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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Stony Brook University Hardship Fund?
The Hardship Fund is a program available to assist eligible faculty and staff who are experiencing a personal financial emergency and who have exhausted all other avenues for obtaining assistance. Learn more about the Hardship Fund here.
Who administers the Hardship Fund?
What are the eligibility criteria for the Hardship Fund?
Please see the "Eligibility" section here.
Is the Hardship Fund confidential?
Your application information is kept private through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and the Stony Brook Foundation. The review committee does not have access to your identifying information.
Where does the funding come from?
Through presidential, employee, and community donations to the Hardship Fund.
How can I donate to the Hardship Fund?
Please click here to learn how to donate.
I want to apply for the Hardship Fund. What do I do first?
Contact the EAP at 631-632-6085 and request an appointment.
How does the application process work?
Please click here to learn about how the application process works.
Where do I get the application form?
The form is available online or at the EAP office.
Is there an application deadline?
No, applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
What is the maximum amount that can be approved?
The maximum amount approved is up to $599.
If I am approved, can I have the check made out to me?
The check(s) will be made out to a third party vendor for a bill or bills that you owe. This might be your mortgage company, landlord, electricity bill, etc.
When will I receive the check?

If you are approved, you will receive a phone call from the EAP notifying you of approval.

Next you will receive a call from Stony Brook Foundation Office indicating that the check is ready to be picked up. The University disburses checks on Wednesday and Friday. You will need to show your ID at the Stony Brook Foundation office and sign for the check. You will then submit the check to the company to be paid.

What should I do if I don't qualify for funds?

The EAP Office can offer guidance with additional resources or you may access these resources through the "I Want Help With" section on the EAP website.