2023 Nisqually Indian Tribe General Welfare Program
ANNUAL ENROLLMENT NOVEMBER 1st - JANUARY 5th, 2023.
The Nisqually General Welfare Program is an optional program allowing Nisqually Tribal Members to take advantage of General Welfare tax exemptions up to $7,500 per quarter. These general welfare funds are not in addition to your per capita distributions. Rather, the amount a member receives in general welfare funds shall reduce the amount of per capita funds received. An application is required to participate in the program for any enrolled Adult Nisqually Tribal Member (Age 18 and above). Please note, for current participants you must sign and submit the renewal letter that was mailed directly to you in November if you wish to renew participation for the 2023 Plan Year at your current election amounts. Approved General Welfare Program applications will be in effect for February 2023 - January 2024 tribal distributions and may not be changed.
Below is a list of common eligible general welfare expenses allowed by the program. A complete list of eligible expenses is available in the Nisqually General Welfare Program Guide.
- Mortgage/Rent Payments
- Utilities
- Childcare Expenses
- Healthcare Expenses
- Transportation Stipend - $1,000 per month
- Nutrition Stipend - based on household size
The Tribe's program is administered by FSA TPA, LLC. A provider payment form will be required for any direct provider payments such as rent or mortgage.
NEW PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
As mentioned above, you may now elect to receive up to a maximum of $7,500 per quarter to be reported as non-taxable benefits.
Benefit Card: A benefit card can now be used with the standard GWA Program for most health, utility, education, and childcare providers for eligible expenses versus having to pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement (reference Program Benefit Guide). The benefit card cannot be used to withdraw cash from your benefit account; it can only be used to pay for eligible program expenses.
Elder Supplemental Income Benefit: Elders age 55 and above can elect to participate in the Elder Supplemental Income Benefit. These general welfare funds are not in addition to your per capita distributions. Rather, the amount a member receives in general welfare funds shall reduce the amount of per capita funds received.
If elected, eligible Elders will receive a supplemental income stipend in the amount of $2,500 per month or as a lump sum quarterly payment of $7,500. The stipend will also be considered a tax-free benefit under the GWA Program. Supplemental Income payments will be distributed to eligible participants via direct deposit or check.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Deadline: January 5th, 2022
Fax: (360) 486-9549
E-Mail: generalwelfare@nisqually-nsn.gov
QUESTIONS? CALL US.
Linda Rodriguez, General Welfare Coordinator
4820 She-Nah-Num Dr S.E.
Olympia, WA 98513
Phone: (360) 413-3020
Fax: (360) 486-9546
E-Mail: generalwelfare@nisqually-nsn.gov
Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm PST
For the flyer, please click here. (Deadline Extended to January 5th, 2023)
