What is Public Charge?

A public charge is someone who is likely to become primarily dependent on the U.S. government for financial support. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, this typically refers to reliance on cash assistance for income maintenance (like SSI or TANF) or long-term institutionalization at government expense. This determination is made during certain immigration processes, such as applying for a green card from within the U.S.

However, not all public benefits count against someone. Programs like Medicaid (except for long-term care), SNAP (food stamps), housing assistance, and school lunch programs generally do not trigger public charge concerns. Also, refugees, asylees, VAWA applicants, and certain other humanitarian categories are exempt from public charge rules altogether.