Benedict's Pension: $3.3K/Month

Which is kind of a lot, considering the Vatican will pay his living expenses
By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 19, 2013 2:23 PM CST
Benedict's Pension: $3.3K/Month
In this file picture made available on March 26, 2012, by the Vatican newspaper Osservatore Romano, Pope Benedict XVI wears a Mexican sombrero hat in Leon, Mexico, Sunday, March 25, 2012.   (AP Photo/Osservatore Romano)

Thinking about "pope" as your career goal? Consider the retirement package, which is apparently around $3,340 per month. That's how much Pope Benedict will get when he abdicates later this month, and while it may seem a bit low for someone who was the leader of the entire Roman Catholic Church, also consider the fact that most if not all of his expenses will be covered by the Vatican after he retires. (He'll be living there, for one thing.)

In fact, the question of "what exactly does he need $3,340 per month for" has already been raised, the Independent reports. And that amount could end up even higher: If Benedict receives the title of emeritus cardinal from the next pope, his pension will double. (He'll be made "Emeritus Bishop of Rome" upon stepping down.) Interestingly, MarketWatch notes that the maximum Social Security benefit a US retiree can earn is $3,350. (More Pope Benedict XVI stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X