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Text Content

The application for the King County Relief Fund is CLOSED. Applicants will be
notified if their application was approved or denied after October 15th.
Payments will be sent for approved applications after October 15th.

You may also be eligible for a NEW state fund for immigrants:
Applications for the Washington COVID-19 Immigrant Relief Fund are now OPEN. To
apply, please visit: immigrantreliefwa.org. The application will close on
November 14th.

 * Eligibility
 * How to Apply
 * Assistance
 * FAQ
 * 
 * Apply Now

Apply NowGet language support!

EnglishEspañol中文（简体）中文（繁體）한국어Tiếng Việt



FUNDED BY KING COUNTY

This program receives funding from King County.
Check out the press release about the program launch from King County.


MASSACHUSETTS SERVICE ALLIANCE MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND

The Massachusetts Service Alliance Member Assistance Fund is a collaborative
program with America's Service Commissions (ASC).  This program provides direct
cash assistance of up to $500 for eligible AmeriCorps members living and serving
in Massachusetts.  


The Fund is designed to assist with emergency financial needs occurring within
the 2024-25 program year that threaten a member’s ability to continue their
service term.

Apply NowGet language support!



APPLICATION AND
PAYMENT TIMELINE

Awards up to $500
Apply Now


APPLICATION OPENS

Application will be open on August 1st, 2024, and will remain open until funds
are depleted.




APPLICATION REVIEW

Applications will be reviewed weekly.




DECISIONS AND PAYMENTS

Decisions and payments will be sent weekly beginning August 5th, 2024.




Apply now


LEARN HOW TO APPLY

Apply NowGet Help

 * GET APPLICATION ASSISTANCE
   
   For help in your language over the phone, please visit the application
   assistance section here.
 * Apply Now


ELIGIBILITY:

To apply, you must meet  ALL of the requirements below:


 * Be at least 17 years old at the time of application
   ‍AND
 * Reside within Massachusetts
   ‍AND
 * Be an active AmeriCorps member serving a minimum of 300 hours in an eligible
   Massachusetts Service Alliance program
   ‍AND
 * Have a financial emergency that occurred on or after August 1, 2024.


ELIGIBLE EMERGENCY EXPENSES

The emergency expense that threatens a member’s ability to continue their
service must fall within the following categories:

 1. Medical (personal, family, or pet)
 2. Housing 
 3. Transportation
 4. Expense related to a family loss
 5. Other*

Please note: Selecting the “Other” emergency category may require additional
review. Please be prepared to provide supporting documentation.


 For further information on eligible expenses, please visit
ameraidmassachusetts.org/#FAQ .

For further information on eligible expenses, contact: support@ameraid.org


HOW TO APPLY

Before you apply, you should:

 1. Gather the required documents providing proof of identity and residence in
    Massachusetts, and my.AmeriCorps or eGrants portal screenshot verifying your
    AmeriCorps member status. You can review the list of approved materials at
     ameraidmassachusetts.org/#required-documents.

To apply, you should:

 1. Click the "Apply Now" button on this website, this will take you to the
    application page.
 2. Create a Scholar Fund account. You will only need to provide your email
    address and set up a password.
 3. Complete all of the application questions. Your application will
    automatically save so you are able to come back at any time. 
 4. Once you are finished with your application, you will receive a confirmation
    text message and email with your Submission ID. Save this to check the
    status of your application or if you need help from our support team.

After you apply, you should: Check your email inbox or spam folder for your
confirmation. You will also receive a text message confirmation the day you
submit your application. You may log back into the application portal account to
see if your application is being reviewed or if a decision has been made. Please
only submit your application one time.  

If you need help filling out the application, or need to correct an error after
you have submitted, please contact us as (206) 558-6144 or support@ameraid.org.

If you need to update your contact or payment information after receiving the
notification that you have been approved, please contact us as (206) 558-6144 or
support@ameraid.org.


REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

You will need to upload documents to confirm your identity and your connection
to Massachusetts, and my.AmeriCorps or eGrants portal screenshot verifying your
AmeriCorps member status. The table below provides a list of documents you can
use for identity and residency. 

Please select one item from List A (Identity and Residency) OR one item from
both List B (Identity) and List C (Residency) to upload. 

Make sure the copy is clear and readable. Remember, there is no cost to apply.
If someone asks you to pay something,  it is a scam! Report it to
support@ameraid.org

 * [List A] Massachusetts Residency & Identity Documents
 * [List B] Identity Documents 
 * [List C] Residency Documents





CLICK TO VIEW THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS


[LIST A]
MASSACHUSETTS STATE RESIDENCY & IDENTITY DOCUMENTS


[LIST B]
IDENTITY DOCUMENTS


[LIST C]
RESIDENCY DOCUMENTS

 * Massachusetts Identification Card showing your full name and Massachusetts
   address
 * Massachusetts Driver License showing your full name and Massachusetts address
 * Utility bill showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * Cell phone bill or internet bill showing your full name and Massachusetts
   address 
 * Insurance statement showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * Bank statement showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * 2021 or 2022 tax return showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * Paystub from employer showing your full name and your Massachusetts address 
 * None. I am going to select one option each from List B and List C

 * Any State or Country Identification Card showing your full name 
   
 * Any State Driver's License showing full name
   
 * Any government issued card showing your full name
   
 * Passport showing your full name
   
 * Birth certificate showing your full name
   
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A 
   

Signed and dated letter* stating the full name and phone number of the person
writing the letter from the following entities: 
 * Landlord acknowledging your Massachusetts  residency 
 * Employer acknowledging your Massachusetts residency
   
 * A representative from your place of worship acknowledging your Massachusetts
   residency 
   
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A
   


[LIST B]
DOCUMENTS FOR CONFIRMING YOUR IDENTITY


[LIST C]
DOCUMENTS CONFIRMING YOUR SEATTLE RESIDENCY

*You may use this letter template for this application.


** Plaid Verification: If you have a Massachusetts State Driver’s License or
State ID card, you are able to use our **express verification** to verify your
identity and residency. Express verification is a quicker, safer, and more
secure verification process. 

Our expedited verification process happens in a few easy steps: 

 * You’ll be texted a unique code to your phone 
 * You’ll be asked to verify your identity and address
 * If we can’t automatically verify you’ll be asked to upload a picture of your
   ID

Finish in as quick as 30 seconds!

AmeriCorps Member Verification: You will need to upload your My.AmeriCorps
Portal screenshot to confirm that you are an active AmeriCorps member. For an
example, please visit bit.ly/3TWyZAi.

Proof of Need: If your funding request is $1,000 or more, documentation is
required. For example, a letter from a landlord about your rent increase; a
hospital bill; a repair bill/invoice, or a letter from your Program Lead.

Remember, there is no cost to apply. If someone asks you to pay something, it is
a scam! Report it to support@ameraid.org

Apply now


READY TO APPLY? SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION TODAY!

Apply Now!



APPLICATION ASSISTANCE

Our team is available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM (PT) to answer
your questions.


TEXT US

For the fastest response, send us a text, and we’ll get back to you as soon as
possible!  (Messaging & data rates may apply)


Text us
(206) 558-6144





EMAIL US

Email the team with your questions or a brief description of your issue, and
we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible!


Email us
support@ameraid.org





CALL US

Call our team if you have questions, need to know where you can get application
assistance or need to report a problem with the application form.


Call us
(206) 558-6144


Available Monday - Friday, 9 am -5 pm
Support across multiple languages
72hr response time


APPLICATION ASSISTANCE

You can get help submitting your application by contacting (206) 558-6115 or
support@ameraid.org


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Have questions about the Massachusetts Service Alliance Member Assistance Fund?

Eligibility
Help Applying
Payments
Fraud and Privacy

WHAT IS THE MASSACHUSETTS SERVICE ALLIANCE MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND? 



The Massachusetts Service Alliance Member Assistance Fund is a collaborative
program with America's Service Commissions (ASC).  This program provides direct
cash assistance of up to $500 for eligible AmeriCorps members living and serving
in Massachusetts.  The Fund is designed to assist with emergency financial needs
occurring within the 2024-25 program year that threaten a member’s ability to
continue their service term.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR THE MASSACHUSETTS SERVICE ALLIANCE
MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND? 



The eligibility for this program will be determined by your history of residing
in Massachusetts State and being an AmeriCorps member.
To apply, you must meet ALL of the requirements below: 


 * Be at least 17 years old at time of application
   AND 
 * ‍Reside within Massachusetts
   AND
 * Be an active AmeriCorps member serving a minimum of 300 hours in an eligible
   Massachusetts Service Alliance program
   AND
 * Have a financial emergency that occurred on or after August 1, 2024.
   

WHICH MASSACHUSETTS SERVICE ALLIANCE PROGRAMS ARE ELIGIBLE?



To be eligible to apply you must serve full or part-time in one of the following
Massachusetts Service Alliance programs:

 * 826 Boston, Inc.
 * Barnstable County AmeriCorps Cape Cod
 * Boston Plan for Excellence (BPE)
 * Boys and Girls Club of Metro South
 * Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity

 * City of Lawrence
   
 * City Year Boston
 * Framingham State University
 * Franklin County DIAL/SELF
 * Greenagres, Inc
 * Jumpstart for Young Children
 * LUK Crisis Center, Inc.
 * Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA)
 * Neighborhealth Corporation
 * Northeastern University
 * Perkins School for the Blind
 * Playworks Education Energized
 * Social Capital Inc. (SCI)
 * South Coastal Counties Legal Services
 * Springfield College
 * Student Conservation Assocation Historic Preservation (SCA HP)
 * Student Conservation Association MA (SCA MA)
 * Teach For America (TFA)
 * Teach Western Mass
 * TerraCorps, Inc.
 * Trustees of Boston University
 * Trustees of Clark University
 * United Way of Massachusetts Bay
 * Walker, Inc.

 WHAT IS CONSIDERED AN EMERGENCY EXPENSE?



An emergency expense is defined by an unforeseen, urgent event or circumstance
that necessitates immediate financial assistance and threatens a member’s
ability to continue their service.
‍
The emergency expense must fall within the following categories:

 * Medical (personal, family, or pet)
 * Housing
 * Transportation
 * Expense related to a family loss
 * Other*

Please note: Selecting the “Other” emergency category may require additional
review. Please be prepared to provide supporting documentation.

The following costs are NOT considered emergency expenses:

 * Regular transportation costs 
   
 * Routine vehicle maintenance 
 * Expected healthcare costs 
 * Expected costs for education or professional development 
 * Typical rent, utility, and other non-emergency housing costs 
 * Entertainment

MY EMERGENCY EXPENSE OCCURRED PRIOR TO THE LAUNCH, AM I ABLE TO APPLY?



To apply, you must have had a financial emergency that occurred on or after
August 1, 2024.

WILL I BE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION TO PROVE FINANCIAL NEED?



You will not be required to submit documentation at the time of application.
However, please request funding for the amount you have or will have
documentation for as you may be asked to provide it in the future.

Eligible documentation includes a letter from a landlord about your rent
increase; a hospital bill; a repair bill/invoice, or letter from your Program
lead.

I CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE PERMANENT HOUSING. CAN I STILL APPLY, AND HOW CAN I
RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID WITHOUT A MAILING ADDRESS? 



Yes. Applicants without permanent housing should still apply. You have two
options: 

 * If you are eligible and prefer to receive a physical check, you may send your
   payment to someone’s address you trust, within Massachusetts State.
 * If you are eligible and prefer to receive direct deposit, please select this
   option.

I CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE PERMANENT HOUSING. WHAT RESIDENCY DOCUMENTS CAN I USE? 



If you have a current document from List A that provides proof of your identity
and residency in Massachusetts prior to not having housing, you can provide it
on the application.

If you do not have a document from List A, you can provide a document from List
B proving your identity AND a signed and dated letter from one of the people
listed in List C proving that you reside in Massachusetts.

I CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE PERMANENT HOUSING. WHAT ADDRESS CAN I USE ON MY
APPLICATION? 



If you have a current List A document verifying your identity and residency in
Massachusetts, please enter the Massachusetts state address you had prior to
becoming unhoused. 
‍
If you do not have a current List A document, and are providing a List B
(identity) and List C (residency) document, please enter the address listed in
your List C document.

I LIVE OUTSIDE OF THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BOUNDARIES. CAN I STILL APPLY? 



No. If you live outside of Massachusetts state boundaries, you may not be
eligible.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER OPTIONS IF I AM NOT ABLE TO RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID FROM THE
MASSACHUSETTS SERVICE ALLIANCE MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND? 



At this moment there are no other funding programs available.

WILL EVERY AMERICORPS MEMBER WHO APPLIES RECEIVE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE? 



Due to limited funds, we are unable to serve every AmeriCorps member. Some
eligible members may not receive financial support. 

HOW ARE ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS SELECTED? 



Due to limited funds, we are unable to serve everyone. We are selecting
applicants on a first come first serve basis.

WHEN WILL THE APPLICATION OPEN?



The application will open on August 1, 2024.

WHEN ARE APPLICATIONS DUE? 



There is no due date, however the application will remain open until funds are
depleted.

WHAT KIND OF DOCUMENTS WILL I NEED TO SUBMIT? 



You will need to upload documents to confirm your identity and residency, and a
screenshot of your my.AmeriCorps or eGrants homepage verifying your AmeriCorps
member status.
‍
The table below provides a list of documents you can use for identity and
residency. Please ensure you have a clear copy of one item from List A OR one
item from both List B and List C.

[List A] Massachusetts State Residency & Identity Documents

 * Massachusetts Identification Card showing your full name and Massachusetts
   address
 * Massachusetts Driver License showing your full name and Massachusetts address
 * Utility bill showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * Cell phone bill or internet bill showing your full name and Massachusetts
   address 
 * Insurance statement showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * Bank statement showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * 2021 or 2022 tax return showing your full name and Massachusetts address 
 * Paystub from employer showing your full name and your Massachusetts address 
 * None. I am going to select one option each from List B and List C
   ‍

[List B] Identity Documents

 * Any State or Country Identification Card showing your full name 
 * Any State Driver's License showing full name 
 * Any government issued card showing your full name
 * Passport showing your full name
 * Birth certificate showing your full name
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A 
   ‍

[List C] Residency Documents

Signed and dated letter* stating the full name and phone number of the person
writing the letter from the following entities: 

 * Landlord acknowledging your Massachusetts residency 
 * Employer acknowledging your Massachusetts residency
 * A representative from your place of worship acknowledging your Massachusetts
   residency 
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A

*You may use this letter template for this application.

AmeriCorps Member Verification: You will need to upload your My.AmeriCorps
Portal screenshot to confirm that you are an active AmeriCorps member. For an
example of the My.AmeriCorps Portal, please visit bit.ly/3TWyZAi.


THERE ARE MULTIPLE AMERICORPS MEMBERS LIVING AT MY ADDRESS. HOW SHOULD WE
APPLY? 



Each AmeriCorps member should submit their own application that includes their
own funding request for their own emergency expense.

IF I HELP SOMEONE COMPLETE AN APPLICATION, WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED TO SHARE
WITH THEM?



Please give all applicants their Submission ID and tell them to write it down
and/or take a photo and save it somewhere. This number is very important to
track the status of their application.

HOW DO I UPDATE MY INFORMATION OR CORRECT AN ERROR AFTER I SUBMIT MY
APPLICATION?



If you need to update or correct an error on your application after it has been
submitted, please contact us as (206) 558-6144 or support@ameraid.org.

IS THERE AN APPEAL PROCESS IF AFTER I APPLY I DO NOT RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID FROM
THE MASSACHUSETTS SERVICE ALLIANCE MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND? 



Due to the anticipated high number of applications, there will not be an appeal
process. However, if a new financial emergency occurs during the 2024-25 service
year, we encourage you to please review the eligibility requirements listed, and
submit a new application for review if you meet the criteria.

‍Please note that eligible applicants are only able to receive a one-time
payment, for now.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I SUBMIT A DUPLICATE APPLICATION BY MISTAKE? ARE WE THEN
DISQUALIFIED AS A RESULT? 



If you submit multiple applications by mistake, Scholar Fund will be able to
identify that multiple applications were submitted and will review the
application that conveys the higher need. Applicants may also be contacted via
phone call or text if application issues are detected.

I SUBMITTED MY APPLICATION, BUT HAVEN’T HEARD BACK YET. WHEN WILL I FIND OUT IF
I’VE BEEN APPROVED?



Applications will begin to be reviewed on a weekly basis. Starting the week of
August 5th, 2024, decisions will go out weekly via email and text message to the
contact information indicated on your application. You may look up the status of
your application at any time by logging back into the application portal. Please
be patient as we are reviewing applications.

HOW MUCH ARE PAYMENTS? 



Payments are up to $500, and can be processed as a check or ACH, which is a
direct deposit into your bank account.


IS THIS A ONE-TIME PAYMENT? 



Eligible applicants are only able to receive a one-time payment, for now.

WHEN WILL I GET MY PAYMENT?



Payments will be released to the community in weekly intervals starting the week
of August 5th, 2024. Mailed checks may take longer to receive and we expect
everyone will receive payment within 14 days after you have been given your
award notice.

HOW CAN I RECEIVE MY PAYMENT? 



There are two options for receiving payments: 
Check

 * When: 7-14 days after you have been notified of an award. 
 * How: Mail via postal service to the mailing address you provided. 
 * *Physical checks are void after 90 days.

Direct deposit

 * When: 2-5 days after you have been notified of an award.
 * How: Transferred to the direct deposit info you provided. 

CAN I HAVE MY PAYMENT SENT TO A DIFFERENT ADDRESS FROM MY RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS?



Yes, the mailing address could be a P.O. box or any address where you feel more
comfortable receiving payment, as long as the address is within Massachusetts.

IF APPROVED, CAN I CHANGE MY FORM OF PAYMENT?



Yes, you can change your form of payment after you have been approved. Please
contact Scholar Fund at (206) 558-6144 or at support@ameraid.org with your name,
submission ID, and the form of payment you would prefer.

IF I AM APPROVED, CAN I CHANGE MY AWARD AMOUNT?



No, once you are approved changes cannot be made to your award amount.

DO I HAVE TO PAY THIS MONEY BACK? WILL THIS IMPACT MY TAXES?



No, if you receive a payment of $500 or less, you do not have to pay this money
back or report it on your taxes because the payment is under $600.

IF I AM AWARDED $600 OR MORE, HOW WILL I RECEIVE MY 1099 FORM FOR MY 2024 TAXES?



Regardless of your payment type, applicants who were awarded $600 or more will
receive a digital 1099 Form to the email address provided in the application by
the end of January 2025.

IS THE INFORMATION I PROVIDE IN THE APPLICATION CONFIDENTIAL? 



The nonprofit organization Scholar Fund does not voluntarily share your data
with government entities, including Massachusetts State. Scholar Fund is
responsible for collecting the personal information you voluntarily submit on
the online application for the Massachusetts Service Alliance Member Assistance
Fund. To help prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure
the correct use of information, Scholar Fund has instituted appropriate
physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the
information they collect.
‍
‍You can learn more about the Scholar Fund’s comprehensive Privacy Policy here
(English only). 

THE MY.AMERICORPS OR EGRANTS PORTAL SCREENSHOT HAS SENSITIVE INFORMATION SUCH AS
MY SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER. HOW CAN I SHARE MY INFORMATION PRIVATELY?



The information you provide in the application is stored securely in an
encrypted format so it cannot be accessed. If you feel more comfortable, please
block out your Social Security Number. However, please make sure your name,
birth date, and National Service Participant ID (NSPID) are clearly visible.
‍
Also make sure to never share your eGrants portal screenshots in an unsecure way
such as text or an un-encrypted email.

WHY AM I BEING ASKED DEMOGRAPHIC QUESTIONS? WILL MY ANSWERS AFFECT MY
ELIGIBILITY?



Demographic questions are asked to better understand who is being served with
the Member Assistance Fund. Your answers will have no effect on your
eligibility, and you can choose not to disclose any demographic information.

The information you provide will never be shared with any government agency with
your name attached to it.

HOW WILL THE MASSACHUSETTS SERVICE ALLIANCE MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND APPLICATION
PROCESS PREVENT FRAUD? 



In order to identify fraud, avoid duplicates, and maintain disbursement limits,
Scholar Fund has developed several mechanisms to screen for discrepancies, which
includes a thorough application review process, spam filters, and address
verification. Applicants may also be contacted via phone or text if application
issues are detected.

WHAT DO I DO IF I DISCOVER THAT AN APPLICANT HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR MORE THAN ONE
APPLICATION?



If you discover that an applicant has been approved and/or funded multiple
times, please notify Scholar Fund at (206) 558-6115 or support@ameraid.org. If
applicants apply using different names or slightly different information, it
makes deduplication difficult. However, we can stop payment if it has not been
cashed.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Have questions about the Volunteer Florida Member Assistance Fund?

Eligibility
Help Applying
Payments
Fraud and Privacy

WHAT IS THE VOLUNTEER FLORIDA MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND?



The Volunteer Florida Member Assistance Fund is a program in collaboration with
America's Service Commissions (ASC) to support AmeriCorps Florida members with
emergency financial stressors during the 2023-24 program year that affect their
ability to continue their service term. Applicants can request up to $1,500 in
financial assistance. 

If your financial emergency occurred between August and December, 2023 and
currently impacts your ability to serve, your application must be received by
February 15th. New financial stressors will be considered for the Volunteer
Florida Member Assistance Fund after February 15, 2024.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR THE VOLUNTEER FLORIDA MEMBER
ASSISTANCE RELIEF FUND? 



The eligibility for this program will be determined by your history of residing
in Florida State and being an AmeriCorps member.
To apply, you must meet ALL of the requirements below: 


 * Be at least 17 years old at time of application
 * ‍AND Reside within Florida
 * ‍AND Be an active AmeriCorps member serving full or part-time in a Volunteer
   Florida program.
 * You’ll be asked to verify your identity and address
 * If we can’t automatically verify you’ll be asked to upload a picture of your
   ID

 WHAT IS CONSIDERED AN EMERGENCY EXPENSE?



An emergency expense that affects your ability to continue your service term can
include:

 * A hospital bill related to an accident or sudden illness 
 * A sudden repair bill for plumbing, windows, etc. 
 * An expense related to the death of an immediate family or household member 
 * An unforeseen childcare cost 
 * An emergency transportation expense

 * A hospital bill related to an accident or sudden illness 
 * A sudden repair bill for plumbing, windows, etc. 
 * An expense related to the death of an immediate family or household member 
 * An unforeseen childcare cost 
 * An emergency transportation expense

An emergency expense that affects your ability to continue your service term can
include:

WHAT IS NOT AN EMERGENCY EXPENSE?



The following costs are not considered emergency expenses:

 * Regular transportation costs 
 * Routine vehicle maintenance 
 * Expected healthcare costs 
 * Expected costs for education or professional development 
 * Typical rent, utility, and other housing costs 
 * Food and entertainment

WILL I BE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION TO PROVE FINANCIAL NEED?



If your funding request is over $1,000 you will be required to provide proof of
need. Eligible documentation includes letter from a landlord about your rent
increase; a hospital bill; a repair bill/invoice, etc. 

If your funding request is less than $1,000 you will not be required to submit
documentation at the time of application. However, please request funding for
the amount you have or will have documentation for as you may be asked to
provide it in the future.

I CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE PERMANENT HOUSING. CAN I STILL APPLY, AND HOW CAN I
RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID WITHOUT A MAILING ADDRESS? 



Yes. Applicants without permanent housing should still apply. You have two
options: 

 * If you are eligible and prefer to receive a physical check, you may send your
   payment to someone’s address you trust, within Florida State.
 * If you are eligible and prefer to receive direct deposit, please select this
   option.

I CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE PERMANENT HOUSING. WHAT RESIDENCY DOCUMENTS CAN I USE? 



If you have a current document from List A that provides proof of your identity
and residency in Florida prior to not having housing, you can provide it on the
application.

If you do not have a document from List A, you can provide a document from List
B proving your identity AND a signed and dated letter from one of the people
listed in List C proving that you reside in Florida.


[LIST A]
FLORIDA STATE RESIDENCY & IDENTITY DOCUMENTS


[LIST B]
IDENTITY DOCUMENTS


[LIST C]
RESIDENCY DOCUMENTS

 * Florida Identification Card showing your full name and Florida address
 * Florida Driver License showing your full name and Florida address
 * Utility bill showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Cell phone bill or internet bill showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Insurance statement showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Bank statement showing your full name and Florida address 
 * 2021 or 2022 tax return showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Paystub from employer showing your full name and your Florida address 
 * None. I am going to select one option each from List B and List C

 * Any State or Country Identification Card showing your full name 
   
 * Any State Driver's License showing full name
   
 * Any government issued card showing your full name
   
 * Passport showing your full name
   
 * Birth certificate showing your full name
   
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A 
   

Signed and dated letter* stating the full name and phone number of the person
writing the letter from the following entities: 
 * Landlord acknowledging your Florida  residency 
 * Employer acknowledging your Florida residency
   
 * A representative from your place of worship acknowledging your Florida
   residency 
   
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A
   


[LIST B]
DOCUMENTS FOR CONFIRMING YOUR IDENTITY


[LIST C]
DOCUMENTS CONFIRMING YOUR SEATTLE RESIDENCY

*You may use this letter template for this application.


I CURRENTLY DO NOT HAVE PERMANENT HOUSING. WHAT ADDRESS CAN I USE ON MY
APPLICATION? 



If you have a current List A document verifying your identity and residency in
Florida State, please enter the Florida State address you had prior to becoming
houseless. 

If you do not have a current List A document, and are providing a List B
(identity) and List C (residency) document, please enter the address listed in
your List C document.

I LIVE OUTSIDE OF THE FLORIDA STATE BOUNDARIES. CAN I STILL APPLY? 



No. If you live outside of Florida State boundaries, you may not be eligible.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER OPTIONS IF I AM NOT ABLE TO RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID FROM THE
VOLUNTEER FLORIDA MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND? 



At this moment there are no other funding programs available.

WILL EVERY AMERICORPS MEMBER WHO APPLIES RECEIVE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE? 



Due to limited funds, we are unable to serve every AmeriCorps member. Some
eligible members may not receive financial support. 

HOW ARE ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS SELECTED? 



Due to limited funds, we are unable to serve everyone. To support those with the
most need, we are prioritizing applicants based on need.

WHEN WILL THE APPLICATION OPEN?



The Volunteer Florida Member Assistance Fund will open on [DATE].

WHEN ARE APPLICATIONS DUE? 



The Volunteer Florida Member Assistance Fund will remain open until funds are
depleted.

WHAT KIND OF DOCUMENTS WILL I NEED TO SUBMIT? 



You will need to upload documents to confirm your identity and your connection
to Florida, E-grant verifying your AmeriCorps member status, and proof of need
if your funding request is over $1,000.

‍AmeriCorps Member Verification: You will need to upload your E-Grants to
confirm that you are an active AmeriCorps member.

‍Proof of Need: If your funding request is over $1,000 documentation is
required. For example, a letter from a landlord about your rent increase; a
hospital bill; a repair bill/invoice, etc
‍

The table below provides a list of documents you can use for identity and
residency. Please ensure you have a clear copy of one item from List A OR one
item from both List B and List C.
‍


[LIST A]
FLORIDA STATE RESIDENCY & IDENTITY DOCUMENTS


[LIST B]
IDENTITY DOCUMENTS


[LIST C]
RESIDENCY DOCUMENTS

 * Florida Identification Card showing your full name and Florida address
 * Florida Driver License showing your full name and Florida address
 * Utility bill showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Cell phone bill or internet bill showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Insurance statement showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Bank statement showing your full name and Florida address 
 * 2021 or 2022 tax return showing your full name and Florida address 
 * Paystub from employer showing your full name and your Florida address 
 * None. I am going to select one option each from List B and List C

 * Any State or Country Identification Card showing your full name 
   
 * Any State Driver's License showing full name
   
 * Any government issued card showing your full name
   
 * Passport showing your full name
   
 * Birth certificate showing your full name
   
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A 
   

Signed and dated letter* stating the full name and phone number of the person
writing the letter from the following entities: 
 * Landlord acknowledging your Florida  residency 
 * Employer acknowledging your Florida residency
   
 * A representative from your place of worship acknowledging your Florida
   residency 
   
 * None. I am going to select one option from List A
   

*You may use this letter template for this application.


THERE ARE MULTIPLE AMERICORPS MEMBERS LIVING AT MY ADDRESS. HOW SHOULD WE
APPLY? 



Each AmeriCorps member should submit their own application that includes their
own funding request for their own emergency expense.

IF I HELP SOMEONE COMPLETE AN APPLICATION, WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED TO SHARE
WITH THEM?



Please give all applicants their Submission ID and tell them to write it down
and/or take a photo and save it somewhere. This number is very important to
track the status of their application.

HOW DO I UPDATE MY INFORMATION OR CORRECT AN ERROR AFTER I SUBMIT MY
APPLICATION?



If you need to update or correct an error on your application after it has been
submitted, please submit a new application with your updated information.

IS THERE AN APPEAL PROCESS IF AFTER I APPLY I DO NOT RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID FROM
THE VOLUNTEER FLORIDA MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND? 



Due to the anticipated high number of applications, there will not be an appeal
process. 

WHAT HAPPENS IF I SUBMIT A DUPLICATE APPLICATION BY MISTAKE? ARE WE THEN
DISQUALIFIED AS A RESULT? 



If you submit multiple applications by mistake, Scholar Fund will be able to
identify that multiple applications were submitted and will review the
application that conveys the higher need. They may also contact applicants via
phone or text if they detect application issues. 

I SUBMITTED MY APPLICATION, BUT HAVEN’T HEARD BACK YET. WHEN WILL I FIND OUT IF
I’VE BEEN APPROVED?



Applications will begin to be reviewed on a weekly basis starting early January
2024. Decisions will go out weekly starting January 22, 2024 to the email
address linked to your account and via text message. You may look up the status
of your application at any time by logging back into the application portal.
Please be patient as we are reviewing applications.

HOW MUCH ARE PAYMENTS? 



Payments are up to $1,500. If your funding request is over $1,000 proof of need
is required. For example, a letter from a landlord about your rent increase; a
hospital bill; a repair bill/invoice, etc.
‍
You can receive the money as a check or ACH, which is a direct deposit into your
bank account.

IS THIS A ONE-TIME PAYMENT? 



Eligible applicants are only able to receive a one-time payment. 

WHEN WILL I GET MY PAYMENT?



Payments will be released to the community in weekly intervals starting the week
of January 22, 2024.  Checks mailed may take longer to receive and we expect
everyone will receive payment within 14 days after you have been given your
award notice.

HOW CAN I RECEIVE PAYMENTS? 



There are two options for receiving payments: 
Check*

 * 7-14 days after you have been notified of an award. 
 * Mail via postal service to the mailing address you provided. 
 * *Physical checks are void after 90 days.

Direct deposit

 * 2-5 days after you have been notified of an award.
 * Transfer to the direct deposit info you provided. 

CAN I HAVE MY PAYMENT SENT TO A DIFFERENT ADDRESS FROM MY RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS?



Yes. Residence address is used to show residency in Florida State. A mailing
address could be a P.O. box or any address where you receive mail and/or feel
more comfortable receiving payment, as long as the address is within Florida
State.

IF APPROVED, CAN I CHANGE MY FORM OF PAYMENT?



Yes, you can change your form of payment after you have been approved. Please
contact Scholar Fund at (206) 558-6115 or at payments@------.org with your name,
submission ID, and what form of payment you would prefer.

DO I HAVE TO PAY THIS MONEY BACK? WILL THIS IMPACT MY TAXES?



When you receive payments for over $600 from a third-party, like Scholar Fund,
the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires you to report this on your taxes. If
approved, Scholar Fund will be providing you with a 1099 Form for your 2024
taxes. ‍

IF I AM AWARDED OVER $600, HOW WILL I RECEIVE MY 1099 FORM FOR MY 2024 TAXES?



Regardless of your payment type, applicants who were awarded over $600 will
receive a digital 1099 Form to the email address provided in the application by
the end of January 2025.

IS THE INFORMATION I PROVIDE IN THE APPLICATION CONFIDENTIAL? 



The nonprofit organization Scholar Fund does not voluntarily share your data
with government entities, including Florida State. Scholar Fund is responsible
for collecting the personal information you voluntarily submit on the online
application for the Volunteer Florida Member Assistance Fund. To help prevent
unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the correct use of
information, Scholar Fund has instituted appropriate physical, electronic, and
managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information they collect.

‍You can learn more about the Scholar Fund comprehensive Privacy Policy here
(English only). 

IS MY INFORMATION SAFE?



Personal information will never be voluntarily shared with your landlord, your
employer, or any government agency including U.S. Immigration and Customs
Enforcement, ICE, other law enforcement, or any other agency. All information is
stored securely in an encrypted format so it cannot be accessed.

According to our contract with America's Service Commissions (ASC), the only
people with access to an applicant’s personal information are Scholar Fund, the
community organization that manages the fund). We will not share your
information with anyone else. But if there is a legal subpoena, we may be
legally required to release personal information. It’s unlikely that this would
happen, but not impossible.

WHY AM I BEING ASKED DEMOGRAPHIC QUESTIONS? WILL MY ANSWERS AFFECT MY
ELIGIBILITY?



Demographic questions are asked to better understand who we are serving with the
Volunteer Florida Member Assistance Fund. Your answers will have no effect on
your eligibility, and you can choose not to disclose any demographic
information. The information you provide will never be shared with Florida or
any other government agency with your name attached to it.

HOW WILL THE VOLUNTEER FLORIDA MEMBER ASSISTANCE FUND APPLICATION PROCESS
PREVENT FRAUD? 



In order to identify fraud, avoid duplicates, and maintain disbursement limits,
Scholar Fund has developed several mechanisms to screen and check applicants to
spot discrepancies, which includes a thorough application review process, spam
filters, and address verification. They may also contact applicants via phone or
text if they detect application issues. 

WHAT DO I DO IF I DISCOVER THAT AN APPLICANT HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR MORE THAN ONE
APPLICATION?



If you discover that an applicant has been approved and/or funded multiple
times, please notify Scholar Fund at (206) 558-6115 or support@------.org. If
applicants apply using different names or slightly different information, it
makes deduplication difficult. However, we can stop payment if it has not been
cashed.

The Massachusetts Service Alliance Member Assistance Fund is a collaborative
program with America's Service Commissions (ASC).  This program provides direct
cash assistance of up to $500 for eligible AmeriCorps members living and serving
in Massachusetts.  The Fund is designed to assist with emergency financial needs
occurring within the 2024-25 program year that threaten a member’s ability to
continue their service term.

Site Map
 * Eligibility
 * How to Apply
 * Application Assistance
 * Required Documents

 * FAQ
 * Privacy Policy
 * Terms of Service

Contact us

Need to report something not working correctly? Have questions about payments?
Please contact us.

Text us
(206) 558-6144

Call us
(206) 558-6144

Email us
support@ameraid.org
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Submit a form.
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