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The CUP Fund Application form serves as a vital resource for Starbucks partners facing significant financial hardships due to unexpected catastrophic circumstances. Established in 1999, the Caring Unites Partners (CUP) Fund provides a safety net for partners in need, offering potential assistance of up to $1,000 to help cover expenses arising from events like illness, natural disasters, or the loss of a family member. To ensure a smooth application process, partners are encouraged to explore other available resources, such as health coverage and the employee assistance program, before applying. The application itself requires detailed information, including personal circumstances, any financial documentation, and a clear outline of how the requested funds will be utilized. Confidentiality is maintained throughout the review process, which is completed by the Benefits Department within three business days. Notably, contributions to the CUP Fund are solely funded by partner donations and fundraising efforts, ensuring the program's sustainment. All partners are encouraged to participate in supporting each other by contributing, though assistance is available regardless of whether an individual has contributed. Through this system, Starbucks partners can seek the help they need during some of life's most challenging moments.

Cup Fund Application Example

CUP Fund Guidelines (U.S.)

In 1999, Starbucks Coffee Company and a group of partners initiated a program that enables partners to help other partners in times of financial need – the Caring Unites Partners Fund. CUP is funded by partner contributions and fund raising activities, and administered by Starbucks.

CUP Fund is a safety net for partners who are experiencing significant immediate hardship because of catastrophic circumstances outside their control. Assistance may include referrals to Starbucks benefit and employee assistance programs or to community resources. Partners with the greatest and most immediate need are considered for financial assistance of up to $1,000.

OVERVIEW

CUP is a program helping Starbucks partners in times of significant and immediate need. Situations that can result in a partner needing assistance include, but are not limited to, illness or injury, death, natural disaster, or other catastrophic circumstances. All partners are eligible to apply for assistance upon hire. You need not contribute to the Fund in order to request assistance.

Contributions to the Fund

CUP Fund is supported solely by partner contributions and fund raising efforts. You can help ensure the long-term availability of the CUP Fund by contributing to it yourself. Sign up for payroll deduction by filling out a pledge form found in new-hire paperwork and also on Starbucks Online, the Partner Portal and at http://LifeAt.sbux.com. You can also send donations to CUP Fund at mail stop S-HR3, in the form of a check made payable to Starbucks Coffee Company—CUP Fund. Donations are not tax deductible.

REQUESTING ASSISTANCE

Availability of Other Resources

Before applying for CUP Fund assistance you should use available resources such as:

•the employee assistance program at 1-800-682-0364 (includes legal advice, financial planning, community resources, and counseling services)

•health coverage

•vacation time and sick pay

•disability income benefits (call Starbucks Benefits Center at 1-877-SBUXBEN to see if you are eligible)

•family or community resources

•other financial resources including a 401(k) loan and sale of stock

Application Process

Each application will be treated with confidentiality and carefully documented and screened. To apply, complete an application form. The application is available on Starbucks Online, the Partner Portal and at http://LifeAt.sbux.com. You can also ask your manager or Partner Resources manager for a form.

Once the application is received, the Benefits Department will contact you within three business days to obtain additional information required to assess your need. Benefits may also contact your manager to review your current work performance. We may also need to access personal information in partner resources records.

Criteria for Distribution

The CUP Fund is intended to help you when

•catastrophic circumstance occurs outside your control and

•you have sudden and unexpected financial responsibilities as a result and

•you do not have sufficient resources to meet your responsibilities.

The list below outlines the type of financial needs that may be eligible for assistance. It is intended as a guide and is not intended to be all-inclusive.

•Portion of out of pocket medical expenses only in the case a payment plan has been established or grant would provide substantial relief

•Loss of your income because you are ill, injured, or are unable to work and there is no other wage replacement available

•Travel expenses to visit a seriously ill family member* or to attend the funeral of a family member*

•Basic funeral expenses of a family member* when you and your family do not have enough resources including payments from life insurance

•To establish or re-establish a habitable and safe residence when your home is damaged or lost due to natural disaster or unforeseen circumstances

•Loss of income for the primary wage earner in your household (your spouse/domestic partner or family member) when they are unable to work due to illness, injury, natural disaster or similar catastrophic event (e.g. fire), or when needed to care for an ill family member* and they don’t have other financial resources or any type of wage replacement

*Family member is defined as: parent, brother, sister, daughter, son, husband, wife, domestic partner, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, stepparents, stepchild, grandparent, grandchild.

Other Considerations

The long-term viability of the Fund is important to partners. Therefore, when assessing your request the Benefits Department will consider:

•measures you took to protect yourself against and/or to minimize your loss

•resources you have explored prior to requesting CUP Fund assistance

•whether assistance will provide ample relief

•alternatives to your request that may be available to assist you with your immediate need

Exclusions

The list below is used as a guide and is not intended to be all-inclusive. Funds from the CUP Fund will not be available for things such as:

•Routine living expenses (including car repairs or other transportation issues)

•Payment of traffic or other court related fines

•Reduced income due to a variance in your scheduled hours

•Other personal debts such as income tax, child support, credit card debt, tuition, etc.

•Loss of or damage to your personal property that does not impact your safety, housing, and ability to meet your monthly expenses

•Financial assistance that you are not obligated to repay

•Services that you are not obligated to pay for

•Elective services (e.g. cosmetic procedures, fertility treatments)

Questions

Call the CUP Fund at 1-888-796-JAVA, ext. 8CUPS

Caring Unites Partners Fund Application (U.S.)

The first step in requesting financial assistance from the CUP Fund is to read the program guidelines. If you feel your request falls within the guidelines, complete and return this confidential application. Directions about how to send in this form are at the end of the application. Once received, the Benefits Department will contact you within three business days.

General Partner Information

Name:Date:

Partner number:

 

 

 

 

 

Cell phone:

 

______

Store number/department:

 

 

 

 

 

Home phone:

 

 

Current address:

 

_

 

Work/Store phone:

 

 

City: ___________________________________

Job Position: ___________________________

State:

 

Zip: __________

________

Most recent hire date: ___________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Manager’s name:

 

_

 

Manager’s phone #:

_____________

Initial Eligibility for CUP Fund consideration

1)Partners must be in good standing with Starbucks in order to meet initial eligibility requirements for CUP Fund Assistance. Generally speaking, this means that the applicant’s current performance must be at a “meets expectations” level or higher. By signing this application, you agree and understand that we may obtain employment information in order to consider your application for CUP Fund assistance.

2)You have not received any other grant(s) from the CUP Fund within the last three years.

3)You do not have savings, stock options or SIP shares available as a resource.

4)Payroll garnishments may affect your eligibility for a grant.

If available, please have your current manager complete the following information: (Not required prior to sending in application)

For applicant’s manager use only:

Please select from the below ratings for the above applicant’s current performance.

□Partner exceeds expectations

□Partner meets expectations

□Partner needs improvement/on an action plan

□Partner has received a corrective action in the last 90 days

Comments:__________________________________________________________________________________

Completed by: ________________________ Partner #: ______________

Position: ___________________

Additional Required Information

Phone Number:_____________

Signature: ____________________________________________

March 2008 CUP Fund application, page 1 of 4

If your employment status meets initial eligibility guidelines, we will review the information you provide in response to the following questions – including personal information, financial data and details about the specific event that is triggering this request – to make a determination on your CUP Fund application. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any purpose other than in conjunction with this application for CUP Fund benefits.

Current Situation

1. Please describe the current situation that is causing a financial need:

______

______________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

2.Date of occurrence:

REQUIRED:

Provide supporting documentation when applicable. Documentation may include but is not limited to:

•Medical payment plan

•Police Report

•Eviction Notice

•If applying for housing assistance, a rental agreement or written statement from a landlord indicating move in date, deposit required and ongoing monthly rent amount will be required prior to assistance grant.

3.Do you have other resources available to you? (e.g. Life insurance, renter’s, auto or homeowner’s insurance, health coverage including Medicaid, and community services, etc.)

 

 

 

______

 

4.

What is the amount you are requesting from the CUP Fund? $

_____________

5.

Specifically, how do you plan to use these funds?

 

 

 

______________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

CUP Fund application, page 2 of 4

Financial Information

Please complete the following to the best of your ability so that we can better understand your financial need.

1. Are the funds you are requesting for: (CIRCLE ONE)

Yourself

A family member

A combination

2.Are you financially responsible for anyone besides yourself?

YES/NO

If yes, please explain.

3.On average, how much do you bring home (after all deductions), from each Starbucks

check? $

____

How much do you bring home per week in tips? $___________

4.Is your Starbucks job your only source of income?

YES/NO

If not, please detail other sources and income as follows:

Spouse or domestic partner monthly income:_______________________________

Other employment/2nd job: (Estimate monthly income):______________________

Child Support or Community Aid: ________________________________________

Any other members of same household with income: ________________________

5.Do you have a savings account YES/NO

If so, what’s the balance?

 

 

 

 

 

6. Please detail your regular monthly expenses:

 

 

 

 

rent/mortgage: $

combined utilities: $

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

car payment: $

 

 

 

 

gasoline:$_____________________

car insurance: $

cell phone:$_______________

groceries: $

 

 

 

child care: $

 

 

other:

 

 

 

 

 

Other Information

1.How did you find out about the CUP Fund?

2.

Have you ever applied for CUP Fund assistance before?

______

 

If so, when and what was the amount? __________________________________________

March 2008 CUP Fund application, page 3 of 4

Acknowledgment

I represent and acknowledge that the above information is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and has been provided in conjunction with my application for CUP Fund benefits. I understand the CUP Fund Guidelines and I also understand that the allocation of CUP funds is determined by priority of the situation, the availability of funds and the sole discretion of the CUP Fund staff.

Applicant signature

Date

Please send completed form along with related supporting documentation to: CUP Fund c/o Benefits Department

Starbucks Coffee Company

2401 Utah Ave S, ms S-HR3 Seattle, WA 98134

You may also send it via confidential fax at (206) 318-7812.

The Benefits Department will contact you within three business days of receiving the application for further information. If you have questions, please call 888-796-JAVA, ext. 8CUPS.

For CUP Fund Office Use Only:

Notes:_____________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

□Pended for additional information or supporting documentation :_____________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

Date Pended: _____________________

Income:

________________________

Requested:

______________________

Expenses:

________________________

Grant:

______________________

Previous Grants: ______________________

Date:

______________________

Stock Available:_______________________

Category:

______________________

March 2008 CUP Fund application, page 4 of 4

Get Cup Fund Application PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Fund Purpose The Caring Unites Partners Fund (CUP) assists Starbucks partners in times of significant and immediate financial need due to unforeseen circumstances.
Eligibility All partners can apply for assistance upon hire; previous contributions to the fund are not required for eligibility.
Financial Assistance Limit Eligible partners may receive financial assistance up to $1,000 for specific needs arising from catastrophic events.
Application Process To apply, partners must complete a confidential application form, which can be obtained via the Partner Portal or through their manager.
Confidentiality Assurance All applications are treated with confidentiality and will be carefully documented and screened by the Benefits Department.
Distribution Criteria Financial assistance is considered when partners face sudden financial responsibilities due to circumstances beyond their control, and lack sufficient resources.
Exclusions Funds cannot be used for routine living expenses, traffic fines, elective services, or personal debts not impacting safety or housing.

Guidelines on Utilizing Cup Fund Application

After completing the CUP Fund Application, you can submit your form following the detailed instructions provided for submission. The Benefits Department aims to review applications promptly and will reach out within three business days for further information.

  1. Begin by reading the CUP Fund program guidelines to ensure your situation qualifies for assistance.
  2. Gather your personal information, including your name, partner number, contact details, current address, job position, and manager's information.
  3. Provide your initial eligibility confirmation, marking your standing with Starbucks and confirming you have not received other grants within the last three years.
  4. Complete the current situation section, detailing the financial need and the date of occurrence. Be ready to include supporting documentation.
  5. Indicate any other resources available to you that may assist your situation.
  6. Specify the amount you are requesting from the CUP Fund and how you plan to use these funds.
  7. Fill out the financial information section, including your income from Starbucks and any other sources. Provide details on your expenses.
  8. Answer how you learned about the CUP Fund and whether you have applied previously, including dates and amounts.
  9. Review your application for accuracy, ensuring all sections are complete.
  10. Submit your completed application according to the provided instructions at the end of the form.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the CUP Fund and who is eligible to apply?

The Caring Unites Partners (CUP) Fund is a program designed to assist Starbucks partners facing significant financial hardships due to unforeseen circumstances. Examples of such situations include illness, injury, death, or natural disasters. All partners are eligible to apply as soon as they are hired, regardless of whether they have contributed to the Fund.

How can I contribute to the CUP Fund?

All contributions to the CUP Fund come from partners. You can support this vital program by enrolling in payroll deduction through a pledge form, which is available in your new-hire paperwork or on Starbucks Online and the Partner Portal. Alternatively, donations can be sent via check, made payable to the CUP Fund, to the address mail stop S-HR3. Remember, these donations are not tax-deductible.

What should I do before applying for CUP Fund assistance?

Before you apply, it's important to explore other resources you might have available. These may include the employee assistance program, your health coverage, vacation or sick pay, disability benefits, and community resources. Checking these options can help you determine your eligibility and ensure you’re seeking the right support.

How do I go about applying for assistance?

The application process is straightforward. Begin by completing the confidential application form, which you can find on Starbucks Online, the Partner Portal, or by requesting a copy from your manager. Once you submit your application, the Benefits Department will contact you within three business days to discuss your situation and gather any additional information needed for the assessment.

What are the criteria for receiving assistance?

The CUP Fund is intended for partners facing financial responsibilities due to catastrophic events outside of their control. To be considered, you should have unexpected expenses or loss of income resulting from such circumstances. The Benefits Department will assess your situation by looking at the measures you took to protect yourself, other resources you've explored, and whether the requested assistance will provide sufficient relief.

Are there any exclusions to what the CUP Fund covers?

Yes, there are specific exclusions. The CUP Fund does not provide support for routine living expenses, personal debts, traffic fines, or elective services. Understanding what is excluded will help you better frame your request and avoid applying for assistance that is not available.

What types of financial needs are generally accepted for assistance?

Some common needs that may qualify for CUP Fund assistance include out-of-pocket medical expenses, travel expenses to visit seriously ill family members, basic funeral costs for family, and costs to establish safe housing after a disaster. While this list is helpful, it is not exhaustive. If in doubt, it’s best to reach out for guidance.

How is my personal information handled during the application process?

Your application and any personal information shared will be kept confidential. The Benefits Department will only use this information to assess your eligibility for support from the CUP Fund. Additionally, they may contact your manager to review your work performance if needed.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once your application is received, a member of the Benefits Department will reach out to you within three business days. They will collect any additional information required to better understand your situation and decide on your application. Be prepared to provide documentation related to your financial need as requested.

How can I contact CUP Fund for further questions?

If you have more questions, you can reach out to the CUP Fund at 1-888-796-JAVA, extension 8CUPS. They can provide additional information and support as you navigate the application process.

Common mistakes

Filling out the CUP Fund Application form can be a crucial step for partners seeking essential financial assistance. However, several common mistakes can hinder the process. First, some applicants forget to provide complete personal information. Missing essential details such as the partner number or accurate phone numbers can delay the review of an application significantly.

Second, applicants often overlook the need for supporting documentation. Properly filed applications should include necessary documents like medical payment plans or eviction notices. Without these papers, the Benefits Department may not be able to assess the application adequately.

Another frequent mistake involves misunderstanding eligibility criteria. Applicants must be in good standing with Starbucks and cannot have received any CUP Fund grants in the past three years. Many mistakenly believe these criteria do not apply to them, resulting in rejected applications.

Fourth, some partners fail to specify the exact amount they are requesting from the CUP Fund. Leaving this section blank can lead to confusion and may even cause the application to be deemed incomplete.

Additionally, applicants sometimes neglect to explain how they plan to use the requested funds. This explanation is vital as it helps the Benefits Department understand the financial situation better and assess the urgent need.

Misunderstanding the timeline is another common oversight. Partners often expect immediate assistance without understanding that the review process can take up to three business days after submission. Patience is essential in this process.

Also, failing to disclose all available financial resources represents a significant mistake. If applicants do not list other incomes or savings, they risk appearing less needy than they may be. Transparency is crucial to receiving the appropriate level of support.

Another issue arises when partners ignore sections requiring detailed financial information. For example, not accurately reporting monthly expenses can lead to misjudgments about the applicant's financial status. Comprehensive financial disclosures are necessary for the review process.

Furthermore, some partners provide vague descriptions of their current situation. A detailed explanation is essential to demonstrate the hardship and justify the request for funds. Clarity helps paint a better picture for those reviewing the application.

Finally, a lack of communication with managers can be detrimental. Some applicants forget to seek validation or advice from their managers about their performance ratings before submitting their forms. Manager involvement can strengthen an application and minimize unnecessary delays.

Documents used along the form

The CUP Fund Application is an essential step for partners seeking assistance, but it is often accompanied by various other forms and documents needed to complete the process smoothly. Providing the right documentation can help the Benefits Department assess the need accurately and efficiently.

  • CUP Fund Guidelines: This document outlines the criteria and processes involved in applying for CUP Fund assistance. It provides necessary context on eligibility and how the fund operates.
  • Pledge Form: This form is used by partners who wish to contribute to the CUP Fund through payroll deductions. It can usually be found in new-hire paperwork or online resources.
  • Manager Recommendation Form: A form that the partner's direct supervisor fills out, offering insights into the partner’s performance and eligibility status. This helps to gauge if the applicant meets the “good standing” requirement.
  • Supporting Documentation: This includes any relevant documents to substantiate the financial need, such as medical payment plans, eviction notices, or police reports, making the case stronger for assistance.
  • Financial Disclosure Form: Some applications might require a detailed outline of the partner's current financial situation, including income, expenses, and other resources. This helps create a complete picture of the applicant's financial need.
  • Benefit Verification Documents: These documents verify any other financial assistance or benefits the partner may be receiving, such as disability income or health coverage. This information is crucial for determining eligibility.
  • Authorization to Release Information: This form allows the Benefits Department to obtain necessary information from relevant sources, such as employment records or medical information, ensuring a fair assessment of the application.
  • Community Resources List: A document that provides information on available community resources and assistance programs that applicants might consider before applying for CUP Fund assistance.

Having these forms and documents ready can facilitate a more efficient review process. It helps partners receive timely support during difficult times, reinforcing the commitment to assist those in need within the Starbucks community.

Similar forms

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Similar to the CUP Fund Application, the EAP provides support to employees facing personal challenges. Both programs aim to assist individuals in times of need, offering resources for counseling, financial planning, and crisis management.

  • Health Insurance Claim Form: Like the CUP Fund, the health insurance claim form is utilized to request financial assistance for unexpected medical expenses. Both require personal details and documentation to verify the need for assistance.

  • Hardship Withdrawal Request for 401(k): This document serves a similar purpose, allowing employees access to their retirement funds during significant financial difficulties. Both applications necessitate a description of the hardship and proof of circumstances leading to the request.

  • Disability Benefits Application: Individuals may submit this application when they cannot work due to illness or injury. Like the CUP Fund, applicants must provide proof of their condition and how it impacts their financial status.

  • Unemployment Benefits Claim: This document helps individuals seeking assistance after losing their job. Both applications require demonstrating financial need and unexpected circumstances affecting income.

  • Charitable Organization Grant Application: Similar to the CUP Fund, many charitable organizations offer grants to individuals experiencing hardship. Both processes often involve providing personal information and details about the financial challenges faced.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the CUP Fund Application form, it is essential to approach the task carefully. Here are some things to do and avoid:

  • Do read the program guidelines thoroughly before completing the application.
  • Don't skip any required fields; ensure all information is provided.
  • Do gather all necessary documentation to support your request.
  • Don't wait too long to submit the application; act promptly while your need is immediate.
  • Do provide honest and accurate information about your financial situation.
  • Don't assume that previous applications or circumstances will affect your current eligibility.
  • Do follow the submission instructions carefully to ensure your application is reviewed.

Misconceptions

  • Anyone Can Apply for Assistance Without Constraints: Many people believe that only those who have made contributions to the CUP Fund can request assistance. In reality, any partner can apply for support regardless of their contributions to the fund.
  • All Requests for Assistance Will Be Approved: Some may think that submitting an application guarantees financial assistance. However, applications are reviewed based on specific criteria, and not all requests will be granted.
  • Assistance is Available for Any Financial Need: There is a misconception that CUP Fund assistance covers any type of financial issue. In truth, the fund is intended specifically for catastrophic circumstances like illness, injury, or natural disasters and does not apply to routine living expenses or personal debts.
  • Documentation is Not Required When Applying: Many assume that applications can be submitted without any supporting documents. However, proper documentation is crucial for verifying the situation and justifying the request for assistance.
  • The Application Process is Lengthy and Complicated: There is a belief that the application process is cumbersome and difficult. In fact, the application form is straightforward, and the support team aims to contact applicants promptly for any additional information.
  • Applications Remain Confidential but are Always Disclosed to Managers: Some applicants worry that their information will be shared with managers without consent. The application process prioritizes confidentiality, and personal information is only accessed for the purpose of evaluating the request.

Key takeaways

  • Read the Guidelines: Before filling out the application form, it is crucial to read the program guidelines to understand eligibility and requirements for assistance.
  • Confidential Process: All information provided in the application will be kept confidential. This fosters an environment of trust during the request for assistance.
  • Immediate Assistance Available: Financial assistance can be up to $1,000 and is intended for partners facing significant immediate hardship due to circumstances outside their control.
  • Initial Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible, partners must be in good standing with Starbucks and have not received assistance from the CUP Fund in the last three years.
  • Explore Other Resources: Before applying, partners should maximize other available resources, such as health coverage or community services.
  • Complete Application Thoroughly: Ensure all sections of the application are accurately filled out. Include supporting documentation where required, as it is essential for assessment.
  • Understand Criteria for Distribution: Assistance is primarily aimed at emergencies caused by issues such as illness, natural disasters, or loss of income, among others.
  • Follow Up: After submitting your application, expect to hear back from the Benefits Department within three business days for any additional needed information.

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