The Biden Administration to Broaden Medical Benefits for Individuals Under DACA

Posted by Berd & Klauss, PLLC on June 7th, 2024

Among the biggest challenges young immigrants in the USface is access to healthcare. The good news is that those who belong to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program will soon qualify for federal healthcare coverage via the Affordable Care Act. This should benefit over 100,000 young immigrants under DACA’s protection.

Since 2012, the DACA program has provided work permits and deportation relief to undocumented immigrants brought to the US when they were children. Unfortunately, these individuals were excluded from federal health insurance programs. However, with the policy change taking effect on November 1, 2024, healthcare access will soon be extended to previously uninsured DACA recipients.

How young immigrants can benefit from this

Around 100,000 DACA participants can expect financial assistance, reduced out-of-pocket costs, and tax credits from this program. President Joe Biden emphasized that these young immigrants (often referred to as Dreamers) deserve access to health care just like everyone else. He highlighted their significant contributions to the US economy as small business owners, nurses, and teachers.

Additionally, Secretary Xavier Becerra of the Department of Health and Human Services noted that DACA recipients are three times more likely to be uninsured compared to the general population. Without insurance, these individuals are less likely to seek preventative care. Currently, over one-third of DACA participants do not have health insurance, but the policy change from November 1, 2024, should encourage them to enroll in coverage. This is not just a step to improve their health and well-being but a move to help the overall economy.

What it means for the Dreamers

Here are important points about the policy change:

• Qualified DACA recipients can sign up for a Marketplace plan to receive APTC (advance payments of premium tax credit) and CSRs (cost-sharing reductions) based on income.
• The new federal rule will allow DACA recipients to enroll within a 60-day special period following its effective date (November 1, 2024).
• The special enrollment period meets the 2025 Open Enrollment Period to simplify the process for DACA participants.
• Those who sign up for coverage in November 2024 may start their Marketplace coverage as early as December 1, 2024, as long as they meet all eligibility requirements.
• Other eligible individuals, including DACA recipients, can apply for and get coverage from November 1, 2024, if they are qualified for a BHP (Basic Health Program).

If you need help with your DACA Status, don’t hesitate to contact a NY visa lawyer at Berd & Klauss, PLLC. The boutique full-service immigration law firm has a track record of helping families and individuals with permanent residence, US citizenship, visas, and employment. Book an appointment with an NY visa lawyer by calling 212-461-7152.

About the Author:

This content is written by Patrick Klauss, Esq, an immigration lawyer and a partner at Berd & Klauss, PLLC. The firm specializes in immigration & immigration-related issues and handles everything from immigrant visas to deportation and waivers.