2026 Minimum Compensation &
Benefit Guidelines
2026 Compensation & Benefits Calculator
This calculator is provided to easily determine the minimum compensation and benefit package for Rostered Ministers serving in the La Crosse Area Synod. The calculator uses the 2026 Minimum Compensation and Benefit Guidelines, as approved by the 2025 Synod Assembly, as the framework for all calculations.
For congregations in the midst of pastoral transitions, this calculator is a tool to help you understand a range of total compensation and benefit packages depending on different candidates’ information. Congregations with called pastors and deacons can use this calculator to determine the minimum levels at which they should be compensating their rostered ministers for the next budget cycle.
Minimum Compensation & Benefit Guideline Worksheets
Portico Benefit 2026 Recommendations
Congregational Leaders,
The La Crosse Area Synod Executive Committee took some time to review the new Portico offerings and made updates to the Memorandum of Understanding for 2026 (available above). In keeping close with past practice while also offering flexibility to Rostered Leaders, the Synod Executive Committee has approved the following recommendation for councils to consider: Motion to recommend congregations select the Copay 2000 plan for their rostered leaders with an option for the congregation to contribute to an HSA should they select the HDHP 2000 plan. Recommendations for HSA contribution from congregations is as follows; $500 for single coverage, $1000 for coverage that includes a spouse or children, and $1500 for coverage that includes spouse and children. (See Chart)
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please feel free to reach out to the synod office for further help and consider participating in the Portico Educational Sessions via zoom to learn more.
God Bless,
Felix Malpica, Bishop of the La Crosse Area Synod