Blank Cup Fund Application PDF Form

What is the CUP Fund and who can apply for it?

The CUP Fund, or Caring Unites Partners Fund, is a program designed to assist Starbucks partners facing significant financial hardship due to catastrophic circumstances. This could include situations like illness, injury, death, or natural disasters. All partners are eligible to apply for assistance as soon as they are hired, regardless of whether they have contributed to the fund.

How do I apply for assistance from the CUP Fund?

To apply for assistance, first, review the CUP Fund guidelines to ensure your situation qualifies. Then, complete the application form, which can be found on Starbucks Online, the Partner Portal, or at http://LifeAt.sbux.com. You can also request a form from your manager. Once your application is submitted, the Benefits Department will reach out to you within three business days to gather any additional information needed to evaluate your request.

What types of financial needs are eligible for assistance?

Eligible financial needs can include out-of-pocket medical expenses (if a payment plan is in place), loss of income due to illness or injury, travel expenses for visiting a seriously ill family member, basic funeral expenses for a family member, and costs associated with establishing a safe residence after a disaster. The fund aims to help with sudden and unexpected financial responsibilities that arise from circumstances beyond your control.

Are there any exclusions for what the CUP Fund can cover?

Yes, there are specific exclusions. The CUP Fund cannot be used for routine living expenses, payment of fines, personal debts, or loss of personal property that does not impact safety or housing. Additionally, funds cannot be used for elective services or any financial assistance that does not require repayment.

What should I do before applying for CUP Fund assistance?

Before applying, it is important to explore other available resources. This includes utilizing the employee assistance program, health coverage, vacation or sick pay, and community resources. You may also want to consider other financial options, like a 401(k) loan, to ensure you have exhausted all possibilities before seeking assistance from the CUP Fund.

How is my application evaluated?

Your application will be treated confidentially and assessed based on your current situation, financial data, and the specific event prompting your request. The Benefits Department may also review your work performance and personal information from partner resources records. They will consider the measures you took to mitigate your loss and whether assistance will provide sufficient relief for your immediate needs.

1. Incomplete Personal Information: Failing to fill out all required fields, such as name, partner number, or contact information, can lead to delays in processing the application. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.

2. Insufficient Documentation: Not providing the necessary supporting documents can hinder the review process. Always attach relevant documents, such as medical payment plans or eviction notices, as specified in the application.

3. Misunderstanding Eligibility Criteria: Some applicants may not fully grasp the eligibility requirements. It’s crucial to ensure that you meet the conditions outlined in the guidelines, such as being in good standing with Starbucks.

4. Vague Descriptions of Financial Need: Providing unclear or overly brief descriptions of the financial situation can lead to misunderstandings. Take time to clearly explain the circumstances causing the financial need.

5. Ignoring Other Available Resources: Not indicating other resources available, such as insurance or community services, may affect the application’s outcome. Be transparent about all financial resources you have explored prior to applying.

The CUP Fund Application form is a vital document for Starbucks partners seeking financial assistance during tough times. Alongside this application, several other forms and documents are often needed to ensure a smooth process. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose, helping to clarify the partner's situation and verify their eligibility for assistance.

• Employee Assistance Program Information: This document outlines the various resources available to partners, including counseling services, financial planning, and legal advice. It is crucial for applicants to explore these options before applying for CUP Fund assistance.
• Medical Payment Plan Documentation: If the application involves medical expenses, partners may need to provide proof of a payment plan. This documentation helps verify the financial need related to medical costs.
• Police Report: In cases where the financial need arises from theft or other criminal activities, a police report may be required. This report serves as official documentation of the incident.
• Eviction Notice: If the partner is facing eviction, they must provide a copy of the eviction notice. This document is essential for assessing housing-related financial needs.
• Rental Agreement: When applying for housing assistance, a rental agreement or a statement from the landlord is necessary. This shows the ongoing financial obligations related to housing.
• Proof of Income: Partners may need to submit pay stubs or other income verification documents. This information helps assess their financial situation and need for assistance.
• Financial Statement: A detailed statement of monthly expenses is often required. This helps the Benefits Department understand the partner's financial obligations and overall situation.
• Previous CUP Fund Application Records: If the partner has applied for assistance before, they may need to provide details of previous applications. This helps track the partner's history with the fund.
• Manager's Recommendation: A recommendation or evaluation from the partner's manager may be requested. This provides insight into the partner's work performance and eligibility for assistance.

Gathering these documents ensures that the application process is thorough and efficient. Each piece of information contributes to a clearer understanding of the partner's situation, ultimately aiding in the determination of their eligibility for CUP Fund assistance.

• Grant Application Form: Similar to the CUP Fund Application, a grant application form collects personal and financial information to assess eligibility for financial assistance. Both forms require applicants to provide details about their current situation and the specific need for funds.
• Emergency Assistance Application: This document serves to request urgent financial help, much like the CUP Fund Application. Both require supporting documentation to verify the applicant's financial hardship and the circumstances surrounding it.
• Financial Aid Application: A financial aid application, often used by educational institutions, asks for information about the applicant's financial situation. Like the CUP Fund Application, it aims to determine eligibility for assistance based on need.
• Disaster Relief Application: This application is used to request aid after a natural disaster. Similar to the CUP Fund Application, it focuses on immediate financial needs resulting from catastrophic events.
• Medical Assistance Application: This document is for individuals seeking financial help for medical expenses. Both applications require detailed financial information and documentation to assess eligibility for assistance.
• Nonprofit Assistance Request Form: Nonprofits often have forms for individuals seeking help. Like the CUP Fund Application, these forms require personal details and an explanation of the financial need, ensuring the organization can evaluate the request effectively.

When filling out the CUP Fund Application form, consider these essential dos and don’ts:

• Do read the CUP Fund guidelines thoroughly before starting your application.
• Do provide accurate and complete personal information to ensure prompt processing.
• Do include supporting documentation to substantiate your financial need.
• Do be honest about your financial situation and resources available to you.
• Do follow the submission instructions carefully to avoid delays.

• Don’t leave any sections of the application blank; incomplete forms may be rejected.
• Don’t exaggerate your financial need; honesty is crucial for your application.
• Don’t apply if you have received CUP Fund assistance within the last three years.
• Don’t forget to check your eligibility against the initial requirements.
• Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you have questions about the process.

Misconception 1: You must contribute to the CUP Fund to receive assistance.

This is not true. All partners are eligible to apply for assistance regardless of whether they have made contributions to the fund. The CUP Fund is designed to support partners in need, and contributions are not a prerequisite for receiving help.

Misconception 2: The CUP Fund only helps with medical expenses.

While medical expenses are one of the eligible needs, the CUP Fund assists with a variety of situations. These include loss of income due to illness, travel expenses for family emergencies, and basic funeral costs, among others. The fund aims to address a broad range of catastrophic circumstances.

Misconception 3: Applying for assistance is a lengthy and complicated process.

The application process is straightforward. Partners simply need to fill out the application form and submit it. The Benefits Department will reach out within three business days to gather any additional information needed. Confidentiality is maintained throughout the process.

Misconception 4: You can only receive CUP Fund assistance once every few years.

While partners cannot receive multiple grants within a three-year period, this does not mean they are limited to one-time assistance. Each application is evaluated on its own merits, and partners can apply for assistance again if they meet the eligibility criteria and have not received help within the specified timeframe.

Filling out and utilizing the CUP Fund Application form is a crucial step for partners seeking financial assistance. Below are key takeaways to guide you through the process:

• Understand the Purpose: The CUP Fund is designed to assist partners facing immediate financial hardship due to catastrophic circumstances beyond their control.
• Eligibility Criteria: All partners are eligible to apply upon hire, regardless of their contributions to the fund. However, applicants must be in good standing with Starbucks.
• Explore Other Resources: Before applying, utilize available resources such as the employee assistance program, health coverage, and community support to address your financial needs.
• Confidential Application: Complete the application form accurately and return it as directed. Your information will be treated confidentially and reviewed by the Benefits Department.
• Timely Response: After submission, expect to be contacted within three business days for any additional information needed to assess your request.
• Criteria for Assistance: Assistance is available for specific needs, such as medical expenses, funeral costs, and housing needs due to natural disasters or unforeseen circumstances.
• Exclusions: Be aware that the fund cannot be used for routine living expenses, personal debts, or elective services that do not impact your immediate safety or financial responsibilities.

By keeping these takeaways in mind, partners can navigate the application process with clarity and confidence, ensuring that they receive the support they need during challenging times.