In California, there are several state and local programs that help California families, including immigrants, meet their basic needs. These programs often play an important role by extending benefits to immigrants who are not eligible for federal benefit programs. This resource gives an overview of some of the public benefits that are available to immigrants in California to access education, healthcare, food assistance, and other important necessities.
On December 23, 2022 a new rule on public charge went into effect. For more information, go to the ILRC’s public charge updates page. We are working to update our resources in light of the new rule, which solidifies and strengthens longstanding guidance, but in the meantime much of the information in this resource continues to apply. Note, however, that any I-485 applications submitted on or after December 23, 2022 must use the updated 12/23/22 edition date.
