Sliding Scale

TIER 1

  • I own one or more properties

  • I own one or more cars

  • I have access to medical care, and can pay out of pocket for medical expenses not covered by insurance

  • I am employed in a high-paying role, or I can afford to not be employed

  • I have substantial savings and/or generational wealth

  • I can afford to go on regular vacations

  • I never worry about meeting basic needs

  • I conceived without fertility treatment, or did fertility treatment without financial stress

  • Having a baby will not create any strain on my finances

  • I can easily afford the baby products I want

TIER 2

  • I rent safe and comfortable housing

  • I have a car

  • I have some access to medical care, and can sometimes afford out-of-pocket medical expenses

  • I am employed at a living wage

  • I have limited financial savings and/or generational wealth

  • I have to actively save to afford to take time off, or take a vacation

  • I occasionally stress about meeting my basic needs, but sometimes have expendable income

  • Fertility treatment would be a financial burden

  • Starting a family means cutting back

  • I will be relying on finding second-hand things for my baby

TIER 3

  • I have unstable housing or subsidized housing

  • I do not have a car

  • I am unemployed, paid minimum wage, or government assistance

  • I face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, and cannot access any out-of-pocket providers

  • I have no savings or generational wealth

  • I cannot afford to take a vacation or take time off work

  • I frequently stress about meeting my basic needs and often don’t meet them

  • I cannot access fertility treatment

  • Having a baby is going to be a significant financial challenge

  • I will be relying on finding free things for my baby

This sliding scale was adapted from Alexis J. Cunningfolk and more information about their original Green Bottle Method can be found at their website (https://www.wortsandcunning.com/blog/sliding-scale). Taken from their description, “The sliding scale is a tool that allows for a product or service to be obtained at multiple price points based on the circumstances of the purchaser… (it) represents the idea that financial resources, including income, are not and should not be the only determining factor in whether or not someone can access services/care/etc. Service providers and institutions usually offer sliding scale because there is a commitment to serving individuals and/or communities that would otherwise not be able to afford the services… For a sliding scale to work it relies on the principles of truthfulness, respect for complexity, and accountability… There are a limited amount slots for products, services, and classes offered at the middle and lower end of the scale. Please be mindful that if you purchase a price at the lowest end of the scale when you can truthfully afford the higher ticket prices, you are limiting access to those who truly need the gift of financial flexibility.”

Check out the webpage for more detail about how to find your place on the scale. I do not ask for income verification, I take you at your word.