An immigrant was told they no longer qualify for SNAP or Medicaid
Use when an immigrant (refugee, asylee, parolee or other status) got a letter that SNAP or Medicaid is ending, or a mixed-status family is unsure which benefits are still safe to use.
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
SNAP: Since January 1, 2026, SNAP is only for citizens, green card holders (some adults wait 5 years), certain Cuban and Haitian entrants, and COFA citizens.
Refugees, asylees, parolees and some others lost SNAP at their renewal, unless they now have a green card.
Medicaid: Since October 1, 2026, a similar rule applies to adult Medicaid.
Children under 21 and pregnant people who are here lawfully still qualify for New Mexico Medicaid, with no waiting period.
Green card holders who were once refugees or asylees do not have the 5-year wait for SNAP.
New Mexico paid a one-time state benefit on the EBT card to many households who lost SNAP for this reason after January 1, 2026. They had to finish their renewal first. Tell them to keep their EBT card.
Family members who still qualify, like citizen children, can keep or get SNAP. The parent only gives status and Social Security numbers for the people asking for benefits.
NM Health Care Authority - Income Support Division (Grant County office)
3088 32nd St Bypass, Suite A, Silver City · Lobby Mon-Fri 8:00 am-4:30 pm, closed 12:00-1:30 pm for lunch. Phone line (1-800-283-4465) Mon-Fri 7:00 am-6:30 pm.
At the Gospel MissionBreakfast and lunch on weekdays, the food pantry, monthly food boxes, Thursday Morning Market and weekend snack bags. Everyone is welcome.
WIC and free school meals do not require any immigration status.
New Mexico made a state program for immigrants who had Medicaid on September 30, 2026 (refugees, asylees, trafficking victims, parolees and others). Most got a letter from BeWell New Mexico on how to enroll. Help them follow it.
Public charge rules got stricter on September 18, 2026. Immigration officers may now look at SNAP, Medicaid and other benefits used after that date, sometimes even by family members.
Public charge applies only to some people, mainly those applying for a green card through family or for some visas. It does not apply to refugees or asylees, or to green card holders applying to become citizens.
You can say"Before you apply for or cancel any benefit, talk to a free immigration lawyer. Every family is different."
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.