Which Tier is Right for You?

 

An Honor-Based Self-Assessment Guide

This 3 step guide helps you choose the tier that aligns with your financial circumstances and values. There are no wrong answers—this is about mutual respect and care.

Step 1: Assess Your Financial Situation

Ask yourself:

  • Solidarity Tier (200–200–375/session):

    • Do you have stable income, savings, or wealth that comfortably covers your needs (housing, food, healthcare, debt, etc.)?

    • Can you afford "extras" like vacations, dining out, or luxury purchases without financial stress?

    • Are you able to support others financially (e.g., donate to causes, help family/friends)?

    • If "yes" to most, this tier sustains access for others.

  • Sustainer Tier (160–160–275/session):

    • Does your income cover basic needs but leave little room for extras?

    • Do you occasionally worry about finances but aren’t in crisis?

    • This tier reflects the baseline value of my work.

  • Community Tier (90–90–165/session) or Pay-What-You-Can (30–30–60):

    • Do you struggle to afford basic needs (e.g., food, rent, medical care)?

    • Are you unemployed, underemployed, disabled, or facing a financial crisis?

    • Do systemic barriers (racism, transphobia, ableism, etc.) limit your income/wealth?

    • If "yes," choose Community Tier or inquire about Pay-What-You-Can spots.

Step 2: Reflect on Your Social Identity & Access

The Community Tier prioritizes folks who face systemic marginalization, such as:

  • BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color)

  • Transgender, nonbinary, or LGBTQIA+ individuals

  • Disabled or chronically ill individuals

  • Single parents/caregivers

  • Immigrants or undocumented individuals

  • Survivors of abuse or trauma impacting financial stability

You qualify for the Community Tier if you experience either financial strain or systemic marginalization—even if your income is stable.

Step 3: Choose Your Tier

  • Solidarity Tier
    Choose this if:

    • You have generational wealth, investments, or a high-paying job.

    • You want to actively redistribute resources to support others.

    • Example: A corporate executive who donates regularly to mutual aid funds.

  • Sustainer Tier
    Choose this if:

    • You’re middle-class, salaried, or have moderate disposable income.

    • Example: A teacher or nurse who budgets carefully but isn’t in crisis.

  • Community Tier
    Choose this if:

    • You’re a student, artist, gig worker, or live paycheck-to-paycheck.

    • You’re part of a marginalized group facing systemic barriers.

    • Example: A disabled freelancer or a single parent on Medicaid.

  • Pay-What-You-Can (30–60)
    Request this if:

    • You’re disabled, homeless, fleeing abuse, or recently unemployed.

    • Example: Someone recovering from a medical emergency with no savings.

Still Unsure?

  • Default to Sustainer Tier if you’re uncertain—you can always adjust later.

  • Email me for guidance. No pressure, no judgment.

A Note on Integrity

This system thrives on trust. By choosing a tier that honestly reflects your situation, you:

  • Ensure I can keep serving marginalized clients.

  • Honor the true cost of care (20+ years of training, certifications, and labor).

  • Join a community committed to equity.

Examples in Action

  • Maria (Solidarity Tier): A tech CEO who chooses this tier to fund two Community Tier slots.

  • Jamal (Community Tier): A Black trans man facing workplace discrimination and medical debt.

  • Linh (Pay-What-You-Can): A refugee rebuilding their life after displacement.

Ready to Book?
Let’s connect.

With gratitude for your honesty,
Jennifer Kerns