$Immigrant Benefits Guide
Free · Confidential · No citizenship required to apply

Can I get public assistance as an immigrant?

Many immigrants can apply for benefits like Medicaid, Cash Assistance, and WIC — and most never need to worry about the "public charge" rule. Use this free guide to learn where you stand.

✓ You do not need to be a citizen or have status to apply for many benefits
2-question self-check

Could the "public charge" rule affect you?

This is the question most immigrants worry about. Answer two quick questions for general guidance. Your answers stay on this device.

1Are you applying for — or do you plan to apply for — a green card from inside the U.S. (or an immigrant visa)?
2Are you a refugee, asylee/asylum seeker, VAWA self-petitioner, U-visa or T-visa holder, special immigrant juvenile, or someone paroled into the U.S.?
What you may qualify for

Benefits you can apply for

You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have immigration status to apply for these.

The rule explained, plainly

What "public charge" actually means

It is a test that applies to some immigrants and some programs — not a ban on benefits, and generally not a reason for deportation.

If you decide to apply

How to apply in New York

Follow these steps. HRA must give you an application and help you in your language, and cannot turn you away from applying.

Not sure if applying is safe for your case? Ask us first — free.

If you have or plan a green card case, a quick conversation before you apply can protect you. Get a free, confidential consultation.

📞 Request a free consultation
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