Understanding Public Charge Rule Changes
Diane Wenzler
Since the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published new regulations about how they will decide if a person is likely to become a public charge there has been a surge of news articles and web pages discussing the regulations and the impact on immigrants. Some of the news and commentary is confusing, some of it is misleading, and some of it is simply wrong.
To clear up the confusion the Community Serivice Society created a comprehensive fact sheet that has everything you need to know about public charge: what it means, how it's changing, what the changes mean, who's impacted, and resources for help. We encourage immigrants, and the providers who serve them, to give it a read. It's important amid the confusion that everyone gets the facts straight before taking any action regarding an individual’s use of public benefits.
The fact sheet contains information for educational purposes only; it is not legal advice. You should consult with an experienced immigration attorney if you have questions or concerns, or need representation.
Additional Resources
- Office for New Americans at 800-566-7636 for free legal consultation on public charge and referrals to immigration legal services providers as needed
- NYC residents can call The Legal Aid Society at 844-955-3425
- Protecting Immigrant Families is a campaign dedicated to providing materials on public charge to help equip individuals with what they need to know to make the best decision for themselves and their families. Click here for more information.
- New York Immigration Coalition has published a fact sheet on public charge and public benefits.
- The Legal Society has published a screening tool on public charge here.