(Newser) – 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. (Read more Pope Benedict XVI stories.)

