Job Access Loan (JAL)

If you need financial help to keep or get a job, a Job Access Loan (JAL) might be for you. 

A JAL is a no-interest loan of up to $1,600. There is no credit check or bank involved with a JAL. It can be paid back over 12 months with a combination of community service and cash.

A JAL can be used to help you keep or get a job. Examples of JAL uses are:

• Car repairs;
• Car loans;
• Car insurance;
• Job clothing and uniforms;
• Computer and equipment for remote work;
• Tools and supplies (work boots, cleaning supplies, manufacturing, or construction equipment, etc.);
• Housing or moving needs to keep or get a job; and
• Fees, fines, or car insurance to get a driver’s license.

Do I qualify?

To receive a loan, you must have a job or a job offer, and:

• Be a parent with a minor child, with or without custody;
• Be over 18 years old;
• Be a Wisconsin resident and U.S. citizen or qualified noncitizen;
• Cooperate with child support, unless being in contact with the second parent puts you or your children's safety at risk (See the Child Support Cooperation and Good Cause Publication) ; and
• Have income at or below 115% of the Federal Poverty Level with total assets not over $2,500.

Your local W-2 agency is here to answer questions you have and help determine if you are eligible. Find your local W-2 agency’s contact on the Find Your Local W-2 Agency page.

How do I apply?

You can start an application for a JAL online using the ACCESS website. Once you submit your information, a W-2 agency will contact you to complete your application.

To apply for a JAL in person, please visit the Find Your Local W-2 Agency page for your local agency contact information.

How do I repay my loan?

You have 12 months to repay your loan. Depending on your situation, the repayment period can be extended an extra 12 months, for a total of 24 months.

Up to 75% of your loan can be repaid in community service activities. Volunteer work could be through a:

• Food pantry;
• Senior meal site;
• Habitat fo Humanity;
• Blood drive organization;
• Community garden;
• School; or
• Church.

A minimum of 25% of the loan must be repaid in cash. There is no interest added when you repay your loan.

How often can I get a JAL?

You may have multiple JALs at one time, but your total loan amount cannot be more than $1,600.

What are my options if I am denied?

You have the right to request a Fact Finding review if you disagree with the W-2 agency’s eligibility decision. To start this process, contact your agency to let them know you want a Fact Finding Review.

You can also contact the DCF W-2 Customer Service Line at 855-757-4539 to talk to a DCF staff member about your experience with the JAL program. We appreciate all feedback and will try our best to provide the help you need.

More Resources:

DCF can help you! Please see additional services available below.