Paying community researchers is non-negotiable, and it is also where good intentions can do real damage. For someone receiving disability, income, food, or housing benefits, a well-meant check can trigger a claw-back that leaves them worse off, or a reporting problem that puts their benefits at risk. Specific rules vary by program and geography, but there are excellent places to start for concrete guidance and examples.
Washington State’s Community Compensation Guidelines (US)
Guide to Equitably Onboarding Community Researchers with Lived Expertise (Canada)
The Social Change Agency Payment for Involvement Playbook (UK).
The Camden Coalition legal memo on compensation and considerations for public benefit recipients