Public Charge and Immigration

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On September 8, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a new Final Rule on Public Charge, to become effective December 23, 2022. It formally reverses the prior Administration's rule and restores the decades-long, historical understanding of a "public charge." This means that supplemental health benefits such as Medicaid (Medi-Cal) and nutritional assistance such as SNAP (CalFresh) for which immigrants may qualify will not be considered as part of the public charge inadmissibility determination. The new rule also clarifies that DHS will not consider in public charge determinations benefits received by family members other than the applicant.

Public charge does not apply to all immigrants or all benefit programs. Each situation is different and there are many benefits not considered in the public charge assessment. Available to you are community agencies and resources that can provide information and advice specific to you and your family situation. Click on the tabs below for the latest updates regarding public charge.

We advise anyone concerned about their immigration circumstance to review the rule and to talk to a legal expert. CCHS and its employees cannot offer legal advice.

What is Public Charge
Who is Not Affected
Resources

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