Fund-Use and Proof-of-Need Policy
All cases submitted for community funding must demonstrate legitimate financial need. This policy establishes what BTF community rounds can and cannot fund, and the proof requirements that ensure accountability.
Eligible Funding Categories
Emergency and Essential Needs
- Vehicle repairs essential for work or medical access
- Medical copays and out-of-pocket emergency costs
- Utility disconnection prevention
- Rent or mortgage shortfalls to prevent eviction
- Funeral and burial costs
- Emergency childcare costs
- Work-essential equipment
Financial Foundation Investments
- Life insurance first-year premiums
- Seed funding for a first investment account for the Keep It 1000 journey
- Professional licensing fees required for employment
- Housing security deposits after displacement
- Reentry costs for formerly incarcerated members
Ineligible Categories
BTF community rounds are designed for emergency needs and financial foundation investments. The following categories are not eligible for funding:
- Discretionary purchases
- Existing long-term debt such as credit card balances or student loans
- Gambling losses
- Any request that cannot be documented with proof of need and proof of use
Edge cases are reviewed by a queue manager who makes discretionary decisions based on community guidelines and the principle of mutual aid.
Proof Requirements
Proof of need required before funding: Invoices, bills, estimates, or other documentation showing the financial need and amount requested.
Proof of fund use required after disbursement: Receipts, payment confirmations, or screenshots showing funds were used as stated in the case submission.
Deadlines: Category A members: 3 days. Category B members: 7 days.
Acceptable proof: Clear, legible documentation that shows amount and recipient.
Consequences of non-submission: First offense results in a compliance violation. Second offense may result in suspension at founder discretion.
Coordination Fee
Approved cases require payment of a coordination fee before rounds are scheduled. The coordination fee is an administrative platform fee that covers round coordination, proof verification, and disbursement tracking. In limited circumstances BTF may waive or reduce the coordination fee at its sole discretion.