Rice offers financial assistance to faculty and staff affected by government shutdown

The federal government shutdown is over – at least, for now – but Rice is offering financial help to employees whose families are still feeling its effects.

Rice is offering no-interest loans of up to $2,500 to eligible faculty and staff impacted by the government shutdown. The Cashier’s Office is also working out payment plans with affected students who need help paying their semester bills.

The onetime financial aid is intended to help with immediate needs employees face as a result of the shutdown. Qualifying expenses include utility bills, mortgage payments and rent.

The loans are available for faculty and staff with spouses or partners who were either furloughed or working but not being paid by the federal government.

If you qualify, you can contact employeerelations@rice.edu. Be prepared to provide proof of your spouse or partner’s employment and the reason you need financial assistance. An HR employee will schedule an in-person appointment.

Employees whose loans are approved must then sign a promissory note through the Cashier’s Office, and the funds will be available through direct deposit within 3-5 business days.

Loans will be repaid through payroll deductions over four pay periods, beginning in the first payroll period after the government has reopened for 30 days.

For more information about this financial assistance, please contact employeerelations@rice.edu.