The Green Bottle Sliding Scale

What is a sliding scale?

In our society shaped by capitalism, access to resources and the value placed upon individuals are determined by various factors such as race, perceived gender identity, disability/ability, immigration status, and primary language, among others. It’s important to recognize that income alone doesn’t dictate financial capacity; factors like caregiving responsibilities, access to generational wealth, and costs related to disabilities also influence one’s relationship with money. A sliding scale system is implemented to promote fair payment according to individual means. Those with greater financial means contribute more, enabling those with fewer resources to pay what they can afford. This approach ensures the sustainability of services while maximizing accessibility.

How do I determine what to pay?

The Green Bottle chart below illustrates different levels of financial privilege and experiences. Please refer to it to assess your capacity to contribute. See below for image description.

Why might I feel uneasy about this?

Capitalism often instills shame to deter actions that challenge its structures. It’s essential to recognize and resist this dynamic. If you’re in a position to contribute less to Wildwood Wisdom, please do so without hesitation. As Britt Hawthorne emphasizes, poverty is a construct perpetuated by governments and employers; it’s not a reflection of personal character or effort. Conversely, if you’re able to contribute more, consider it an act of solidarity and a rejection of the privileges afforded by racial capitalism. Your additional investment will support subsidizing lower-level purchases, compensating contributors, and sponsoring educational initiatives.

(description adapted from the Radical History Club)

Sliding Scale at Doing Good Websites

At Doing Good Websites, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality services. We follow The Green Bottle Sliding Scale Method, a flexible yet structured tool for discussing sliding scale fees.

How It Works:

The Green Bottle Sliding Scale Method, developed by Alexis J. Cunningfolk, is a fee structure designed to accommodate clients with varying financial means. It provides a flexible payment range instead of a fixed price for services. Clients self-select the category that best fits their financial situation without financial verification, fostering transparency and trust.

The Green Bottle Analogy:

Imagine a green bottle filled with liquid, representing different payment options labeled as “High Income,” “Medium Income,” and “Low Income.” Clients choose a marble corresponding to their financial ability, eliminating the discomfort of discussing finances and providing a safe space for honesty about their capacity.

Payment Tiers:

Full Price (100% of services): This is the cost charged to all clients regardless of sliding scale eligibility. If you have financial security, own property, or have personal savings, you likely do not qualify for the sliding scale. As Cunningfolk explains, if you can pay for “wants” and rarely worry about necessities, you have economic privilege. This price is for you.

Middle Cost (75%-50% of services): This tier is for clients who would struggle to attend services at full price but do not reflect the financial need of the lowest cost category. These clients might have steady income but live paycheck to paycheck or are rebuilding savings. They may occasionally need help, especially for ongoing services.

Bottom Cost (30%-10%): This tier is for clients who would be unable to participate in services without a deep discount. It is limited to two slots per clinician to maintain financial viability. Cunningfolk describes this group as those struggling to maintain access to necessities like healthcare, housing, and food, often living paycheck to paycheck or in significant debt.

The Power of Transparency:

Transparency is key. We openly share our sliding scale policy, how it’s managed, and who can access it. We believe everyone deserves quality care, regardless of their ability to pay, while also respecting the investment our practitioners have made in their education and licenses. Though we can’t remove all barriers to care, we strive to make this one as flexible as possible.

Fostering a Community of Trust:

By embracing the Green Bottle Sliding Scale Method, we foster a community of trust, understanding, and empathy. Clients feel valued and respected when they can choose a fee that matches their financial situation, empowering them to advocate for their needs.

Redefining “Affordability”:

Affordability isn’t just about the ability to pay a fixed price. The Green Bottle Sliding Scale Method redefines affordability by recognizing our clients’ diverse financial circumstances. This approach ensures our services are accessible to a broader range of individuals, promoting inclusivity.

Welcome to Doing Good Websites. We look forward to working with you and helping you grow!