Stipend FAQ
How much will I receive for my stipend check?
Participants will receive a stipend of $1,300 for participating in the workshop, which will be mailed to them after the conclusion of the workshop. The entire stipend is considered taxable income. Project applicants who accept an offer to participate are expected to remain during the entire period of the program and to participate in its work on a full-time basis.
Is the stipend taxable by the IRS?
Yes, the full amount of $1,300 is considered taxable income. You will be required to fill out a W9 and the FDR Committee will send you a 1099 for tax filing purposes. The FDR Committee will NOT withhold from your check. You may wish to talk to your own tax advisor, or see IRS Publication 970. Neither the NEH nor the FDR Committee can advise you on your tax situation; the IRS will know about the full amount of your stipend.
Will the amount of my stipend be enough to cover all of the costs associated with the workshop?
The stipend is intended to offset the cost of your travel, food, and lodging, not necessarily cover all of your expenses. As a point of equity, we will do all that we can to minimize extra costs, however, travel and lodging choices will impact whether the stipend will cover all of your costs.
What happens if I can't be there for the entire workshop?
If you cannot be present for all days of the workshop, or if you have to miss a day, you will not receive the full stipend, per NEH regulations. We only will accept people who can commit to the entire workshop. Of course we know emergencies occur, however, you should not sign up with the intent to only stay for part of the time or to miss some sessions. If a participant is obliged through special circumstances to depart before the end of the program, they will receive a pro-rated stipend to reflect that absence.
Can I select which week of the workshop I wish to attend?
Yes, you can let us know which week you would prefer to attend. Please let us know if you are available for either week despite your preference.
What should I bring with me?
You can expect the weather to be very warm. DC has very high humidity in the summer. Dress for the workshop is business casual. Bring a sweater as rooms might be chilly.
You should bring rain gear (umbrella, raincoat) in case of inclement weather. Bring comfortable walking shoes for the field trips. You will need pens, paper, and other classroom implements.
How do I arrange to have a roommate?
If you are interested in finding a roommate to share a room with or to connect with other interested potential participants, please use the social media site that we will provide after selection.
Can I bring my family/ friends and pets?
You are neither encouraged nor discouraged to bring family/ friends or pets with you. However, they will not be permitted to attend the workshop nor to accompany you on any field trips except for service animals.
Where can I workout?
The weather will be quite warm in July, so there will be lots of opportunities for walking or running outside. Be mindful of the air quality before exercising outside.
Gold’s Gym is located close to the hotel and UDC. For those who are not already members, a free day pass is available. A number of yoga studios are either a short walk, metro or Uber ride away.
What if I get sick?
There are a number of Urgent Care offices near UDC and the two suggested hotels. The closest hospital emergency room is Sibley Memorial Hospital 5255 Loughboro Rd NW, Washington, DC 20016.
Both of these urgent cares are within 1 mile of UDC:
George Washington Urgent Care Cleveland Park is at at 2902 Porter St, NW 202-525-5287 https://gwdocsipc.com/
All Care Family Urgent Care at 3500 Wisconsin Ave Nw, (202) 919-6471 https://allcarefamilymed.com/washington-dc-wisconsin-ave
How do I get around if I don't have a car?
Transportation for field trips will be via either public transportation or chartered bus.
For non-Workshop related trips, consider the DC Metro. The website has a useful Trip Planner feature. Station Managers are also helpful resources to help you find out how to get around. https://www.wmata.com/
Uber and Lyft are also available as well as DC taxi cabs. Be aware of surge rates for Uber and Lyft during peak times.
How much time will there be for seeing the sights?
Part of the workshop will include seeing iconic DC sights. Depending on your own energy and interest level there will be time for independent sightseeing.
What else is there to do while I'm in DC?
The answer really is what CAN’T you do while in DC. The list is endless. From theatre to music to strolls along the National Mall - it is endless. If we can help you with recommendations from real Washingtonians we will!
