June 9, 2025
Grow Your Retirement Plan Business with 403(b)(9) Church Plans
Faith-based organizations are Slot Bonus-eligible payroll slots too.
If you’re looking to grow your retirement plan business, there’s a high-potential market you may not have explored yet—church plans. These plans offer unique features that align with faith-based organizations, giving you access to a new segment of employer-sponsored retirement plans and the opportunity to open payroll slots where you can also offer life insurance.
Why 403(b)(9) plans are different—and valuable
Unlike traditional 403(b) plans, 403(b)(9) “church plans” are structured specifically for religious institutions. Employers can choose who is eligible, and they’re not required to make contributions, giving organizations flexibility in how they set up their plans.
The standout difference? 403(b)(9) plans allow life insurance, which traditional 403(b) plans do not. This opens the door for a more holistic financial strategy—one that integrates income protection, retirement savings, and legacy planning. You’re not just helping participants retire—you’re helping them fulfill their values and protect their loved ones.
To illustrate this opportunity with clients, use the 403(b)(9) Church Plans consumer flyer and consumer brochure—they’re designed to help you clearly communicate the value of these plans.
Another reason to consider church plans? Ordained, licensed, or commissioned ministers can take non-taxable distributions in retirement when used for a housing allowance. This unique benefit is not available in 401(k) plans and can be a major selling point for faith-based employers.
For a side-by-side comparison that highlights this and other advantages, refer to this Comparison of 403(b)(9) vs. 401(k) Plans.
With a 403(b)(9), participants can name their organization as the beneficiary of their annuity death benefit and legacy death benefit. And if the life insurance policy is a FlexLife IUL from National Life Group, a powerful charitable match is available: up to 2% of the policy’s face amount, capped at $30,000 per policy, paid directly to the organization upon the insured’s death.
This benefit adds a compelling layer of value—blending personal financial protection with meaningful, lasting impact. The FlexLife Charitable Matching Gift flyer ( also available on CoBrand on Demand) explains how it works in simple, client-friendly terms.
Earn more with Slot Bonus
Church plans are eligible for National Life’s Slot Bonus Program.
To participate, the Slot Bonus Request Form must be completed and submitted prior to submitting the first application.
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