Fill Out Your Project Deserve Application Form

What is the Project Deserve Application form?

The Project Deserve Application form is designed to assist current Westar Energy customers who need help paying their utility bills. This program specifically caters to those facing financial difficulties, allowing eligible individuals to apply for assistance based on their circumstances.

Who is eligible to apply for assistance through this program?

To qualify for assistance, a member of the household must either be 65 years or older or receive permanent disability income from SSI or SSD. Additionally, applicants must meet the income guidelines set forth by the program to ensure that assistance is provided to those in genuine need.

How can I submit my application?

You can submit your application by mail to Center of Hope Inc. at P.O. Box 3237, Wichita, KS 67201. Alternatively, you can fax it to (316) 267-7778, email it to ProjectDeserve@centerofhopeinc.org, or register online at centerofhopeinc.org. Choose the method that works best for you.

What documents do I need to include with my application?

For your application to be considered, you must provide copies of specific documents. These include current verification of all household income for the last 30 days, a copy of your current utility bill, and one other utility or phone bill in your name at the same address. Remember, only send copies, as originals will not be returned and will be discarded after review.

How long does it take to hear back after submitting my application?

You will receive a written notification regarding your application status within four weeks of submission. Make sure you keep an eye on your mailbox for this important information.

What if my application is incomplete?

Applications that are incomplete or lack necessary verification will not be processed. Such applications will be destroyed. Therefore, double-check your submission to ensure all required information and documentation are included to avoid any delays.

What happens if I am approved for assistance?

If your application is approved, you will receive assistance with the amount due on your account, up to a maximum of $200 at the time of review. This financial assistance is intended to help you manage your utility bill effectively.

Can I apply more than once?

Assistance from the Project Deserve program is available only once in a rolling 12-month period. Ensure you meet the criteria and understand that this is a one-time offering within that timeframe to those demonstrating financial need.

Is it necessary to continue paying my utility bill while waiting for assistance?

Yes, it is important to continue making regular payments to your energy provider. Receiving Project Deserve benefits does not replace your responsibility to pay your utility bill. Stay proactive with your payments while your application is in review.

When applying for assistance through the Project DESERVE Application, many individuals unknowingly make mistakes that could hinder their chances of receiving much-needed support. Understanding these common pitfalls is crucial for a successful application process. Below are ten frequent mistakes to avoid.

Many applicants leave out essential information such as the names and ages of all household members. This omission can create confusion and delay the review process. It is important to list every member living in your home, as this information helps determine eligibility based on household size.

Another common error occurs when individuals provide an incomplete or incorrect Social Security number. This number serves as a key identifier and is vital for verifying income and other related details. Ensure that you double-check this information to avoid potential complications.

Failing to include required documentation is another mistake many applicants make. Written verification of income sources, utility bills, and other necessary documents must accompany your application. Applicants often forget to add these crucial pieces, leading to automatic disqualification.

Some people misinterpret the income guidelines. It's essential to note that the listed amounts are not suggestions but firm thresholds. If your household earnings exceed these limits, your application may be denied, even if you demonstrate financial hardship.

When listing monthly expenditures, precision is key. Underestimating or neglecting significant itemized expenses can mislead reviewers about your financial situation. Always be thorough and truthful in detailing your monthly costs to paint an accurate picture of your financial need.

Inserting original documents instead of copies is another error that many make. The guidelines explicitly state that only copies should be sent since originals will not be returned. Millions of vital documents are destroyed each year simply because applicants do not follow this instruction.

If you have lost your job or experienced an unforeseen increase in expenses, clearly explaining these circumstances is vital. Many applicants select “Other” as a reason for assistance but fail to elaborate. Providing context can significantly enhance your application.

Some individuals neglect to review their application before submission. Simple spelling mistakes, missing signatures, or incomplete dates could result in your application being categorized as incomplete. Take the time to carefully review every detail before sending.

Lastly, ignoring the timeline for notification can lead to unnecessary concern. The application states it may take up to four weeks to receive feedback. Patience is essential; constant checks on the application’s status may not yield any new information.

By being aware of these common mistakes, applicants can approach the Project DESERVE Application process with greater confidence and clarity. Clear information and proper documentation will improve the chances of receiving assistance during challenging times.

When applying for assistance through the Project Deserve program, certain additional forms and documents may be required to support your application. Below is a list of common documents that applicants often need to include alongside the Project Deserve Application form. Each document serves a specific purpose in verifying eligibility and financial need.

• Proof of Income: This document verifies all sources of income for all household members for the past 30 days. Acceptable forms include paycheck stubs, Social Security statements, and letters from unemployment offices.
• Current Utility Bill: A recent utility bill must be submitted to confirm your address and establish the account holder’s name. This bill helps determine the amount of assistance that may be available.
• Additional Utility or Phone Bill: An additional bill in your name serves to further confirm your residency at the address you provided. It could be a phone bill or another type of utility statement.
• Income Verification Letter: Official letters from your employer, Social Security, or any relevant agency validating your income can greatly strengthen your application by providing clear proof of your financial situation.
• Identification Documents: A copy of a government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or state ID, verifies your identity and helps confirm your household details.
• Additional Information Explanation: If you selected "Other" on the application regarding your need for assistance, providing a short explanation or additional documentation clarifying your circumstances can support your request.

Including these additional documents can help streamline the application process and increase the likelihood of receiving the necessary assistance promptly. Make sure to keep copies for your records, as original documents will not be returned. Thoroughness in your application will assist in a timely review of your need for help with your utility bills.

• Rental Assistance Application: Similar to the Project Deserve Application, this form assists tenants who face financial hardships and need help with rent payments. Applicants must provide proof of income and may submit the form by mail, fax, or online.

• Food Assistance Program Application: Much like the Project Deserve form, this application helps individuals and families access food resources. It requires details about household income and living conditions, along with proof of need.

• Utility Assistance Program Application: This form is closely related, providing support for individuals struggling with utility bills. Applicants must share information about their financial situation, utility services, and provide verification documents.

• Medical Assistance Application: Just like the Project Deserve Application, this document seeks to help individuals cover healthcare costs. It requires personal information, income details, and proof of medical needs.

• LIHEAP Application (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program): This application is similar in purpose, offering assistance with heating and cooling costs. Applicants must meet income guidelines and provide documentation to support their claims.

• Child Care Assistance Application: This form supports families needing financial help for child care expenses. It requires information about household income and the number of children needing care.

• Transportation Assistance Application: Analogous to the Project Deserve form, this document aids individuals who need help covering transportation costs. It also involves verifying income and detailing financial hardships.

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Application: This application helps families with erratic income or expenses. Like the Project Deserve form, it requires comprehensive income documentation and outlines the specific assistance needed.

Things You Should Do:

• Read the entire application form carefully to understand all requirements.
• Provide a current utility bill and another bill in your name as verification.
• List all members of your household accurately, including their ages and roles.
• Submit your application through the preferred method, such as email or mail, to ensure it reaches the center.
• Keep copies of all documents submitted for your own records.

Things You Shouldn’t Do:

• Do not send original documents as they will not be returned.
• Avoid submitting incomplete applications; they will be discarded.
• Do not forget to include all sources of income; incomplete information may disqualify you.
• Never delay in making regular payments to your energy provider, even while your application is pending.
• Refrain from using any legal jargon or complicated terms; ensure your responses are clear and understandable.

• Misconception 1: The Project Deserve Application is only for elderly individuals.

  This program assists a variety of applicants, not just those who are 65 years or older. While seniors do qualify, the program also serves individuals with permanent disabilities receiving SSI or SSD income. It’s important to understand that age is just one aspect of eligibility.

• Misconception 2: Completing the application guarantees financial assistance.

  Submitting an application does not automatically ensure that one will receive aid. The program evaluates applications based on demonstrated financial need and the availability of funds. Only after the review process will recipients know if they qualify for assistance.

• Misconception 3: All household members' income is irrelevant to the application.

  In fact, the application requires complete household income information. This includes income from all members living in the household, regardless of age or relationship. Omitting any income can result in an incomplete application and potential denial of assistance.

• Misconception 4: You must submit original documents for verification.

  The program specifically states not to send original documents. Only copies are required. This ensures that documents are not lost and provides peace of mind to applicants, knowing their originals will not be destroyed during the review process.

When filling out the Project Deserve Application form, keep these key points in mind:

• Eligibility Requirements: Ensure at least one household member qualifies based on age (65 years or older) or disability income.
• Documentation is Crucial: Provide all required documents, including proof of income and utility bills. Only send copies, as originals will not be returned.
• Complete Household Income: List all sources of income for everyone in the household. This includes employment, government benefits, and any other financial support.
• Submit Your Application Correctly: Choose from multiple submission methods: by fax, email, or mail to the appropriate address. Ensure that your application is complete to avoid delays.
• Notification Timeline: Be patient after submission. Expect a written response within four weeks regarding your application status.