Southward Financial Services, LLC offers unique resources for members of the ordained clergy.  We do this for two reasons: first, this is a part of our ministry to the Church and those who work and serve in it. The financial matters of clergy, regardless of denomination, differ in several ways from other callings and professions.  We can help navigate those differences.  

Second, we both have professional backgrounds that make us qualified to assist clergy. Roger Southward, CFP® served for ten years as the chief financial officer at Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Columbus, Ohio and has also served on the Board of Trustees of the Mission Investment Fund of the ELCA. Karen Southward, CPA served for five years as chief financial officer of Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio and was on the Board of Trustees of the Board of Pensions of the ELCA (currently Portico Benefits Services.)

Please look through the following documents to find important information on taxes, financial planning and congregational matters. If you do not see a document that covers your concern, please email us and we will get you an answer.

Clergy Taxation

       Reimbursable Expenses Plan       Items Eligible for Housing Allowance



Preparing a W-2 for Clergy       

      How to Designate Your Housing Allowance

Financial Planning

       Managing Your Portico Account for Retirement Income

Congregational Finances

       Financial Management                  Payroll Management 

                             The Concept of the Housing Allowance