Changes to SNAP and Medicaid Eligibility for Some Immigrants

Federal law has changed SNAP and Medicaid eligibility for some immigrants. Asylees, refugees, and people with certain humanitarian immigration statuses may be most affected.

What should families know?

• Some immigrants may lose SNAP or Medicaid eligibility.

• Children and pregnant people may still qualify for certain benefits.

• Other food assistance may be available through SUN Bucks, WIC, and local food banks.

• People may have the right to appeal a benefits decision.

What about cash assistance and other public benefits?

H.R. 1 did not change eligibility for cash assistance, including TANF and General Assistance, or most other public benefits. The law changed eligibility rules for SNAP, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, Medicare, and certain Affordable Care Act marketplace tax credits.

Immigrants already receiving cash assistance should not be denied solely because of the changes under H.R. 1.

Questions about immigration status or eligibility? Contact NMILC at 505-247-1023.