Being disabled is expensive. We’re here to help.
Squeaky Wheel Community Microgrants are one-time $250 relief payments for disabled people facing financial hardship that can be used for small but crucial expenses like medication, accessibility tools, transportation, or a phone bill.
While we wish we could fund every request, our budget covers about two microgrants each month, so recipients are chosen at random from all eligible applications.
Who can apply
You can apply if you:
- Self-identify as disabled, chronically ill, Deaf, neurodivergent, or Mad. No diagnosis or proof is required.
- Are experiencing financial hardship and need help with a specific expense
- Are 18 or older
- Live in the United States
How it works
- Apply using the form below. It takes about 5 minutes. You can apply once per calendar month.
- Selection happens after each month ends. We randomly choose recipients from that month’s eligible applications. Most months we have enough budget for two recipients.
- Notification: If you’re selected, we’ll email you within 10 days after the month ends. We can’t contact everyone who isn’t selected, but you’re welcome to apply again next month.
- Payment is sent by PayPal or Zelle within 1 week of confirming your details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to prove my disability or send receipts?
No. We ask you to confirm in the form that you meet the eligibility requirements.
Can I apply again if I’m not selected?
Yes, once each calendar month. If you submit more than one application in the same month, you will be disqualified automatically.
Can I apply again after receiving a microgrant?
No, recipients are limited to one microgrant. This helps us reach more people.
Will this affect my disability benefits?
Programs like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, ODSP, and provincial disability assistance have different rules about one-time payments. If you’re unsure, check with your caseworker or a benefits counselor before accepting. We cannot provide benefits advice.
What happens to my information?
Only the Squeaky Wheel Media team members who run the microgrant program see your application. We never sell, share, or publish it. At the end of the form, you can opt-in or opt-out of future Squeaky Wheel emails.
Is it taxable?
We can’t give tax advice. If you have questions, check with a tax professional.
How can I help fund more microgrants?
Every donation to Squeaky Wheel Media helps us say yes to more people. Donate here.
I still have questions.
If your question isn’t answered here, please reach out to us through our contact page.