USALaw

USA: Wider range of public benefits now counted in green card public charge decisions from 18 September 2026

Covers the week of 14 September 2026 · published 2026-09-24

This describes the week above, not today. Rules move, and this page is not updated after it is published. Check the official source below before you act on it, that is what the link is for.

A final rule that removes the 2022 public charge regulations took effect on 18 September 2026. From that date officers may weigh any means-tested public benefit, such as food stamps, housing help or college financial aid, case by case. Benefits received before that date count only if they were cash aid for income support or long-term care at government expense.

Takes effect 2026-09-18.

Official source: USCIS Issues Guidance on Making Public Charge Inadmissibility Determination | USCIS

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