Nazarene Benefits USA (NBUSA) is pleased to announce three important benefit enhancements designed to strengthen the financial wellbeing and security of our ministers and their families, effective January 1, 2026. Each initiative aligns with NBUSA’s long-term mission of serving those who serve the Church in the U.S.
1. Enhanced 403(b) Matching for Local Church Ministers
NBUSA’s 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan for local church ministers will now feature a 100% match on the first $250 contributed each year—whether that contribution is made by the minister, the local church, or a combination of both—provided other minimum eligibility requirements are met.
This new feature is not an additional benefit on top of the regular matching program, but rather the first portion of it. The overall NBUSA matching structure and annual limitations remain unchanged.
The purpose of this 100% match on the first $250 is to encourage every local church minister to begin participating—or increase participation—in retirement savings. It provides an immediate incentive to contribute and establishes momentum toward higher contribution levels, which in turn yield greater matching benefits and growth in resources for retirement.
2. New NBUSA Emergency Savings Match Program
In partnership with the Church’s COMPASS Initiative, NBUSA is introducing an Emergency Savings Account Match Program which has specifically been designed to encourage ministers to establish personal emergency-savings accounts and build financial resilience.
Ministers who complete the short COMPASS financial-wellness course and verify at least $750 saved in a personal emergency-savings account will receive a one-time NBUSA matching contribution of $750. Participation will be limited to 400 ministers per year on a first-come, first-served basis.
This new initiative represents a tangible step toward financial stability, helping ministers prepare for unexpected expenses and reduce vulnerability to financial hardship.
3. Increased Survivor Benefit Coverage
NBUSA will also implement a 20% increase in the base level of survivor benefits (life insurance) for qualified active ministers, effective January 1, 2026.
This enhancement increases the benefit available to the surviving family members of an active minister, helping ensure greater financial protection in the event of a minister’s death. The increase will be implemented effective January 1, 2026, with no change to participant eligibility or contribution requirements.
Continuing Our Commitment
These three initiatives—the enhanced 403(b) match, new emergency-savings match, and increased survivor benefit—reflect NBUSA’s ongoing commitment to caring for ministers and their financial wellbeing.
By addressing retirement readiness, emergency preparedness, and family protection together, NBUSA continues to promote strong stewardship practices that serve the mission and people of the Church of the Nazarene.
For more information about eligibility and participation, visit nbusa.org or contact the NBUSA office.