PAY PROMISE: Families will score $500 monthly payments from ‘innovative’ program – but you must check your zip code to get the cash
According to THE SUN, Residents in one state could benefit from a new initiative offering monthly payments, depending on where they live. The direct payment program aims to support families facing financial hardship, especially those affected by the pandemic.
California’s Long Beach Pledge Guaranteed Income Pilot
California residents living in specific zip codes may qualify for the Long Beach Pledge Guaranteed Income Pilot, which was expanded in January. According to its website, the program was launched in 2022 as part of the Long Beach Recovery Act, a measure created to fund economic and public health initiatives for residents, workers, and businesses in the Long Beach area impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also read: LAST CHANCE: Final Hours to Claim One-Time Payment from $1.8M Settlement – Easy 3-Step Form
The Long Beach Recovery Act allocated $51 million in total, with $2 million specifically directed to the original Long Beach Pledge Guaranteed Income Program. The program initially provided financial assistance to single-earner households in the 90813 zip code.
Program Expansion and Additional Funding
Following an emergency proclamation addressing homelessness in Long Beach, an additional $1.2 million was earmarked to expand the guaranteed income program. The added funding allowed 200 more families to qualify for monthly payments, including households with multiple income earners.
The goal of the expansion is to invest in innovative solutions that prevent families from becoming homeless. The new funding broadened the program’s reach to five additional zip codes.
Also read: FESS UP: Allure apologizes after retailer overcharges ‘handful of members by $35’ for service
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Long Beach Pledge Guaranteed Income Pilot, applicants must reside in one of the following zip codes: 90802, 90804, 90805, 90806, or 90810. These areas were identified as being particularly hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
In addition to living in one of the eligible zip codes, applicants must have a household with children or dependents under the age of 18. The income level of prospective recipients must also be at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.
Monthly Payments for Qualified Recipients
The 200 selected households will receive monthly payments of $500 throughout 2024, totaling $6,000 over the course of the year. Recipients can choose from at least four different payment methods for receiving their funds.
Also read: Albuquerque City Council Rejects Proposal to Limit Short-Term Rentals
Future Application Opportunities
While applications for the current round have closed, residents should stay informed about future opportunities when the program reopens. Applications can be submitted through the Long Beach Pledge website when available.
Other Guaranteed Income Programs
In addition to the Long Beach Pledge, other guaranteed income programs exist across the country, offering free financial assistance to those who qualify. For example, women in one area can receive up to $1,000 a month for three years with no strings attached if they meet specific criteria. Meanwhile, a controversial program in Texas has been revived, offering the possibility of $500 monthly payments.
