Benefits for Immigrants in NYC

Overview

New York City is home to millions of immigrants and their families. In New York City, there are more options for immigrants to get health insurance than other states. The COVID-19 pandemic also urged New York law makers to come up with solutions for both documented and undocumented immigrants.

Health Insurance

In New York City, there are many health Insurance options to pick from. All children under nineteen are eligible for Child Health Plus, regardless of their income or immigration status. Medicaid is another option for free, or low-cost insurance. Medicaid is targeted toward New Yorkers who have low income. Women who are pregnant can apply for emergency Medicaid, regardless of their immigration status, which will last them their pregnancy term. If you are an individual who is undocumented and is not pregnant, you can still apply for Medicaid for emergency purposes. Students who are under DACA, those without papers who came to the U.S. as children can also qualify for Medicaid insurance. If you are not accepted by Medicaid, there are other insurance options such as the Essential Plan. Immigrants who recently moved to the U.S. with a valid visa can qualify. Finally, immigrants can always apply for private health insurance. There is also financial help to assist in covering the insurance cost.

Covid-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic the federal government provided financial aid to Americans. Numerous stimulus checks were given to Americans who lost their jobs during the quarantine.  During the pandemic, the unemployment rate skyrocketed to about 16%, many of whom were undocumented. The first round of federal aid excluded many immigrants, specifically undocumented immigrants. To solve this issue, New York law makers created The Excluded Worker Fund. This is the first program of its kind in the country that is aimed toward helping undocumented individuals financially. Undocumented immigrants who qualify for tier 1 benefits may receive a flat rate payment of 15,600. This is less than half of what the average New Yorker received in unemployment during the pandemic.

At The Law Office of Yifei He, PLLC, our lawyer has years of experience helping clients overcome a wide range of legal barriers. With our attorney by your side, you can navigate this process with efficiency and confidence.

Request your initial consultation by calling 1 (917) 338-7678 or sending us an online message today.

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