In times of economic crisis, many workers in the U.S. rely on government assistance checks. But one of the most frequently asked questions within the Hispanic community is: Can undocumented workers receive these checks?
The answer is not simple, but QuéOnnda explains what the laws and available assistance programs say.
Is it possible?
Most federal financial assistance programs, such as the stimulus checks that were awarded during the pandemic, require a valid Social Security number.
Check the official pages of your state or city
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This has left out millions of undocumented workers, even though many pay taxes through an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).
However, some states in the United States have implemented their own financial assistance for undocumented immigrants. For example:
California offers the Undocumented Workers Assistance Fund.
New York created the Excluded Workers Fund for those who did not qualify for federal checks.
Illinois and other states have launched similar programs to support workers without Social Security.
Financial assistance
While the federal government does not provide stimulus checks to the undocumented, community organizations and some cities have developed their own assistance funds.
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Chicago, Los Angeles and Austin have been among the cities that have implemented direct assistance programs.
In addition, there are emergency subsidies offered by NGOs and religious groups that have earmarked resources for those who do not qualify for other government benefits.
How do you know if you qualify?
If you are undocumented in the United States and need financial support, follow these easy steps:
Consult the official pages of your state or city. Look for programs such as “help for excluded workers” or “assistance for immigrants”.
Contact local organizations. Groups such as United We Dream or the National Immigration Law Center can provide guidance.
Check if you pay taxes with an ITIN. Some state aids consider this number for granting benefits.
