Resources!Valuable materials for GA and Postdocs below.
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GSS Emergency Fund
The GSS offers short-term loans of $2,000 to any graduate student in need. To apply, you can fill out an application.
Eligibility requirements include:
Each loan period is 90 days, and may be extended once, if eligibility requirements are still met, for up to 30 days.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Currently enrolled at the University of Connecticut and will continue to be enrolled through the due date of the loan.
- No University financial hold(s) and has not had loan eligibility revoked by the Office of the Dean of Students.
- No outstanding loans.
- Has not exceeded the limit of one loan request per semester (fall, spring, or summer).
- Has not exceeded the limit of three loan requests per calendar year.
Each loan period is 90 days, and may be extended once, if eligibility requirements are still met, for up to 30 days.
Employee Assistance Program
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Read summary below or check out their website here.
What we do:
Confidentiality exceptions by law: child abuse or neglect, immediate risk of suicide or homicide. Company structure:
Counseling options: face-to-face and online. They make sure that counselors take employee’s insurance. Life care: this specialty referral service is available to employees and their household family members:
Critical incidents: they come on-site, and help people deal with these situations? Help resolve the immediate impact of the critical incident:
Example situation: in another institution, an employee died, and another employee was having trouble figuring out how to react when the employee comes back— what to say, how to react— and they came on site to help them and counsel them through that. AVAILABLE 24/7 |
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Workload Tracker
According to our contract, you cannot be required to work more than the weekly numbers of hours specified in your offer letter. You may access the workload tracking log here, if you wish to download copies of any of the templates. If you have any concerns that you might exceed your workload, contact us immediately and a union representative will reach out to you to discuss how you can remedy this situation.
In the Fall and Spring semesters, breakdown of the weekly hours for each appointment percentage is as follows:
Click here for more information on workload for summer and winter intersession appointments.
In the Fall and Spring semesters, breakdown of the weekly hours for each appointment percentage is as follows:
- 20 hours / week - 100% appointment
- 15 hours / week - 75% appointment
- 10 hours / week - 50% appointment
- 5 hours / week - 25% appointment
Click here for more information on workload for summer and winter intersession appointments.
Childcare Reimbursement
Applications for Summer 2024 child care reimbursements are now open.
Childcare Reimbursement Policies and Procedures, per Article 23 of our Collective Bargaining Agreement, the University annually allots $225,000 to reimburse GAs for childcare expenses at licensed childcare facility or bona fide institutional after school programs.
Applications for Summer 2024 child care reimbursements are open. The application covers the period of May 1, 2024 to May 21, 2024 AND May 22, 2024 to August 22, 2024. You can access instructions for filling out the form, information about eligibility, and a link to the application here.
Please note that Summer applications only cover the period until August 22nd for payroll reasons. The due date for submitting required documentation is September 20, 2024 at 11:59pm EST.
Please note that we require itemized receipts that show the cost of child care for the period covered by the application. If you have any questions about application materials, don't hesitate to email us.
After submission, if you need to make any changes please email us with your request. Duplicate applications will not be accepted.
Applications for Summer 2024 child care reimbursements are open. The application covers the period of May 1, 2024 to May 21, 2024 AND May 22, 2024 to August 22, 2024. You can access instructions for filling out the form, information about eligibility, and a link to the application here.
Please note that Summer applications only cover the period until August 22nd for payroll reasons. The due date for submitting required documentation is September 20, 2024 at 11:59pm EST.
Please note that we require itemized receipts that show the cost of child care for the period covered by the application. If you have any questions about application materials, don't hesitate to email us.
After submission, if you need to make any changes please email us with your request. Duplicate applications will not be accepted.
FAQs
Will all of my childcare expenses be reimbursed? How are reimbursements calculated?
We cannot guarantee full reimbursement for your childcare expenses. Reimbursements are calculated based on the number of GAs/eligible children that apply each cycle. First we establish per cycle amounts given the total amount UConn provides for the academic year. For Spring 2023, we have allotted $90,000. Once apps are in, we track the number of children and total amounts requested for reimbursement. We also verify eligible expenses (see the following FAQs to understand what qualifies). From there we calculate a "per kid rate" (PKR [total cycle amount to allocate/total number of children]). Applicants who spend at or below the per kid rate for one child will receive either the PKR or the amount they requested for reimbursement if less than the PKR. Applicants who have more than one child eligible for reimbursement get up to that PKR amount per child. For example if the PKR is $300 and I have 2 kids and spent more than $600 for child care, I would receive $600. If I have 2 kids and requested $500 in reimbursement, I would get $500. The PKR for Spring 2019 was about $915. It's important to note that this number can be higher or lower for future cycles, depending on the number of applicants.
What ages are covered for reimbursement?
Children through age 5 are eligible for daycare reimbursements. Children below the age of 13 are also eligible for after school care. See below for more details on both:
Do you reimburse GA’s for co-curricular activities?
No. We do not cover expenses for families who elect to enroll their child in activities including, but not limited to, sports club, performance arts, or extra-curricular programs whose primary focus is not to provide child care or educational services.
Do you reimburse expenses related to summer camps?
During the summer months (June-August), day camps for children under the age of 13, and operate between typical business hours Monday-Friday may be eligible for reimbursement. However, we do not reimburse expenses for overnight camps, tuition for summer school, or lodging and board to destination camps. The intent of the reimbursement is to help graduate assistants with the burdensome expenses of regular childcare.
What is a bona fide institutional after school program?
A bona fide institutional after-school program is sponsored by a legitimate organization, including, but not limited to, a school, a community center, church, or non-profit organization, that offers afterschool programs with the intent to fulfill a mission or purpose, e.g. homework help, mentorship, and youth skills development.
Are payments made to a childcare facility outside of the United States qualified for childcare reimbursement?
Yes, HOWEVER, you must provide documented proof that the childcare facility is a bona fide (licensed) institution in that particular country. Documentation must provide proof that it is currently licensed. Examples of documentation could include images/copies of the facility’s childcare license(s) from the issuing entity, receipts of payment with the business’ name, a link to the facility’s secure website, or other miscellaneous pieces of information. Note: A combination of documents may be requested, but we do so acting in good faith to establish that the institution is a bona fide childcare provider in the same manner that we do with domestic institutions.
How will I receive the reimbursement?
Your reimbursement will come from the payroll office. Since this is a payroll reimbursement, taxes will be taken out of the amount reimbursed. Since the union is not directly handling the reimbursement we cannot accept applications after the deadline.
What if the person listed on the receipts is not the GA?
Please make it clear on your application who the UConn GA is and the relationship the person on the receipts is to the GA. We may ask for documentation of stated relationship to the person listed on the receipt.
Still have questions? Email us!
We cannot guarantee full reimbursement for your childcare expenses. Reimbursements are calculated based on the number of GAs/eligible children that apply each cycle. First we establish per cycle amounts given the total amount UConn provides for the academic year. For Spring 2023, we have allotted $90,000. Once apps are in, we track the number of children and total amounts requested for reimbursement. We also verify eligible expenses (see the following FAQs to understand what qualifies). From there we calculate a "per kid rate" (PKR [total cycle amount to allocate/total number of children]). Applicants who spend at or below the per kid rate for one child will receive either the PKR or the amount they requested for reimbursement if less than the PKR. Applicants who have more than one child eligible for reimbursement get up to that PKR amount per child. For example if the PKR is $300 and I have 2 kids and spent more than $600 for child care, I would receive $600. If I have 2 kids and requested $500 in reimbursement, I would get $500. The PKR for Spring 2019 was about $915. It's important to note that this number can be higher or lower for future cycles, depending on the number of applicants.
What ages are covered for reimbursement?
Children through age 5 are eligible for daycare reimbursements. Children below the age of 13 are also eligible for after school care. See below for more details on both:
- Children ages 0-5: At what ages are child dependents eligible for child care/day care reimbursements? Children ages 0-5 are eligible for day care reimbursements at a licensed child care facility. Once a child is of legal age required to attend schooling, they are no longer eligible for daycare. We do NOT reimburse tuition associated with private school for children older than 5. This decision was made in accordance with the General Statutes of Connecticut Title 10-184, et seq.: School Attendance Age Requirements.
- Children ages 6-12: What about after school care? We recognize that not all GA’s work schedules are the typical 9am-5pm. That said, parents should make an effort to identify after school care programs for children under the age of 13 that meet their needs without posing excessive financial burdens. Our reimbursement program may accept after school care for children who are participating in programs that primarily provide childcare or educational benefit, i.e. homework help; see below for co-curricular activities.
Do you reimburse GA’s for co-curricular activities?
No. We do not cover expenses for families who elect to enroll their child in activities including, but not limited to, sports club, performance arts, or extra-curricular programs whose primary focus is not to provide child care or educational services.
Do you reimburse expenses related to summer camps?
During the summer months (June-August), day camps for children under the age of 13, and operate between typical business hours Monday-Friday may be eligible for reimbursement. However, we do not reimburse expenses for overnight camps, tuition for summer school, or lodging and board to destination camps. The intent of the reimbursement is to help graduate assistants with the burdensome expenses of regular childcare.
What is a bona fide institutional after school program?
A bona fide institutional after-school program is sponsored by a legitimate organization, including, but not limited to, a school, a community center, church, or non-profit organization, that offers afterschool programs with the intent to fulfill a mission or purpose, e.g. homework help, mentorship, and youth skills development.
Are payments made to a childcare facility outside of the United States qualified for childcare reimbursement?
Yes, HOWEVER, you must provide documented proof that the childcare facility is a bona fide (licensed) institution in that particular country. Documentation must provide proof that it is currently licensed. Examples of documentation could include images/copies of the facility’s childcare license(s) from the issuing entity, receipts of payment with the business’ name, a link to the facility’s secure website, or other miscellaneous pieces of information. Note: A combination of documents may be requested, but we do so acting in good faith to establish that the institution is a bona fide childcare provider in the same manner that we do with domestic institutions.
How will I receive the reimbursement?
Your reimbursement will come from the payroll office. Since this is a payroll reimbursement, taxes will be taken out of the amount reimbursed. Since the union is not directly handling the reimbursement we cannot accept applications after the deadline.
What if the person listed on the receipts is not the GA?
Please make it clear on your application who the UConn GA is and the relationship the person on the receipts is to the GA. We may ask for documentation of stated relationship to the person listed on the receipt.
Still have questions? Email us!
Food Pantries
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Food Resources in CT
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Housing Resources
Connecticut Fair Housing Center
The Connecticut Fair Housing Center is an excellent initial resource for anyone facing issues related to housing discrimination or unfair rental practices. This organization is dedicated to ensuring that all individuals have equal access to housing opportunities, regardless of race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. They offer valuable guidance, advocacy, and support for those navigating complex housing laws and can provide assistance with filing complaints against discriminatory practices.
Legal Aid Services (Connecticut Legal Services and Greater Hartford Legal Aid)
For individuals seeking legal assistance but facing financial constraints, Connecticut Legal Services and Greater Hartford Legal Aid are vital resources. These organizations provide free or low-cost legal representation and advice to qualifying individuals in a range of matters including housing disputes, family law, and public benefits. Eligibility is typically based on income, so it’s important to check their specific criteria and apply for services if you meet the necessary requirements. Both organizations aim to bridge the gap in access to justice for those who might otherwise be unable to afford legal counsel.
Connecticut Tenants Union
The Connecticut Tenants Union is a valuable resource for tenants seeking support and advice on housing-related issues. They offer guidance on tenant rights, rental agreements, and disputes with landlords. This organization is a great place to turn for practical advice and advocacy in tenant-landlord relationships. They may also provide referrals to other resources or legal services if your situation requires specialized assistance.
UConn Employee Assistance Program
The UConn Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is another key resource for employees seeking support. Their hotline is available for a wide range of personal and professional issues, including legal concerns. The EAP offers confidential assistance and can connect you with legal professionals or other resources that can help address your specific situation. Whether you’re dealing with workplace issues, personal legal matters, or need general support, the EAP can provide referrals and guidance tailored to your needs.
The Connecticut Fair Housing Center is an excellent initial resource for anyone facing issues related to housing discrimination or unfair rental practices. This organization is dedicated to ensuring that all individuals have equal access to housing opportunities, regardless of race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. They offer valuable guidance, advocacy, and support for those navigating complex housing laws and can provide assistance with filing complaints against discriminatory practices.
Legal Aid Services (Connecticut Legal Services and Greater Hartford Legal Aid)
For individuals seeking legal assistance but facing financial constraints, Connecticut Legal Services and Greater Hartford Legal Aid are vital resources. These organizations provide free or low-cost legal representation and advice to qualifying individuals in a range of matters including housing disputes, family law, and public benefits. Eligibility is typically based on income, so it’s important to check their specific criteria and apply for services if you meet the necessary requirements. Both organizations aim to bridge the gap in access to justice for those who might otherwise be unable to afford legal counsel.
Connecticut Tenants Union
The Connecticut Tenants Union is a valuable resource for tenants seeking support and advice on housing-related issues. They offer guidance on tenant rights, rental agreements, and disputes with landlords. This organization is a great place to turn for practical advice and advocacy in tenant-landlord relationships. They may also provide referrals to other resources or legal services if your situation requires specialized assistance.
UConn Employee Assistance Program
The UConn Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is another key resource for employees seeking support. Their hotline is available for a wide range of personal and professional issues, including legal concerns. The EAP offers confidential assistance and can connect you with legal professionals or other resources that can help address your specific situation. Whether you’re dealing with workplace issues, personal legal matters, or need general support, the EAP can provide referrals and guidance tailored to your needs.
