State-Level Support and Resources for Refugees in Pennsylvania 2025

Key Takeaways

• Refugee Cash Assistance and Medical Assistance are for refugees in Pennsylvania under five years in the U.S.
• Applications require the new RCA AMR form (PA 1994) starting May 5, 2025; incorrect forms are rejected.
• Non-eligible individuals can get help from community groups like HIAS Pennsylvania and Jewish Family and Community Services.

If you are a refugee or asylum seeker in Pennsylvania in 2025, you may be wondering if you qualify for state-level support like Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) and Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA). Understanding the eligibility rules, application steps, and what to do if you do not qualify is important. This guide will help you quickly figure out if you meet the requirements, what documents you need, and what other options are available if you are not eligible.

Who Can get Refugee Cash Assistance and Refugee medical assistance in Pennsylvania?

The main programs for new arrivals are Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) and Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA). These programs give temporary money and health care to help you get started in the United States 🇺🇸. Here are the main rules for who can get these benefits:

Basic Eligibility Criteria

• You must be a refugee. This means you were admitted to the United States 🇺🇸 as a refugee through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), or you have another qualifying status like asylee, victim of trafficking, or certain humanitarian parolees.
• You must have been in the United States 🇺🇸 for less than five years. This is the standard rule, but there are some exceptions for older refugees and those getting special services.
• You must live in Pennsylvania. You need to show you live in the state to get Pennsylvania benefits.
• You must meet income and resource limits. These are similar to other public assistance programs. If you have a job or savings, you may not qualify.
• You must fill out the correct application form. As of May 5, 2025, you must use the new RCA AMR form (PA 1994, Attachment C). This form is required for all new applications.

Who Is Not Eligible?

• You have been in the United States 🇺🇸 for more than five years. Unless you are an older refugee or meet special rules, you will not qualify for RCA or RMA.
• You are not a refugee or do not have a qualifying status. Asylum seekers waiting for a decision, people with tourist or student visas, and undocumented immigrants do not qualify for RCA or RMA.
• You do not live in Pennsylvania. You must apply in the state where you live.
• You have too much income or savings. If your household income is above the set limits, you will not qualify.
• You do not use the correct form. Applications not using the new PA 1994 form will be rejected.

Special Groups That May Qualify

Some groups who are not traditional refugees may still qualify for help:

• Asylees: If you were granted asylum in the United States 🇺🇸, you may qualify for RCA and RMA within five years of your grant date.
• Victims of trafficking: If you have a certification letter from the Office of Refugee Resettlement, you may qualify.
• Certain parolees and special immigrant visa holders: Some people from Afghanistan or Ukraine, for example, may qualify under special rules.

Examples of Who Qualifies and Who Does Not

• Example 1: A family from Syria arrived in the United States 🇺🇸 as refugees in 2023 and moved to Pennsylvania. They have no income and need help. They qualify for RCA and RMA.
• Example 2: An individual from Venezuela is seeking asylum but has not received a decision yet. They do not qualify for RCA or RMA but may get help from community groups.
• Example 3: A refugee from Somalia has lived in the United States 🇺🇸 for six years. They do not qualify for RCA or RMA because they have passed the five-year limit.
• Example 4: An Afghan parolee with a special immigrant visa arrived in 2024. They may qualify for RCA and RMA if they meet other requirements.

How to Apply for Refugee Cash Assistance and Refugee Medical Assistance

If you think you qualify, follow these steps:

1. Contact a Resettlement Agency or the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS).
   • Most refugees are connected to a resettlement agency when they arrive. These agencies help with the application process.
   • If you are not connected to an agency, you can contact the Pennsylvania DHS directly. Visit the official DHS refugee programs page for more information.
2. Fill Out the New RCA AMR Form (PA 1994, Attachment C).
   • As of May 5, 2025, you must use this form for all applications. You can get the form from your resettlement agency or the DHS website.
   • Make sure all information is correct and complete. Missing or wrong information can delay your application.
3. Provide Proof of Status and Residency.
   • You will need to show documents like your I-94 arrival record, refugee travel document, or other proof of your status.
   • You must also show you live in Pennsylvania, such as a lease, utility bill, or letter from your agency.
4. Meet With a Case Manager.
   • A case manager will help you finish your application, check your documents, and answer questions.
   • They will also help you sign up for other services like job training, English classes, and health care.
5. Wait for a Decision.
   • The DHS or your agency will review your application. If approved, you will get monthly cash payments and medical coverage for a set period (usually up to eight months after arrival, but this can vary).

What Happens If You Are Not Eligible?

If you do not qualify for Refugee Cash Assistance or Refugee Medical Assistance, you still have options:

• Community-Based Support: Groups like HIAS Pennsylvania and Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS) offer help to asylum seekers and others who do not qualify for state benefits. They can help with legal advice, finding housing, job search, and sometimes emergency aid.
• Legal Services: If you are an asylum seeker, you can get free or low-cost legal help from HIAS Pennsylvania. They can help you with your asylum case and connect you to other resources.
• Health Care: Some community health centers and clinics offer care to people without insurance. Ask your case manager or local agency for a list of clinics.
• Food and Housing: Food banks, shelters, and faith-based groups can help with basic needs. Your local agency can give you a list of places to go.
• English and Citizenship Classes: Many community groups offer free English classes and help with citizenship applications, even if you do not qualify for RCA or RMA.

How to Improve Your Chances of Qualifying

If you are close to qualifying but are not sure, here are some tips:

• Keep All Your Documents Up to Date: Make sure you have your refugee or asylee documents, proof of address, and any letters from the government.
• Apply Quickly: The five-year rule is strict. Apply as soon as you arrive or get your qualifying status.
• Work With a Case Manager: Agencies like HIAS Pennsylvania and JFCS can help you avoid mistakes and make sure your application is complete.
• Ask About Special Rules: If you are older, have a disability, or are a victim of trafficking, you may have extra protections or exceptions.
• Check for Other Benefits: If you do not qualify for RCA or RMA, you may still qualify for other programs like SNAP (food stamps) or Medicaid, depending on your status.

Other Services Available to Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Pennsylvania

Even if you do not qualify for cash or medical assistance, you can still get help with:

• Employment Assistance: Help finding a job, writing a resume, and job training.
• Education and School Integration: Support for children starting school and help with school supplies.
• Language Services: Free interpretation and translation for people who do not speak English.
• Case Management: Ongoing help with paperwork, appointments, and connecting to services.
• Housing Support: Help finding a place to live, getting furniture, and paying rent in emergencies.
• Advocacy and Community Support: Joining support groups, getting involved in community events, and finding mentors.

Recent Policy Changes and What They Mean for You

• USRAP Suspension: As of January 2025, the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program is not taking new applications while it is under review. However, some people may still be admitted if it is in the national interest and does not pose a security risk. This means fewer new refugees are arriving in Pennsylvania for now, but those already in the state continue to get support.
• New Application Form: The new RCA AMR form (PA 1994) is now required for all applications. This change is meant to make the process faster and more fair, but you must use the correct form or your application will not be processed.

Key Organizations and How to Contact Them

• Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS):
  • Oversees refugee programs and can answer questions about eligibility and applications.
  • Website: DHS Refugee Programs
• HIAS Pennsylvania:
  • Offers legal help, social services, and advocacy for refugees and asylum seekers.
  • Phone/Text: (833) 344-2772
  • Website: HIAS Pennsylvania Services
• Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS):
  • Provides resettlement help, housing support, and community programs.
  • Address: 5743 Bartlett Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
  • Website: JFCS Refugee & Immigrant Services
• Welcoming Refugees 2025 Initiative:
  • Advocacy group working to improve support for refugees in Pennsylvania.
  • Website: Welcoming Refugees 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long can I get Refugee Cash Assistance and Refugee Medical Assistance?
A: Usually, you can get these benefits for up to eight months after you arrive in the United States 🇺🇸 or get your qualifying status. Some exceptions apply for older refugees or those with special needs.

Q: Can asylum seekers get RCA or RMA?
A: No, not until you are granted asylum. While waiting, you can get help from community groups and legal aid organizations.

Q: What if I move to another state?
A: You must apply for benefits in the state where you live. If you move, tell your case manager right away.

Q: What if I am denied benefits?
A: You have the right to appeal. Ask your case manager or legal aid group for help with the appeal process.

Q: Are there other programs for people who do not qualify for RCA or RMA?
A: Yes. Programs like SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, and local aid may be available, depending on your status and income.

Summary Table: Key Services and Who Qualifies

What Should You Do Next?

• If you think you qualify: Contact your resettlement agency or the Pennsylvania DHS right away. Gather your documents and fill out the new RCA AMR form (PA 1994).
• If you are not sure: Talk to a case manager at HIAS Pennsylvania or JFCS. They can help you check your eligibility and apply for the right programs.
• If you do not qualify: Ask about other community resources, legal help, and emergency aid. There are many groups ready to help you get started.

Final Thoughts

Pennsylvania continues to support refugees and asylum seekers with programs like Refugee Cash Assistance and Refugee Medical Assistance, even as federal policies change. The new application form and ongoing community support make it easier for those who qualify to get help. If you are not eligible, do not give up—many organizations are ready to help you with legal, housing, and job support. As reported by VisaVerge.com, staying informed and connected to local agencies is the best way to get the help you need.

For more details and the latest updates, visit the Pennsylvania DHS Refugee Programs page. This official site has the most current forms, rules, and contact information to help you get started.

Learn Today

Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) → Temporary financial support for refugees with less than five years in the United States, helping with basic needs.
Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) → Temporary healthcare coverage for eligible refugees during their initial resettlement period in the U.S.
U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) → Federal program for admitting refugees to the United States, currently under review since January 2025.
Asylee → A person granted protection in the U.S. after seeking asylum due to persecution or fear of harm.
RCA AMR Form (PA 1994) → The new required Pennsylvania application form for Refugee Cash and Medical Assistance, effective May 5, 2025.

This Article in a Nutshell

Pennsylvania offers Refugee Cash Assistance and Medical Assistance with new rules starting May 2025. Refugees under five years and some special groups qualify. Community organizations provide alternative aid for those ineligible. Accurate applications, residency proof, and quick action maximize your chances. Stay informed for best support through official agencies and legal help.
— By VisaVerge.com