Living on a Stipend

One of the concerns you might have with commiting to a year of service is if you can live on a $1125 monthly stipend. Many members are able to do it successfully each year. You are the best judge of your own financial responsibilities.

Here are a few cost estimates to help you judge if service is financially feasible for you.

Income

$950 ($475 twice per month): estimated amount of your stipend check after deductions (varies according to exemptions claimed on a W-4)
$200: amount of money in food benefits per month (if you qualify; most members do)
$5,550: your education award after completing your service term. Pay down student loans or go to school!

Housing

$400-650: cost of a studio or one-bedroom apartment for yourself
$550-900: cost of a two-bedroom apartment to share with another member
$800-1000: cost of a three-bedroom apartment to share with other members

Miscellaneous

$3.84: one gallon of gas in Wenatchee (as of August 2011)
$20-$100: electric bill for two people in one apartment (includes heating)
$0: student loan payments (you can request forbearance on federal loans)
$0: state income tax (Washington does not have an income tax system)

Initial expenses

Relocation: These costs will vary according to how far you need to travel to relocate
Apartment Deposit: Most apartments will require a deposit equal to one month's rent
First Month: The first stipend check is issued on September 25th; consider this in your planning