Eligibility
Find out if you qualify — in about two minutes.
Our requirements are intentionally simple. Review the criteria below, then use the eligibility checker to get an instant preliminary result.
General requirements
- Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application
- Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or lawfully present resident
- Provide a valid government-issued photo identification
- Demonstrate financial need or a qualifying hardship
- Submit complete and truthful supporting documentation
- Have not received a RickOwen.Inc grant within the past 12 months
Documents to prepare
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Proof of address dated within the last 60 days
- Most recent tax return or two recent pay stubs
- Documentation of the hardship or expense (bills, notices, estimates)
- Program-specific documents (enrollment letter, DD-214, business license)
What we cannot fund
- Speculative investments, cryptocurrency, or gambling debts
- Legal fines, court penalties, or restitution payments
- Political campaign or lobbying activity
- Expenses already fully covered by insurance or another grant
Eligibility checker
This is a preliminary self-assessment and not a funding decision.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to apply?
Yes. A one-time 7% processing fee is deducted from the approved grant amount before disbursement. There are no separate application or disbursement fees, and anyone requesting upfront payment on our behalf is not affiliated with us.
How long does a decision take?
Most complete applications receive a decision within 7 to 14 business days. Emergency assistance requests are reviewed within 72 hours.
Does applying affect my credit?
No. Grants are not loans, there is no credit check, and nothing is reported to credit bureaus. Approved funds do not need to be repaid.
Can I apply for more than one program?
You may apply to one program at a time. If another program better fits your situation, our review team may reassign your application.