VISTA Member B enefits

1. VISTA Member Benefits living large on a small budget….

2. HEALTHCARE • Provided by…

3. The Basics • You are covered by the AmeriCorps Health Benefits Program • This is not a health insurance policy, but it does provide healthcare benefits • You are covered from your first day of service until your last day of service

4. Howit’s different • It only covers you - there are no benefits for family members or dependents • No coverage for pre-existing conditions • You can have another insurance plan, in addition to your health support

5. Benefits • Prescriptions are usually covered in full • For doctors’ visits your co-pay is usually $5 • For emergency room visits your co-pay is usually $25 • (Disclaimer: this does not include lab tests, x-rays, etc. although these may be covered)

6. Logistics • You should receive your health benefits card within your first month of service • For health coverage before you receive your card, call and they can email you one • Seven Corners doesn’t have a direct line for healthcare providers to call.

7. For More Information • Find out which healthcare providers are covered at americorps.sevencorners.com • Get more information about health benefit policies at vistacampus.org • Read the “Explanation of Benefits” document that is emailed to you to find out what is covered

8. Food Support • Provided by… The Minnesota Department of Human Services

9. The Basics • Apply through the Department of Human Services in the county where you live • Apply by mail, by appointment, by visiting the DHS office, or (in some counties) online • How much you receive in food support will be determined on an individual basis

10. What to Bring • A completed application for food support • Your “Service Verification Letter” • A copy of your lease, or certificate of rent paid • Proof of your utilities costs • A current bank statement

11. Logistics • To move away from the social stigma of “food stamps,” Minnesota now uses an “Electronic Benefits Transfer” system, and individuals receive an EBT card (like a credit card) • Six months after applying you will receive a “6-month review.” You need to turn this in! • For more info, go to dhs.state.mn.us

12. Student Loan Forbearance • Granted by… Your student loan holder!

13. The Basics • Student loan forbearance is only available for federal student loans • You can print a forbearance request on My.Americorps.Gov • You must contact your loan holder in order to apply for and receive loan forbearance

14. Interest • During forbearance you don’t have to make loan payments, but interest still accrues • At the end of service, apply to be reimbursed for interest by having your loan holder fill out an “AmeriCorps Interest Accrual Request Form” • Certain loans can be deferred instead of put in forbearance – see the VISTA handbook for info

15. For More Information • Look at the VISTA Handbook, specifically Chapter 6 at vistacampus.org • Contact your loan holder to see if you are eligible for loan forbearance

16. Other Benefits • Provided by… Many organizations throughout MN!

17. Services • Reduced-cost (income-based) gym memberships from the YMCA and YWCA • $5 worth of free produce every time you use your EBT card at a Twin Cities Farmers’ Market • Low-cost vet care through organizations like Kindest Cut and The Pet Project

18. Services • Free tax services and financial advice through AccountAbility Minnesota • Free help with bike repair, and an option to earn a bike through Cycles for Change • And many more!

19. When in doubt, search for a low- cost option… …or ask if discounts are available!