Sliding Scale: Things to Think About

The Canadian Unitarian Council (CUC) offers a sliding scale for all its events. A sliding scale is a tiered payment system. It enables those who might otherwise be unable to afford the cost of admission to pay a reduced fee. Or, to attend for free.*

The middle tier represents how much it costs per person to run the event. CUC events and programs run on a “break even” basis. If you are able to choose the high tier, the extra money you provide the CUC supports those who need to select the free or low tier.**  

Free Tier: $0
Low Tier: $
Middle Tier: $
High Tier: $

These tiers may not work for you, we also offer “choose the amount you pay” option. 

Please select the free tier if you need to, especially if these statements apply to you:

  • You live below the poverty line (under $18 000 per year).
  • You rely on social assistance.

Consider paying at the low tier if these statements apply to you:

  • You make less than 25 000** per year.
  • You are working for minimum wage and are supporting children or other dependents.
  • You are a senior or veteran living on social supports.
  • You have experienced a lot of unemployment or insecure employment.
  • You live in shared housing (requiring roommates to pay for rent) or social housing.
  • You have experienced financial insecurity. Therefore, the thought of paying a higher fee makes you anxious.
  • You can’t afford a car and/or transit.
  • You are a student who doesn’t work or works a small amount.

Consider the middle tier if these statements apply to you:

  • You make less than 45 000 per year.
  • You never have to worry about paying for basic rent or groceries and have what you need. Yet, you struggle to save up or afford luxuries, or surprise expenses. 
  • You rent your own apartment (with or without (a) romantic other(s)).
  • You have a low paying full-time job.
  • You work a stable, minimum-wage job full time. You have no credit card debt, uninsured medical or immigration-related expenses, or children/dependents.
  • You have children or other dependents and can’t give them the life you wish you could.

Consider the high tier if these statements are true for you:

  • You make over 45 000 per year.
  • You own or rent a house (you are able to make mortgage payments). 
  • You have investments, retirement accounts, and/or inherited money.
  • The full cost of this program is only a mild inconvenience to you.
  • You want to support those who couldn’t afford to attend this event otherwise, and/or give back.

*The free tier option is available to anyone who needs it. We will not ask for proof of income or request a justification if you choose this option.  Note: you still need to submit the registration form. On the payment page, select “pay by credit card by phone.” If you have selected the free tier option, no one will call you to process payment.