Public Assistance Question

[kstrozyk 13]

I am about to become a US Citizen and would like to start the process of adjustment of status for my wife. I plan on filing I-130 and I-485 together. One question on I-485 asks about a receipt of public assistance. I am not sure if she should answer yes or no. We live in California and she received temporary Medi-Cal insurance for pregnant women. I read about this subject, and there are many different opinions, even lawyers have different views on this matter. According to the USCIS website, temporary prenatal care is not considered public charge, so it would kind of suggest putting no as an answer. However, some lawyers say to put yes and attach the sheet explaining what the insurance was for. I am afraid though that putting yes may open a can of worms and USCIS will start asking for additional documents, causing delays and I am afraid to put "no" because it may be seen as lying on the form. I know there is no good or bad answer to this question, but I would like you guys to share personal experiences regarding this matter on your visa journey

Thank You

[I AM NOT THAT GUY 5,715]

As long as it was not for cash support, or long term care, there should be no problem. See link:

http://www.state.gov/documents/organization/86988.pdf

Answer yes, and list on separate sheet, describing the type of benefit received and for how long.

Edited February 1, 2012 by ☼

[Brian121957 43]

My understanding is that if it is a benefit (any benefit) that is funded by federal tax dollars then it could be a problem. Not sure about state tax dollar funded.

Some communities have health clinics that are funded by local donations or churches. They offer free or reduced medical care. These are not a problem as it is not government dollars.

don't know who funds "Medi-Cal insurance for pregnant women".

[kstrozyk 13]

It is funded by the State of California

My understanding is that if it is a benefit (any benefit) that is funded by federal tax dollars then it could be a problem. Not sure about state tax dollar funded.

Some communities have health clinics that are funded by local donations or churches. They offer free or reduced medical care. These are not a problem as it is not government dollars.

don't know who funds "Medi-Cal insurance for pregnant women".

[I AM NOT THAT GUY 5,715]

My understanding is that if it is a benefit (any benefit) that is funded by federal tax dollars then it could be a problem. Not sure about state tax dollar funded.

Some communities have health clinics that are funded by local donations or churches. They offer free or reduced medical care. These are not a problem as it is not government dollars.

don't know who funds "Medi-Cal insurance for pregnant women".

Medi-Cal is California's version of Medicaid. 90% of funding typically comes from the Feds, but is administered by the states.