an instant estimate.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to care for your pastors and staff with a plan built for ministry?
Get Started
Contact the Stoneford Team
Cedar Health Alliance (CHA) is Stoneford's core solution for health insurance. It is a dedicated health plan built for churches with 3+ eligible employees.
Group Health Coverage is available for even 1-2 life groups, including traditional, ICHRA, and self-funded options for groups of all sizes.