On Monday, February 24, a new set of policies related to public charge assessments will take effect. When some individuals apply to enter or re-enter the United States and/or modify their existing immigration status, a public charge assessment is conducted. Unfortunately, the receipt of certain public benefits, including some health care benefits, could cause an individual to be denied entry to this country.
ACA Marketplace coverage will NOT negatively factor into a public charge assessment. That means both immigrants themselves AND their family members may continue to enroll in ACA coverage without any negative effect on a future application for a green card. In addition, nearly every immigrant and/or immigrant’s family member who is eligible for Medicaid coverage is likely to be able to enroll in that program as well without concern.
Still, it’s important to be aware of the upcoming changes in case you or someone you know uses a public benefit that IS included. Please click here to learn more about the changes to public charge, and help spread the word! The North Carolina Justice Center also has resources available, including flyers and short videos on public charge at www.ncjustice.org/public-charge. If you have any questions or would like more information, please email Kate Woomer-Deters at the NC Justice Center at kate@ncjustice.org.
Be well,
NC Get Covered staff