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What We Do: Individual Development Accounts
Believe that saving money is a step toward self-sufficiency. 

Mile High United Way's Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) are matched savings accounts made available through a collaboration with community partners to help people build a better future.

Here's how it works:
blue bullet For every $1 you save you receive $4 in match.
blue bullet Maximum savings amount is $1,000
blue bullet Maximum match is $4,000
blue bullet Maximum savings period is 24 months

What money can be used for:
blue bullet Purchase a home.  (first time home buyers only)
blue bullet Start or grow a small business.
blue bullet Pay college tuition or for vocational education for yourself or a family member.

How to qualify:
blue bullet Your net worth must not exceed $10,000, excluding your primary residence and automobile.   (net worth = what you own minus what you owe.)
AND
blue bullet

You must qualify based on your income or claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).   (see eligibilty information.)


Program Requirements:
blue bullet Participate in the program for a minimum of six months after opening the account.
blue bullet Complete approved, basic financial education classes.
blue bullet Finish classes related to your savings goal.
blue bullet Provide an invoice for a qualified purchase to access matched funds.



2009 Metro Denver IDA Income Eligibility

blue bullet There are three ways to qualify for an IDA. They all involve family size, make up and income.
blue bullet You may qualify to open an IDA if you fall within the family size and income limits listed below. For instance, you qualify if there are two people in your family and your annual income does not exceed $29,140.

Family Size

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9+

Income limit $21,660 $29,140 $36,620 $44,100 $51,580 $59,060 $66,540 $74,020

Add $7,480 for each person


OR
blue bullet Your family qualifies under the Earned Income Tax Credit Guidelines below and you have investment inicome less than $3,1000 for the year. 


Number of Qualifying Children

Filing Single Adjusted Gross Income

Married Filing Jointly Adjusted Gross Income

0

$13,440

$18,440

1

$35,463

$40,463

2

$40,295

$45,295

3 or more

$43,279

$48,279



OR    Within the City and County of Denver
blue bullet IDAs are available at the higher income limits listed below to families with dependants starting or growing a business in Denver, or for education for individuals living or working in Denver.  Individuals can purchase a home in Denver whether or not they have dependants.


Family Size

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Income limit $42,550 $48,650 $54,700 $60,800 $65,650 $70,550 $75,400 $80,250


The funding source for this activity is the City and County of Denver, Office of Economic Development.

IDA Calendar

Learn more about Mile High United Way, read our stories of success, watch our online videos and join the movement for positive change at www.unitedwaydenver.org.

Believe that We Can Do More Together! 

Click here to read an Adult Self Sufficiency Success Story





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