Financial Information ~ Fees

'You Choose' Fee Program to Continue

Since July of last year, IMS has piloted a ‘You Choose’ fee program at the Forest Refuge. It has allowed many retreatants – who could not otherwise afford the cost – the chance to practice there. With the pilot coming to an end in October, IMS is pleased to announce it will continue offering a number of ‘You Choose’ fee spaces for the foreseeable future. This is part of our commitment to make the Buddha’s teachings accessible to all, regardless of means.

For stays of fourteen nights or longer, applicants can select their own fee amount based on what they can afford (a minimum of $10 per night is required). Spaces are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

To find out more, visit our website, email fr@dharma.org or call (978) 355-2063.

Fees

IMS course fees are on a sliding scale basis that allows participants to pay according to individual means. The Forest Refuge has three rates - Sustaining, Mid and Base. Some financial assistance is also available to support those in financial need. In addition to the 'You Choose' fee option mentioned above, please see our information on Scholarships.

Payment at the Base rate covers less than 50% of what is needed to run our centers. In order to balance our budget and provide wise stewardship of our resources, donations must supplement any fee income received at this level.

The Sustaining rate represents the actual cost to IMS to operate our programs. Payment at this rate lets us direct income from donations towards helping those with lesser means attend our retreats. If you can afford this level or higher, you assist our efforts to offer lower sliding scale rates and ongoing financial subsidies.

Fees for 2009 are not yet established. Sliding scale fees for 2008 are outlined in the box below.

Any amount paid above the Base rate is a tax-deductible donation.

Deposits

A deposit of approximately one third of your total retreat cost is due once your application has been approved. (The minimum deposit for anyone on a 'You Choose' fee option is $50.) Deposits are accepted online, by mail, by phone or in person. Please make your check or money order payable to IMS, or include Visa or MasterCard information. If you register for a 2009 retreat, the deposit will be calculated based on 2008 rates until 2009 fees are set.

Cancellations

Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel. Fees are: $100 (or full deposit if less than this was paid) for notice given more than 60 days before your retreat begins. Your full deposit is forfeited after that.

2008 Rates

Length of Stay                                    Sliding Scale Amount (per night)
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• All Forest Refuge fees include an honorarium for the teachers.
• Any amount paid above the Base rate is a tax-deductible donation.