Public Charge Provider List – CDSS

Public charge is defined as a non-citizen who is likely to become primarily dependent on the government for support, by receiving either: cash assistance for income maintenance (like CalWORKs, SSI, and General Relief/Assistance), being institutionalized for long-term care at government expense. Public charge can make them inadmissible for a green card or entry into the U.S. This determination is made by immigration officers and considers factors like age, health, family status, financial resources, and skills, though only specific government benefits for income maintenance or long-term institutionalization are generally considered. Many benefits, such as CalFresh (food stamps), WIC, and non-emergency Medicaid, do not count as public charge benefits and are safe to use

The organizations on this list are able to provide assistance regarding public charge.