Free Church Budget Calculator
This free tool helps you create a realistic budget for your small church. Just enter your numbers below and the calculator will generate a budget breakdown with recommended allocations.
Enter Your Church’s Information
How to Use This Calculator
This calculator provides general budget guidelines based on common small church financial models. Every church is different, so use these numbers as a starting point and adjust based on your specific context.
Budget Allocation Guidelines
- Pastor Compensation (45%): This includes salary, housing allowance, health insurance, retirement contributions, and continuing education. For bi-vocational churches, this percentage may be lower.
- Facilities (20% + mortgage): Utilities, maintenance, insurance, and mortgage or rent. This varies significantly based on the age and size of your building.
- Ministry Expenses (15%): Children’s ministry, youth ministry, worship, Sunday school supplies, and other ministry costs.
- Missions and Benevolence (10%): Local and global missions, helping those in need in your community.
- Administration (5%): Office supplies, software, phone, internet, and other administrative costs.
- Reserve Fund (5%): Savings for emergencies and future needs. Aim to build up 2-3 months of operating expenses.
More Financial Resources
This calculator is just a starting point. For a complete church financial management system, check out these free resources:
- Church Financial Management Guide — Complete guide with templates and policies
- Church Finances Resource Page — All financial templates in one place
- Starter Forms Bundle — Includes financial forms and templates
- Small Church Ministry Guide — Financial chapter included
This tool is provided free by MinistryPlace.net as part of our mission to serve small and rural churches. No email required. No subscription. Just free resources for churches that need them.