EarnIn provides $50,000 to cover Connecticut late fees

After the Connecticut Banking Commission shut down Earned Wage Access in the state, arguing that the product is a loan and should be regulated as such, providers of the service launched a campaign to fight against that narrative after the services were forced to choose between complying with regulations on loans or shutting down service on Jan 1, 2024. Almost all chose to suspend service.

EarnIn, one of the providers of Earned Wage Access has launched the EarnIn Customer Support Fund, making $50,000 available to residents who face bank overdraft fees or late fees on utility, phone, or credit card bills.

“EarnIn is, and has always been, committed to supporting those who rely on EWA products to avoid late fees and unnecessary debt. With this program, any Connecticut resident who incurred these kinds of fees because of Connecticut’s action can receive a reimbursement from the EarnIn Customer Support Fund by check, or e-gift card through Giverrang, an innovative Connecticut-based start-up that provides custom gift card solutions,” reads a May 1 press release.

“We’re excited to support this initiative that will provide supplemental help to those in our community who need it most,” said Executive Director Victor Lopez Jr. of the Hispanic Coalition of Greater Waterbury which is facilitating the program.

“To truly protect the wellbeing of our community, it’s essential that we continue working to protect the financial options like earned wage access that enable individuals to bridge the gap between paychecks and fulfill their immediate financial needs with dignity and fairness,” Lopez Jr. said.