Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application and in a crisis to apply; documentation of the crisis may be required. The program defines a crisis as "a decisive or critical moment in regards to a client's health and/or life," specifically loss of clothes and/or shelter due to natural disasters, becoming disabled due to illness or accident, and life-threatening sickness to the client or immediate family members. Proof of age is determined by a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) or a tribal membership card. Household income must not exceed 150% of the poverty level set by the Department of Health & Human Services, verified with the last 30 days of income; tribal members age 85 and older do not have to provide proof of income. The maximum number of emergency assistance checks is one per household.