Let us help you get a head start on retirement.

For those in ministry, Pension Fund offers early-career assistance in starting a Pension Plan. Through our Student Gift program, we help students begin to save for retirement early by gifting Pension Plan dues to deserving ministry students.

What is a Student Gift Membership?

Established in 1953, the Student Gift Membership Program assists students like you who are preparing for ministry by introducing them early to the benefits of membership in the Pension Plan of Pension Fund. The program is part of Pension Fund's Ministerial Relief and Assistance Fund.

Download our Student Gift Membership brochure

Click the + Button to learn more.

What is the cost?

The Student Gift Membership Program pays Pension Plan dues ($70 per month) at no cost to you.

Eligibility:

Either:

Enrolled at least 6 hours in graduate theological education and under care of a Disciples of Christ region; OR
Enrolled in an undergraduate ministry degree and participating in a formal ministry internship.

AND:

Student has a Stone-Campbell/Restoration Movement relationship

Student Gift participants are eligible for up to four years, as long as you continue to be enrolled in school and meet eligibility requirements.

Key Benefits:

Head start on saving for retirement with a pension
A monthly retirement benefit for your lifetime*
Death and disability benefits
Special Apportionments (when approved, these add to your pension credits)

Requirements/Next Steps:

Complete a Student Gift Membership Enrollment Form
Submit completed application via email to pfcc1@pensionfund.org
You pension plan account will begin in the next month following approval of your application

Pension Fund Contact Information:

Dee Long, dlong@pensionfund.org, 843.708.1103

* In order to receive your retirement benefit and/or remain in active status, pension dues must be continued within two years after receipt of diploma (either through an employer or self-payment)

“I started my Pension Plan participation in 2007 as a seminary student...I’m amazed at the growth in my monthly retirement benefit, and I’m definitely glad I joined early.”

Rev. Geoff Brewster, Phillips Seminary