Application Requirements


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Below are Paws 4 A Cure's proof of hardship requirements and application. If you meet the qualifications then apply for assistance.

Before your application for financial assistance can be reviewed, you are required to email or fax the following documents for all members of your household that are over 18 years of age that contribute to the monthly household expenses. Do not mail your documents, it delays the process.

You MUST prove hardship. 
Below is a list of documents that are acceptable proof of hardship. You do not have to provide all of the documents, you just need to prove why you cannot afford to pay for the veterinary care on your own.
    • (REQUIRED) Complete the application on pages five and six.

    • (REQUIRED) Copy of the front of your license or picture ID.

    • (REQUIRED) Copy of your most recent bank statements and a current screenshot showing the balance for each of your bank accounts.

    • (REQUIRED) Explain in your email why you cannot afford the treatment on your own.
    • (REQUIRED) Proof that you cannot financially afford the veterinary care without a grant. Below is a list of documents that are acceptable proof of hardship. You do not have to provide all of the documents. You just need to prove why you cannot afford to pay for the veterinary care on your own.
      • Last pay stub (if employed) for all members of your household over 18 years of age that contribute towards the household expenses.
      • A copy of your latest tax return for all members of your household over 18 years of age that contribute towards the household expenses. 
      • Letter of acceptance from any form of Social Security, proof of current Social Security, Unemployment, Disability, SNAP, Medicaid/Medicare, WIC, Public Housing, Section 8, Transitional Assistance.
      • Copy of your approval/denial letter from CareCredit (if your veterinary office accepts) for all members of your household over 18 years of age and your most recent CareCredit statement (if applicable) for all members of your household over 18 years of age that contribute towards the household expenses. 
      • A copy of the front and back of your pet’s insurance card (if applicable).
      • Any document that you feel would prove that you cannot afford the veterinary care on your own.

    For your protection – before sending any documents to Paws 4 A Cure, please black out all occurrences of account numbers and/or social security numbers. If they show, please be ensured that your private information will not be shared.

    Do not provide any veterinary documents, that will come from the treating veterinarian.
    Treating Veterinary Practice

    Paws 4 A Cure will need some information from your treating veterinarian about your dog or cat before reviewing your application. Please call the treating veterinary practice to get their email address, then add their email address in the bottom section of your application and Paws 4 A Cure will email the Veterinary Packet below to them. 

    How to Fill Out the Application for Assistance


    💻 Using a Computer or Laptop (Best Option)

    1. Open the PDF file.
    2. Click into each field to type in your responses.
    3. Sign the document in the signature section.
    4. Click the download arrow in the top-right corner.
    5. Select “With your changes”.
    6. Choose a file location on your computer to save the completed application.
    7. Email the saved PDF to [email protected] with your proof of hardship attached.

    Using an Android Phone

    1. Open the PDF application.

    2. Tap the edit pen icon at the top of your screen to enable form filling.

    3. Fill in all fields.

    4. When you reach the signature section on page 2:

      • Tap the pen icon in the top-right corner.

      • Tap where you want to place your signature.

      • Sign in the box that appears (in landscape mode).

      • Tap the checkmark to confirm.

      • If needed, repeat for additional signature areas.

    5. When finished, tap the three dots at the top-right.

    6. Select “Save As – This device”, and choose a folder.

    7. Email the completed form to [email protected] and attach your proof of hardship.


    Using an iPhone (with Adobe Fill & Sign app)

    1. Download the Adobe Fill & Sign app from the App Store.

    2. Open the app and tap the Profile icon at the bottom to enter your personal info (helps autofill future forms).

    3. Open your PDF form (from Files, email, Safari, etc.).

    4. Tap on any text field to fill it out.

    5. For checkboxes:

      • The app may auto-detect and let you tap to check.

      • If not, long-press to bring up options (check, cross, dot, dash, box).

    6. To sign:

      • Tap the pen icon at the bottom.

      • Select “Create Signature”, sign in the box, and tap Done.

      • Place the signature on the form.

    7. When complete, tap the Share icon (bottom right).

    8. Select Mail and email the form to [email protected], attaching your proof of hardship.

    If you need help with the process, scanners and fax machines are available at Staples, your local library, or business centers. 

    How to Submit Your Completed Application and Documentation

    Please send your completed application and proof of financial hardship documentation using one of the following methods:

    • Fax: (866) 799-5166
      Please send only once, as we are charged per page.

    • Email (preferred):
      Scan your documents as a PDF and email them to: [email protected]

    🚫 Do NOT mail your documents.
    Mailed documents significantly delay processing, as the PO Box is only checked monthly.

    Important Notes About Submissions:

    • Image files must be clear and legible.

    • Documents must be close-up and readable—blurry or distant images will not be accepted.

    Need help scanning or faxing?
    Scanners and fax machines are available at:

    • Local copy centers (e.g., Staples)
    • Public libraries
    • Business service centers

    Important Reminder

    Your application for assistance will not be reviewed or responded to until both of the following are received by Paws 4 A Cure:

    1. Your completed application for assistance

    2. Your proof of financial hardship documentation

    Please ensure that all required documents are submitted together to avoid delays in processing your request.

    Application for Financial Assistance below

    Fundraising Page Requirement for Approved Applicants

    If your application is approved, you will be required to provide a photo of your dog or cat and their story so that Paws 4 A Cure can create an official fundraising page.

    Please note:

    • We cannot use existing fundraising pages (such as GoFundMe or other platforms). All fundraising must be conducted through a page created and managed by Paws 4 A Cure.

    • If the requested materials are not provided, we will be unable to fundraise on your behalf, and therefore, no payment will be released. You will be fully responsible for any veterinary charges incurred.

    We kindly ask each approved applicant to actively share their fundraising page with friends, family, and their local community to raise the much-needed funds that support their pet’s care—and help us continue our mission to assist others in similar situations.

    Paws 4 A Cure reserves the right to suspend or revoke fundraising privileges, or suspend or close ongoing sponsor cases, at any time with an email provided to you stating why.
    Copyright 2008-2025 © Paws 4 A Cure.  All Rights Reserved.
    Paws 4 A Cure, P.O. Box 4083, Fall River, MA, 02723
    Paws 4 A Cure is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance throughout the United States to those who cannot afford veterinary care for their beloved furry family members. Paws 4 A Cure helps dogs and cats with all illnesses and injuries. Paws 4 A Cure does not discriminate against breed, age, or diagnosis.

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