Last checked: 24 October 2026
Benefits checklist
Sign up now
ORR says sign up immediately. Cash and medical help are limited to a period from your ORR eligibility date [source].
Checklist
- Bring proof: I-94 showing admission under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), or I-94 code Visa 93, or an EAD with code A03 [source].
- Mainstream benefits: you may be eligible for TANF, SSI, Medicaid or SNAP [source].
- Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA): if you are not eligible for TANF or SSI. Up to 12 months for an ORR eligibility date on or after 1 January 2026 [source, source].
- Matching Grant: an alternative to TANF or RCA with limited slots, and a 240-day service period [source].
- Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA): see Health cover.
- Domestic medical screening soon after arrival [source].
- Refugee Support Services: jobs, English, childcare, transport, interpreting and case management, up to 5 years [source].
Where to apply
Your state benefits office or nearest resettlement agency. For local providers, contact your State Refugee Coordinator [source, source].
Conflict between sources
The ACF benefits fact sheet (page dated 9 October 2026) still says four months of RCA and RMA for an eligibility date on or after 5 May 2025 [source]. ORR's Dear Colleague Letter 26-05 (revised 1 October 2026) and the Federal Register correction say up to 12 months for an eligibility date on or after 1 January 2026 [source, source]. The newer policy letter appears to govern. Confirm with your provider.