Overview
Update 7/1/25 — Due to the increased volume of applications in the Social Services and Higher Education programs, please allow 4-6 weeks from submission of completed application to receipt of payment. While we do offer some emergency assistance program services that allow for a quicker turnaround, these are exceptions and should not be considered as the standard processing time.
Through the Workforce Reimbursement Program (WRP), the Shawnee Tribe provides direct reimbursement for required expenses in order to secure employment. The period of eligibility is during the applicant’s search for employment and first 90 days after the date of hire. The Tribe will reimburse a maximum of $500 per eligible citizen per award year. Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants who intend to apply for this benefit are encouraged to contact program staff ahead of completing their application to verify whether a purchase is reimbursable.
Eligibility, Guidelines and Qualifications
- Shawnee Tribe citizens 16 years of age or older currently seeking employment or within first 90 days of hire date.
- Applicant income, location, or dual citizenship status will not be used to determine applicant eligibility.
- All program assistance will be awarded as funding is available.
Miller
KOHLER
Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to:
- Licensing and testing fees
- Costs associated with internships or apprenticeships
- Uniforms, scrubs, slip-resistant shoes or work boots, interview clothing
- Other required work-related equipment
Ineligible expenses include, but are not limited to:
- Transportation costs
- Housing expenses
- Childcare
- Cell phones, laptops, and tablets
Purchases & receipts must meet the following guidelines to be considered reimbursable:
- Itemized receipts including the purchase date, place of purchase and purchase total must be submitted for all reimbursable expenses.
- WRP Applicants must write or print their name and citizenship enrollment number on the top of each submitted receipt.
- Printed receipts for online purchases are accepted, as long as they meet the requirements above.
- Receipts should not include other, non-reimbursable items; applicants should purchase any non-reimbursable items separately from those they intend to submit for WRP reimbursement.
- Applicants may submit multiple receipts for reimbursable expenses.
- Reimbursable items for only one applicant should be included on each receipt.
- Handwritten receipts will not be accepted.