This resource provides information on federal laws, regulations, and guidance that protect the information that immigrant families provide to public benefits agencies when applying for health, nutrition, cash assistance, child care, and other public benefits programs. It offers tips for communicating with state and local benefit agencies about these protections.
Table
This table provides information on privacy protections and information requirements for various federal benefits programs, including Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), Affordable Care Act Marketplace coverage, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and more.
View the Table
We thank many partners, including the Food Research & Action Center, The Shriver Center on Poverty Law and the Legal Council for Health Justice. Please send any questions to Sonya Schwartz, Consultant, Protecting Immigrant Families (PIF) or Tanya Broder, National Immigration Law Center Senior Counsel at [email protected].
Overview of Immigrant Eligibility for Federal Programs (Table)
Updated Oct 1, 2026 This table provides an overview of immigrant eligibility for the major federal public assistance programs. Originally published in November 2015.
Major Benefit Programs Available to Immigrants in California (Table)
Updated Sep 23, 2026 This table lists the programs for which certain immigrants residing in California are eligible. Originally published in May 2017.
How Anti-Black Racism Shapes Welfare Inequality for Immigrants
Published Sep 18, 2026 Laws and policies throughout American history have consistently and systematically ensured that Black people and immigrants do not receive equal opportunities to escape poverty.
What Immigrants Need to Know About the New Medicaid Eligibility Restrictions
Ben D’Avanzo
Published Oct 1, 2026 Congress has introduced Medicaid eligibility restrictions for immigrants who have experienced domestic violence and human trafficking, among others.