Choice Program

The Choice Program is established to provide A.M.E. Zion Churches and Presiding Elder Districts the opportunity to offer their ministers and staff world-class retirement options using best practices within the financial services industry.

All domestic churches AND participants/staff can contribute to the Choice Program in addition to the Basic Program.

Contributions by the church/district and employees are encouraged; all eligible participants may contribute voluntarily to the plan regardless as to whether the church chooses to contribute.

  • Additional employer contribution (dollar amount or %)

  • Participant voluntary contributions (Pre-tax and/or Roth contributions)

  • Contributions provided from Church(s) directly to the plan’s custodian

  • Participant directed investment through enrollment

  • Investment menu will have major investment categories represented including faith-based fund options

  • Plan design features (loan/distribution provisions, eligibility requirements, hardships, etc.)

  • Participants will have full online access to their account 24/7 through a customized website for all A.M.E. Zion Church participants

  • 100% vested (voluntary contributions), vesting schedule for Church contributions if the church so choses

Although the church is adopting the master A.M.E. Zion Church 403(b)(9) Retirement Plan, each church/district will decide who on their staff will be eligible for a contribution, the amount of the contribution, and any length of employment conditions for eligibility. This provision allows your church/district to custom tailor its retirement plan to meet its specific need.

Join The Program

Participation in this plan involves your church adopting the A.M.E. Zion Church 403(b)(9) Retirement Plan. Each participating church becomes a Member Sponsor and appoints a Plan Representative to be the focal point of contact for the church staff as well as for our ministry partner, Envoy Financial.

Churches/Districts may join by simply completing the online process.

NOTE: Contributions to the plan must be made by payroll deduction or employer contribution. Direct contributions by a participant are not allowed due to IRS regulations.