Funded by WA Dream Coalition

Washington Excluded Workers Benefits Fund

A Safety Net Pilot Program for Undocumented Workers

The Washington Excluded Workers Benefits Fund (WEWBF) is a pioneering 10-week pilot program dedicated to providing financial support and conducting qualitative research among Washington's undocumented workers. Managed by Scholar Fund and funded by the Washington Dream Coalition, this initiative offers a crucial lifeline to those ineligible for unemployment benefits due to their immigration status. Our mission is to collect impactful data and personal stories to advocate for a comprehensive social safety net in Washington State, ensuring that no worker stands alone.

Applications are due December 1, 2023, 11:59 p.m. Pacific.

How It Works

Our Goals

Our program is not merely a financial stopgap; it's a beacon for systemic transformation. We're setting out to demonstrate the practicality and positive impacts of providing unemployment insurance to undocumented workers. This isn't just about temporary relief—it's about reimagining a framework where every individual has the economic support they need to thrive, irrespective of their immigration status.

Establish Feasibility

We aim to prove that providing unemployment insurance to undocumented workers is both practical and effective, serving as a model for potential state-level adoption.

Advocate for Systemic Change

The pilot is designed to be a catalyst for legislation, using collected data to support the case for inclusive, state-wide unemployment insurance policies.

Promote Equity and Trust

Our initiative focuses on creating a low-barrier, trust-building application process that ensures equitable access to unemployment benefits for all eligible undocumented workers.

Farmworker wearing a hat and mask holding a crate of produce in a field

Eligibility Criteria

Are you a vital part of the workforce but excluded from unemployment benefits? The Washington Excluded Workers Benefits Fund might be for you. Check if you meet the following conditions to apply:

Immigration Status: You must be ineligible to receive unemployment benefits due to your immigration status.

Identification Number: You need to have a valid Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Wage Verification: Proof of your wages and unemployment status is required to confirm your eligibility.

State Residency: Applicants must provide evidence of residency in Washington State.

Weekly Surveys: All participants are expected to complete a weekly survey to claim their benefits.

Listening Sessions: Engage in structured listening sessions that may include focus groups or interviews before, during, and after the benefits distribution period.

We welcome those who contribute to the diverse labor sectors of Washington, with a special focus on seasonal farmworkers, to participate in this vital program. If you believe you fit these criteria, we encourage you to apply. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive safety net for all workers.

What is the timeline?

Keep informed about the Washington Excluded Workers Benefits Fund's milestones by tracking our developments across each pivotal phase.

Program Design and Launch

Initial efforts focus on designing the program and creating outreach materials. The application process kicks off in November 2023, inviting eligible individuals to apply.

Benefits Distribution

This phase marks the active period of financial support, where participants receive weekly benefits and contribute to the program through surveys and listening sessions.

Analysis and Reporting

After the distribution period concludes, data analysis begins, culminating in a comprehensive report that will shape advocacy and inform policy decisions.

Navigating Your Application: A Step-by-Step Guide

Embark on your application journey with ease using our comprehensive guide. We've broken down the process into three manageable steps, ensuring that you have all the information needed to apply for unemployment insurance confidently.

If you have any questions regarding your application please email us at support@waworkerbenefits.org or call us directly at (206) 759-5084.

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Step 1

Gather Your Documents

Start by collecting the necessary documents. This may include identification, proof of employment history, and any previous pay stubs. Having these at hand will streamline your application.

graphic of an online application being completed

Step 2

Complete Your Application

With your documents ready, fill out the application form. Be thorough and accurate; your responses will be crucial for the evaluation of your eligibility for unemployment insurance.

graphic of people speaking, shaking hands, and gears to symbolize systems changing

graphic of people speaking, hands shaking, and gears turning to symbolize systems changing

Step 3

Submit and Engage

Submit your completed application and, if selected, be prepared to engage consistently. Active participation is key to maintaining your benefits and staying informed about your insurance status.

Email us at support@waworkerbenefits.org or call at (206) 759-5084 for further assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are unemployment benefits?

Unemployment benefits provide you with temporary income when you lose your job through no fault of your own. The money partly replaces your lost earnings and helps you pay expenses while looking for new work. Currently in Washington State, certain undocumented workers are not eligible for this social safety net.

Does the applicant have to be currently not working?

Yes, applicants should be unemployed at the time of the program, which is scheduled to begin in January 2024. If the applicant is a seasonal worker who is expected to be unemployed, they can apply.

I haven’t been working since 2021, would I qualify to apply?

No, applicants must have worked in Washington State during the past 18 months.

What if I worked and was laid off in a different state?

Applicants must have worked in Washington State. Workers in other states are not eligible for this program.

How do I show “proof of employment history" and "previous pay stubs" for applications?

You should upload any of these following documents:

Check Stubs
An employer with:
- Name and Social Security Number
- Beginning date of employment
- Ending date of employment (if applicable)
- The employer's name, address and telephone number
- The total amount of wages earned
W-2 Forms (You must be able to identify the specific time frame covered by the W-2)
1099 Forms (You must be able to identify the specific time frame covered by the 1099)

Can I apply if I'm in the process of getting an ITIN?

No, applicants must have a current valid ITIN at the time of application.

When will I find out if I was approved or denied?

Notifications will go out in January 2024. There is the possibility of additional verification required before acceptance.

What if I’m taking leave from work because of illness or to care for a family member?

Washington State does not take immigration status into account when considering eligibility for the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program. So, if you are seriously ill or caring for someone who is seriously ill, this program may be able to help. Learn more at paidleave.wa.gov or tometiempo.org.

Are my benefits taxable?

Yes.

What if the applicant didn’t do taxes for last year or the following year?

That is not relevant to the eligibility of this program.

How can I get help or ask questions about this program?

If your question is not answered on this page, email us at support@waworkerbenefits.org or call at (206) 759-5084 for further assistance. Our team is available during business hours. If you contact us outside of business hours, we will respond as soon as we can.

What if I worked and was laid off in a different state?

Applicants must have worked in Washington State. Workers in other states are not eligible for this program.

Is the information I provide in the application confidential?

The nonprofit organization Scholar Fund is responsible for collecting the personal information you submit in the eligibility form. Such information that you provide is deemed confidential and will be protected accordingly. The information you provide is yours, and you may make corrections to such data at any time.

You can access Scholar Funds Privacy Policy here (English only).

Is my information safe?

How will the Washington Excluded Workers Benefit Fund prevent fraud?

In order to reduce fraud and avoid duplicates, 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. Scholar Fund personnel may also contact applicants via phone or text if application issues are detected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility criteria for the Best Starts for Kids Child Care Wage Boost Pilot?

To be eligible for the program, applicants must:
1) Provide child care services within King County
2) Be licensed by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and maintain good standing as either a Child Care Center (CCC) or Family Child Care (FCC) provider

If you are eligible for WCCC, you cannot receive the Best Starts Subsidy. We understand that some of this information is sensitive and where possible, have made these questions optional. We identify questions where your information will never be shared with King County or other government agencies connected to your name.

Best Starts is committed to expanding access for families who have experienced disproportionate barriers in accessing child care. Some of the questions we ask help us better understand who we are serving with the child care subsidy.For more information about our privacy policy, see: Privacy Policy (scholarfundwa.org)

Why do you ask about my activities? Is there an activity requirement to receive the Best Starts Subsidy?

There is no activity requirement for Best Starts for Kids Child Care Subsidy. We ask about your activities to assess your family’s eligibility for Working Connections. If your family is eligible for Working Connections, you must use that subsidy.

Do I or my children need to be U.S. citizens or legal residents to receive funding?

No. There is no citizenship or legal residency requirement to apply.
The following families, who meet all other eligibility requirements, are encouraged to apply:

Families with one or more undocumented members
Refugees
Asylum seekers
COFA migrants
DACA recipients

I do not currently have permanent housing. Am I able to apply if I do not have a mailing address in King County?

Yes. Eligible applicants without permanent housing are encouraged to apply. We will offer other ways to verify that your family lives in King County.

If I am on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), am I still eligible?

Yes. Because those who receive SSI or SSDI are not eligible for Washington State Working Connections Child Care Subsidy (WCCC), you are eligible for the Best Starts Child Care Subsidy, provided your household meets all other eligibility requirements.

I receive a subsidy from another program. Can I get this one too?

If you are eligible for or receiving the State’s Working Connections Child Care subsidy, you are not eligible to receive the Best Starts subsidy.
For all other child care funding sources (for example Goodwin Connections, a scholarship from a child care provider etc.), if you are selected for Best Starts for Kids, we will pay the child care provider what we determine to be your rate and the other funding source may pay the balance owed to the provider, if there is any.

What does it mean to be on the waitlist?

Being on the waitlist means that you have submitted your eligibility form for the Best Starts for Kids Child Care Subsidy program, but due to high demand and limited availability, we cannot immediately offer you funding. We will notify you when funding may be available.

How long will I have to wait on the waitlist?

The wait time will vary. We will notify you when funding may be available for your family.

Can I update my eligibility form while on the waitlist?

Yes, if you need to update or correct an error on your eligibility form, please reach out to our Family Access and Support team by call or text at (206) 208-6865 or an email at support@bskchildcare.org

Can my eligibility change while I am on the waitlist?

Your eligibility status may change if there are updates to your family's circumstances or if the program's eligibility criteria change. We recommend reaching out to the Family Access and Support team by call or text at (206) 208-6865 or an email at support@bskchildcare.org if there are significant changes to your family's situation.

How will I be notified when funding becomes available?

We will notify you via email and text message when funding may be available for your child. At that time, you will be invited to submit the full application, requiring verification of your residency and income. Please ensure that your contact information is up-to-date and check your notifications regularly for updates from our team.

Can I apply to other child care assistance programs while on the waitlist?

Yes, we encourage you to explore other child care assistance programs that may be available to your family. Being on the waitlist for our program does not affect your eligibility for other programs.

What can I do to increase my chances of getting off the waitlist sooner?

While we cannot guarantee a specific timeline for getting off the waitlist, you can ensure that your eligibility form and contact information are complete, accurate, and up-to-date. This will help our team contact you as efficiently as possible when funding may be available.

How do I calculate my household size?

For the purposes of this program, your “household” includes the following people:

Yourself
Children under the age of 18 that live with you (regardless of child care need)
18 year old children who live with you and are still in high school; and
Up to one other adult who lives with you and fits one of the following descriptions: a) your spouse, b) your domestic partner, or c) your significant other with whom you have a child.

For the purposes of this program, the following people are not counted in your household size:

Boyfriend, girlfriend or significant other with whom you do NOT have a child
Grandparents or other adult family members who live with you
Children 18 and older who are no longer in high school
Your children’s biological parent, if that parent does not live with you.
Adult dependents
Roommates

We live with multiple families. How should we apply?

Each parent/guardian should submit a separate application for their family.

How do I calculate my gross (pre-tax) monthly income?

Your gross monthly income includes all income, before any deductions or expenses, earned by yourself and up to one other adult who lives with you and fits one of the following descriptions- your spouse, your domestic partner, or your significant other with whom you have a child. Please also include any income from disability, unemployment insurance, child support, alimony etc.

I think I am eligible for the subsidy. If I submit an interest form, will I be guaranteed child care funding?

Because this is a new program, we do not yet know how many families will apply. Submitting an eligibility form will NOT guarantee you receive child care funding. There may be more families interested than we have funding to serve. We will contact you by text and email if you are selected to complete a full application by the end of September 2022.
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The selection process is NOT first-come, first-served. We will be using a lottery system to make selections by the end of September. Eligible applicants not selected in the first round will remain in the selection pool, and as spots become available, will have regular opportunities for selection.

How can I receive payments and how long will it take?

There are four options for receiving payments:

*Physical checks are void after 90 days.
**Physical gift cards are void after 12 months.

If I am selected by the end of September to complete a full application, when might I receive a subsidy?

Those families selected in the first round will likely receive a subsidy that can start November 1st. We will not pay for child care used before the subsidy starts. If you use care before November 1st, you will be responsible for paying for it.

If I am selected, how much funding will I get?

A selected family’s subsidy rate will be calculated by a number of factors, including age of each child needing care, family income and household size. The amount per child will be shared with the family after they have been selected to fully enroll in the program.

Scholar Fund will pay the determined amount directly to the child care provider on a monthly basis. Any part of the bill not covered by the Best Starts Subsidy will be the responsibility of the family.

Are there other options if I am not selected for the Best Starts for Kids Child Care Subsidy?

Eligible applicants who are not invited to complete an application for the subsidy will automatically remain in our selection pool. We anticipate spots opening up over time so it will be possible to be selected months after filling out the eligibility form. If you are not selected, we will send you a list of other resources that may be able to support you with the cost of child care.

I do not have a computer or access to the Internet. Are there other options for me to apply?

Text or call us at 206-208-6865 and someone can help you fill out the application over the phone.

What happens if my household submits a duplicate interest form by mistake? Are we disqualified as a result?

If your household submits multiple eligibility forms by mistake, Scholar Fund (Scholarship Junkies) will be able to identify that multiple applications from the same household were submitted. You will not be disqualified.

Is the information I provide in the application confidential?

Is my information safe?

Scholar Fund deploys appropriate physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the personal information you provide, including to help prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the correct use of personal information. Further, Scholar Fund does not share personal information with third parties except in limited circumstances as outlined in the Scholar Fund Privacy Policy.

When appropriate, Scholar Fund only shares aggregate and anonymized information with third parties so as not to include personally identifying information. For example, Scholar Fund will submit periodic reports to the Best Starts for Kids Child Care Subsidy Program, but such reports will only include your data at an aggregate-level in de-identified format, including ZIP code of residence, service outcomes, and demographic information.

Personal information will only be retained for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected, there is an ongoing legitimate purpose to retain the data (such as contractual obligations or identity verification), or to comply with legal or auditing requirements.