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In tough times, the following AFT+ Member Benefits through Union Plus offer tools to help stretch your household budget. In addition members who participate in certain AFT+ benefits may be eligible for direct financial assistance in the event of work interruptions.
For more information and eligibility see www.unionplus.org/hardship.
Credit and budget counseling: Nonprofit consumer credit counseling staff can help members prioritize bills and look at their budgets with an eye to stretching existing resources.
Legal program: The basic legal program offers members a free half-hour consultation with an attorney by phone. More complex matters, like bankruptcy, are discounted by 25 percent.
Save My Home hotline: These are consumer credit counselors who are HUD-certified to offer help and advice on how to negotiate with your mortgage lender to avoid foreclosure. The service is absolutely free and confidential.
Free prescription discount card: www.unionplus.org/benefits/health/prescriptions.
Free college: This benefit program is available for members and their families. It offers multiple online associate degree programs and several certificate programs from Eastern Gateway Community College. Applicants must complete a financial aid request as part of their application; however, even if they receive no financial aid, there will be no cost for tuition, fees or e-texts. www.unionplusfreecollege.org
Job Loss Benefits Tied to Program Participation: Please see the Union Plus hardship website for eligibility requirements for assistance available to members who use the benefits listed below.
Credit card: Members who have an AFT/Union Plus credit card may be eligible for a $300 job loss grant. In addition, there is a program hotline for members to check eligibility for other hardship payment benefits: 800-551- 2873.
Mortgage: If you have a mortgage through the Union Plus Mortgage Company or if you have a mortgage through one of the previous program providers, you may be eligible to apply for zero interest loans that can make your mortgage payment for up to six months as well as a $1,000 one-time grant.
Personal loan: Members who have a Union Plus personal loan and experience job loss may be eligible for a one-time $300 grant.