Does USCIS check social media for immigration applications?

Yes, USCIS and the Department of State review publicly available social media profiles to verify information provided in visa and green card applications.

Do I have to provide my social media handles to USCIS?

Applicants for most immigrant and non-immigrant visas are required to provide their social media identifiers used on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the past five years.

Can social media activity lead to a visa denial?

Yes, if social media content reveals inconsistencies with your application or provides evidence of fraud or security threats, it can lead to a denial.

New Public Charge Rule 2026: Chicago Green Card Guide

September 28, 2026
Adjustment of Status, Family-Based Immigration, Green Card, Immigration & Naturalization Law, Public Benefits & Public Charge Rule

A significant change to U.S. immigration law affecting green card applications in Chicago took effect on September 18, 2026. If you are a Chicago green card applicant applying through adjustment of status, this change directly affects you. This post explains what happened, what it means in plain language, and what you should do if you are currently receiving public benefits.

What Is the Public Charge Rule?

The public charge rule is a longstanding part of U.S. immigration law. It allows USCIS to deny a green card application if an officer determines that the applicant is likely to become primarily dependent on government support.

The rule applies to people applying for lawful permanent residence, a green card; inside the United States through Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status. It does not apply to people who already have a green card, and it does not apply to people seeking naturalization.

What Changed on September 18, 2026?

The Department of Homeland Security rescinded the 2022 public charge regulations and gave immigration officers significantly broader discretion in how they evaluate green card applicants.

Under the old 2022 rule, only two things could be counted against you: cash assistance for income maintenance (such as SSI or TANF) and long-term institutional care paid for by the government.

Under the new public charge rule, for benefits received on or after September 18, 2026, officers may now consider any means-tested public benefit, meaning any benefit provided based on income level. This includes food stamps (SNAP), housing assistance (Section 8), and Medicaid, among others. Benefits received before September 18, 2026 are still evaluated under the old, narrower standard and generally will not count against you.

Does Receiving a Benefit Automatically Hurt My Case?

No. Receiving a public benefit does not automatically result in a denial. USCIS officers are required to look at the totality of your circumstances, the full picture of who you are and your ability to support yourself.

The five factors they must consider are your age, health, family situation, financial resources, and education and work history. A strong Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from your sponsor remains an important part of your case, though it is no longer the only thing that matters.

Who Is Exempt from the Public Charge Rule?

Many immigrants are not subject to the public charge test at all. The following categories are exempt:

Refugees and asylees
VAWA self-petitioners (victims of domestic violence)
U visa holders (victims of crime)
Special immigrant juveniles
T visa holders (victims of trafficking)
Applicants for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

If you are unsure whether the public charge rule applies to your category, contact our office before filing.

Important: New Form I-485 Edition Required

Applications for adjustment of status filed on or after September 18, 2026 must use the new 09/18/26 edition of Form I-485. There is no grace period. If you file using an older version of the form, USCIS will reject your application. Always download the current form directly from uscis.gov immediately before filing.

What Should You Do If You Are Currently Receiving Benefits?

Do not make any decisions about stopping or withdrawing from public benefits without first speaking with an immigration attorney. The decision is not straightforward, stopping benefits may not necessarily help your case and could cause real hardship for your family. What matters is how the full picture of your circumstances is presented in your application.

If you are planning to file Form I-485 and you are currently receiving SNAP, Medicaid, housing assistance, or any other means-tested benefit, consult with an experienced Chicago immigration attorney before filing to understand how the new rule may affect your specific case.

Working with a Chicago Immigration Lawyer

The new public charge rule gives immigration officers more discretion, which means preparation and presentation of your case matter more than ever. A well-documented, carefully prepared I-485 application can make a significant difference in how an officer evaluates your circumstances.

The Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. has guided clients throughout Chicago and the Chicagoland area through the adjustment of status process for over 26 years. We stay current on every policy change so our clients do not have to navigate them alone.

Contact Us Today for Expert Immigration Legal Services

If you have questions about the new public charge rule, your adjustment of status application, or any other immigration matter, please contact the Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. by e-mailing us at azita@azitalaw.com or calling 312.641.0771. We serve clients throughout Chicago, Illinois and the greater Chicagoland area.

Azita M. Mojarad

Azita M. Mojarad is the founder of the Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. For over 20 years, she has helped thousands of clients with immigration, divorce, criminal defense, and business law matters in Chicago and the greater Illinois area. She holds a J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and an M.B.A. from North Park University. Azita is AV Preeminent Rated by Martindale-Hubbell and recognized as a Leading Lawyer in Immigration and Divorce by the Leading Lawyers Network since 2012.