Stimulus Checks and Public Charge
In March, President Trump signed into law The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Among other things, the CARES Act provides eligible individuals with a one-time payment of $1,200 or more, if the individual is married or has children. These “stimulus checks” are tax credits that are disbursed by the Treasury Department through direct deposit or paper checks.
In its final rule regarding Public Charge, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains that tax credits are not considered for a public charge determination. Only public benefits, which are defined as means-tested programs, are used to determine a public charge. Unlike other cash benefits, tax credits are not public benefits.
So, if you have received a stimulus check, you have nothing to worry about regarding a public charge consideration.
For more information:
Speak with a lawyer at Bolour/Carl Immigration Group
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate in contacting our office. Call us at (323) 857-0034 today, or complete our online inquiry form to request a meeting or case evaluation.
We also speak Spanish and Persian for your convenience.
Or visit:
Practice Alert: COVID-19 and the Public Charge Rule https://www.aila.org/advo-media/aila-practice-pointers-and-alerts/practice-alert-covid-19-and-the-public-charge-rule
