PAY PROMISE: Families will score $500 monthly payments from ‘innovative’ program – but you must check your zip code to get the cash
Residents of California living in certain zip codes have the opportunity to benefit from the expanded Long Beach Pledge Guaranteed Income Pilot, a program aimed at supporting families facing financial hardship. This initiative is part of the Long Beach Recovery Act, established in 2022 to address economic and public health impacts caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Program Expansion and Funding
Initially funded with $2 million from the Long Beach Recovery Act’s $51 million budget, the Long Beach Pledge Guaranteed Income Program focused on single-earning households in the 90813 zip code. Following an emergency proclamation regarding homelessness, the program received an additional $1.2 million, allowing it to expand its reach.
The expanded program now includes 200 new recipients and extends eligibility to families with multiple income earners. The aim is to prevent homelessness and provide financial stability to families in need.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the expanded Long Beach Pledge Guaranteed Income Pilot, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residence: Live in one of the five designated zip codes: 90802, 90804, 90805, 90806, or 90810. These areas were identified as significantly impacted during the pandemic.
- Household: Have children or dependents under 18 years old.
- Income: Household income must be at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.
Eligible families will receive monthly payments of $500, totaling $6,000 over 12 months in 2024.
Application and Payment Information
Although the application period for the current round of payments has closed, residents should stay informed about future opportunities. Applications for the next round will be available through the Long Beach Pledge website.
Recipients will have the option to choose from at least four payment methods for convenient access to funds.
Other Guaranteed Income Opportunities
In addition to the Long Beach program, other guaranteed income initiatives are available:
- Women in a specific area could receive up to $1,000 a month for three years, based on certain criteria.
- A controversial program in Texas has been revived, offering potential $500 monthly payments.
These programs represent growing efforts to provide financial assistance and stability to individuals and families across the U.S.
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