Public Charge: What We Know So Far

Everyone is welcome to apply and access WIC, health care, food and housing support, and more public benefits.

On July 16, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a final public charge rule, effective September 18, 2026. The public charge inadmissibility test applies when a person applies for a green card or for a visa. Many immigrants are exempt from public charge by laws that cannot be changed by regulations. The final rule does not include a list of programs that can – or cannot – be considered in determining whether a noncitizen is likely to become a public charge. This removes the clarity that had been provided by the previous rule, which was consistent with decades of agency practice and policy. 

Public Charge Fact Sheet: Does this apply to me?

Immigration Legal Resources

Several free or low-cost immigration or legal status screening resources are available in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange County to help immigrants get the support and information they need.

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