Apr 29, 2020 COVID-19 Resources for Individuals Who Are Undocumented or Uninsured

The State of New Jersey is focused on ensuring that all people, regardless of immigration status and/or whether or not they have health insurance, are protected from the outbreak and receive appropriate testing and treatment.  You should talk to a medical professional about when and how to seek testing and treatment. Please read the following information carefully:

Am I eligible for COVID-19 testing?

  • You must live in New Jersey.
  • Have a cough, fever, and shortness of breath.
  • Complete the COVID-19 Symptom Checker on https://self.covid19.nj.gov/ to see if you should be tested for COVID-19. The tool will help you know what actions you can take to protect you and your loved ones’ health.

Where can I get tested?

  1. Drive-thru Testing Centers. Read each testing center’s requirements before leaving your home. For a list of testing sites and requirements visit: https://covid19.nj.gov/faqs/nj-information/testing-information/where-are-testingcenters-in-new-jersey
    Cost: This is free of charge.
     
  2. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide health care and COVID-19 testing without cost to all people without insurance and without regard to immigration status. Please call your local Federally Qualified Health Center ahead of time for availability and instructions. A list of Federally Qualified Health Centers can be found at: https://www.nj.gov/health/fhs/primarycare/fqhc/.
    Cost: This is free of charge.
     
  3. Hospitals - Charity Care Program. The COVID-19 testing cost will be waived for uninsured individuals eligible for charity care. Information on Charity Care Program can be found at: https://www.nj.gov/health/charitycare/. You should talk to a medical provider before going to your local hospital.

 

Public Charge Rule:

What is Public Charge?

Some people who apply for a green card (lawful permanent residence) or a visa to enter the U.S. must pass a “public charge” test. The “public charge” test requires a person to show that they are not likely to become dependent on specific government programs. The new public charge test considers: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, EBT, Food Stamps), Federal Public Housing and Section 8 assistance, Medicaid (except for emergency services, children under 21 years, pregnant women and new mothers), and cash assistance programs (like SSI, TANF, General Assistance). Please check with your legal services provider if you have any questions.

Can I get tested despite the Public Charge Rule?

Yes, Immigration officials have confirmed that testing, treatment, and preventative care related to COVID-19 will not negatively affect an individual’s public charge analysis.

For more COVID-19 information:

  • Please visit the New Jersey Information Hub at: https://covid19.nj.gov/.
  • Call (General COVID-19 Questions): 2-1-1 (7a-11p)
  • Call (Clinical Questions): 1-800-962-1253 (24/7)
  • Text NJCOVID to 898-211 to receive alerts
  • Mental Health Hotline: 866-202-4357 (8a-8p)

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