DHS investigates state-run support program for elderly and disabled immigrants
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If someone you care about is an older or disabled immigrant living in California, you may have come across recent headlines about a new federal review of a state assistance program.
The news has raised questions for many—especially those who rely on this long-standing program for essential support.
While the details are still unfolding, some advocacy groups and community leaders say the investigation could create uncertainty for individuals who qualify for and currently receive these benefits.
Here’s what’s known so far, why the program is under review, and what it could mean for those affected.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched an investigation into the California Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI)—a state-funded program that provides monthly cash assistance to low-income elderly and disabled immigrants who are lawfully present in the United States.
According to DHS, the review aims to determine whether undocumented immigrants may have improperly received federal benefits over the past four years.
However, no federal funds are used for CAPI, and undocumented individuals are not eligible for the program, according to both state officials and immigrant rights organizations.
“This investigation has no merit because it’s a legal immigrant program,” said Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights in Los Angeles (CHIRLA) in an interview with NBC News.
As part of the investigation, DHS has issued a wide-ranging subpoena to Los Angeles County requesting participant records, including names, birthdates, immigration status, and documents submitted during the application process.
CAPI was created nearly 30 years ago, after 1990s welfare reforms excluded many noncitizens from Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a federal benefit program for qualifying seniors and people with disabilities.
California responded by creating a state program to support immigrants who were legally present but no longer eligible for SSI.
“CAPI was established after Clinton-era welfare reforms excluded most noncitizens from receiving [SSI],” Salas explained.
The state version serves those who hold legal immigration statuses, such as green card holders, asylees, humanitarian parolees, and other qualifying individuals, including victims of trafficking or domestic violence.
Today, about 9,700 people in Los Angeles County receive CAPI benefits, with an average monthly payment of $1,077, according to the California Department of Social Services, which administers the program.
The agency confirmed that the program is “100% funded by the State of California” and that “no federal funding is utilized.”
In 2023, Los Angeles County received $108.56 million in state funding to administer CAPI.
The investigation comes in the wake of a presidential directive signed last month by President Donald Trump, directing DHS to ensure that ineligible individuals do not receive Social Security funds.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “The Trump Administration is working together to identify abuse and exploitation of public benefits and make sure those in this country illegally are not receiving federal benefits or other financial incentives to stay illegally. If you are an illegal immigrant, you should leave now. The gravy train is over.”
While the current subpoena only targets Los Angeles County, Noem added, “It is just the beginning.”
Some community groups have expressed concern that the investigation may cause confusion or discourage eligible individuals from applying for benefits.
This concern is tied to fears that personal information could be misinterpreted or lead to unintended consequences, even for lawful recipients.
The California Immigrant Policy Center issued a statement expressing concern that the review could undermine public confidence in the program or misrepresent its purpose, particularly for those unfamiliar with its guidelines.
At this time, no changes have been made to the CAPI program’s structure or eligibility criteria. However, it’s a good time to review the facts:
As the federal review moves forward, it remains important for individuals and families to stay informed and aware of their rights.
Programs like CAPI continue to operate as intended, and understanding the facts can help communities navigate this period with clarity and confidence.
Read next: Trump’s new immigration strategy offers $1,000 for those who choose to leave—here’s how it works
Have you or a loved one navigated recent changes in benefit eligibility or immigration-related programs? Staying informed is one way we can support one another—today and in the future.
The news has raised questions for many—especially those who rely on this long-standing program for essential support.
While the details are still unfolding, some advocacy groups and community leaders say the investigation could create uncertainty for individuals who qualify for and currently receive these benefits.
Here’s what’s known so far, why the program is under review, and what it could mean for those affected.
California’s CAPI program provides monthly cash assistance to elderly and disabled immigrants who are legally residing in the state. Image Source: YouTube / ABC 7 Chicago.
What is being investigated?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched an investigation into the California Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI)—a state-funded program that provides monthly cash assistance to low-income elderly and disabled immigrants who are lawfully present in the United States.
According to DHS, the review aims to determine whether undocumented immigrants may have improperly received federal benefits over the past four years.
However, no federal funds are used for CAPI, and undocumented individuals are not eligible for the program, according to both state officials and immigrant rights organizations.
“This investigation has no merit because it’s a legal immigrant program,” said Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights in Los Angeles (CHIRLA) in an interview with NBC News.
As part of the investigation, DHS has issued a wide-ranging subpoena to Los Angeles County requesting participant records, including names, birthdates, immigration status, and documents submitted during the application process.
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A state-run safety net
CAPI was created nearly 30 years ago, after 1990s welfare reforms excluded many noncitizens from Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a federal benefit program for qualifying seniors and people with disabilities.
California responded by creating a state program to support immigrants who were legally present but no longer eligible for SSI.
“CAPI was established after Clinton-era welfare reforms excluded most noncitizens from receiving [SSI],” Salas explained.
The state version serves those who hold legal immigration statuses, such as green card holders, asylees, humanitarian parolees, and other qualifying individuals, including victims of trafficking or domestic violence.
Today, about 9,700 people in Los Angeles County receive CAPI benefits, with an average monthly payment of $1,077, according to the California Department of Social Services, which administers the program.
The agency confirmed that the program is “100% funded by the State of California” and that “no federal funding is utilized.”
In 2023, Los Angeles County received $108.56 million in state funding to administer CAPI.
Also read: Is the federal workforce too large? Trump’s perspective and what you need to know
Why now?
The investigation comes in the wake of a presidential directive signed last month by President Donald Trump, directing DHS to ensure that ineligible individuals do not receive Social Security funds.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “The Trump Administration is working together to identify abuse and exploitation of public benefits and make sure those in this country illegally are not receiving federal benefits or other financial incentives to stay illegally. If you are an illegal immigrant, you should leave now. The gravy train is over.”
While the current subpoena only targets Los Angeles County, Noem added, “It is just the beginning.”
What could this mean for older adults and people with disabilities?
Some community groups have expressed concern that the investigation may cause confusion or discourage eligible individuals from applying for benefits.
This concern is tied to fears that personal information could be misinterpreted or lead to unintended consequences, even for lawful recipients.
The California Immigrant Policy Center issued a statement expressing concern that the review could undermine public confidence in the program or misrepresent its purpose, particularly for those unfamiliar with its guidelines.
Also read: Residency for sale? Trump’s “gold card” plan sparks debate
What should you know if you or a loved one receives CAPI?
At this time, no changes have been made to the CAPI program’s structure or eligibility criteria. However, it’s a good time to review the facts:
- Eligibility has not changed: CAPI continues to serve specific categories of legal immigrants who meet income and disability criteria.
- No federal funding: The program is funded entirely by the State of California.
- Privacy and data: DHS has requested records from Los Angeles County, but state officials and legal advocates are reviewing the matter and emphasizing data protections.
- Stay informed: If you have questions about your eligibility or need assistance, organizations such as CHIRLA or the California Immigrant Policy Center can offer support and resources.
As the federal review moves forward, it remains important for individuals and families to stay informed and aware of their rights.
Programs like CAPI continue to operate as intended, and understanding the facts can help communities navigate this period with clarity and confidence.
Read next: Trump’s new immigration strategy offers $1,000 for those who choose to leave—here’s how it works
Have you or a loved one navigated recent changes in benefit eligibility or immigration-related programs? Staying informed is one way we can support one another—today and in the future.
