Public Charge, Explained

Policy Brief | Aug. 2020

Public Charge, Explained

Diane Wenzler

Summary:

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. It is important amid the confusion that immigrants, and the providers who serve them, get the facts straight before taking any action regarding an individual’s use of public benefits.

This Q&A will help you learn what public charge means, how it is changing, what the changes mean, who it impacts, and resources for help. It contains general 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.

Issues:

Download PDF