Ways to Work
 Program Description - Program Flyer / en Español
Ways to Work provides loans to low-income families who cannot qualify for traditional loans.
The loans are used to purchase or repair autos, and ensure transportation to jobs and/or school, which helps provide subsequent economic stability. Loan recipients repay the loan over a period of up to 30 months (depending on the loan amount) at a moderate interest rate, and then the money is made available to other applicants.
Eligibility
To be considered for a loan, certain eligibility requirements must be met. A client must be:
- At least 18 years of age
- A resident of Milwaukee County
- Employed for at least 6 months at a minimum of 20 hours per week
- In poor credit standing or have no credit
- A valid driver’s license holder
- A parent or legal guardian of dependent child(ren)
- Able and willing to repay the loan
- Able to complete financial education
In addition to the eligibility requirements there are maximum income guidelines. Please see the table below.
as of March 2009 |
| Family Size |
Income Limit |
| 2 |
$45,250 |
| 3 |
$50,900 |
| 4 |
$56,550 |
| 5 |
$61,050 |
| 6 |
$65,600 |
| 7 |
$70,100 |
| 8 |
$74,650 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can two people apply?
A. Yes. The application allows for a co-applicant or co-signer to apply. In many instances spouses will apply together as co-applicants. In cases where a client does not meet all of the eligibility requirements, he or she can designate a co-signer to apply with them.
Q. What is the loan process?
A. The simplified version of the process is as follows:
- Client makes an inquiry and is pre-screened
- If eligible, client is mailed an application
- Once application and required documents are received, client is called to schedule the required Financial Literacy class (3 hours) and an interview with the Loan Coordinator
- At the interview, documents are reviewed, a credit report is obtained and reviewed, a budget is constructed, and client writes a personal statement—why they should get loan
- Loan Coordinator presents client’s “case” to a Loan Committee—anonymity is implemented as a program requirement
- Loan Committee only votes for approval or denial
- Approval or Denial letter sent to client
- Approved client selects vehicle at dealership and has inspected—must have proof of insurance (liability)
- Client signs closing paperwork at the SDC
- Client takes check (made out to dealership) and obtains vehicle
Q. How long does the process take?
A. There is no set loan process timeframe. There are 2 loan committees. Each meets once a month two weeks apart. As a result, a client has two opportunities a month to be approved. Much will depend on the readiness of the client in regard to loan process components such as having the appropriate documentation and how soon the interview occurs.
Q. How is the loan amount decided on?
A. Although the maximum loan amount is $6,000.00 not all borrowers will be approved for the maximum. The loan amount will depend on the client’s ability to pay. That ability will be determined after budget construction during the interview.
Q. Can I add money to the loan?
A. Yes, additional funds, such as a tax return, may be added to the loan.
Locations and Hours of Operation
Contact
Terrie Varga
Loan Coordinator
Telephone: 414-906-4617
Fax: 414-906-2780
Ways To Work National Office
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