Basic Program

The Basic Retirement Program is designed for all local (domestic) A.M.E. Zion churches and Presiding Elder Districts to support their pastor/presiding elders.

Contributions will go through Zion Benefits Services (ZBS) annually to the plan (during July and no later than September 30th each year). Participants will have full online access to their account 24/7 through customized website for The A.M.E. Zion Church Pastors/Presiding Elders

Each church/district is expected to contribute $250, $500, $750, or $1,000 depending on size of church or district. These amounts are merely suggestions. The contributions will be made annually and will accrue to the minister’s personal retirement account within the plan. To participate in the Basic Program, simply download and complete the Basic Program Contribution Form. This form asks for basic information so that both your church and the pastor can be properly identified in the database. Send the form and check to:

Zion Benefit Services, Inc.
Attn: Basic Program
P.O. Box 217114
Charlotte, NC 28221

Every pastor receiving a contribution will receive instructions on how to access his account. Upon login, he will be able to see the amount contributed and the total value of his account. When the supporting church joins the Choice Program, the pastor will be able to see the value of both his Basic Program account and his Choice Program account simultaneously.

Join The AMEZ Basic Retirement Plan

Click the button below to download and complete the required forms.