California Health and Human Services

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General Information

The Federal Government has issued a final public charge rule, which limits its application and removes barriers to accessing public benefits for most immigrants.

The final rule was published on September 9, 2022 and takes effect on December 23, 2022.

The final rule limits federal immigration officials’ ability to consider receipt of public benefits in granting individuals entry into the United States or when they apply to become lawful permanent residents (also known as green card holders).

Resources

 

Public Charge Guide

The CalHHS Public Charge Guide provides current information regarding federal changes to “public charge” determinations and the use of public benefits.

The guide is also available in the following languages:

Statement from CalHHS Leaders

"Immigrants and their families should not have to live in fear of being punished for accessing critical health care, nutrition, or housing benefits." Joint statement from CalHHS leaders on new public charge regulation.

Read the full statement from CalHHS leaders on the new public charge regulation.

Additional Information & Resources

Please visit the US Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) website for updated information.

For questions regarding this final rule and public charge more generally, a list of nonprofit organizations qualified to assist individuals is available on the California Department of Social Services website.

Get more information on the California Immigration Guide website.