Is Using a State Public Service a violation of the Affidavit of Support?

[alexandaaron 13]

Hi, all:

 

Hubby is here, and we've submitted our Adjustment of Status. I understand that the affidavit of support I've signed means that he can't apply for any kind of federal assistance; I must support him. What I'm not clear on is whether we're OK to apply for state public programs? 

 

Here's the sitch: I'm trying to add him to my health insurance, which will be $385/month, as I'm covered under a health care plan that's immensely high-end, and which my employer pays for. We could *possibly* make that work, but we'd have to sell a car and/or turn off our gas. I was advised by my employer's health insurance manager not to bother, but instead (since we're both young and healthy and unlikely to have multiple or recurring issues) to apply for NC Charity Care. In North Carolina, families of 2 making less than $40k qualify for Charity Care at state hospitals (e.g. UNC Hospital, if Hubby broke his arm or something and we had to go in), which subsidizes the cost of care such that the patient only pays ~$100 copay. 

 

My question is this: does our use of this program violate the terms of the Affidavit? Or does this not count since it's a state program? Just trying to be sure we don't risk it all!

[Lemonslice 4,963]

From what I can find on the eligibility criteria, the program seems available only to US citizens.

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

Looks like if they applied it would be a false claim to US citizenship nightmare (  which is a lifetime bar with no waiver )

 

If you can answer yes to all of the following questions and would like to apply for Charity Care, see an Admissions or Front Desk Representative, or call the Financial Assistance Unit toll-free at 866.704.5286.
 
1. Are you a US Citizen?
2. Are you a North Carolina resident?
3. For your family size, does your household income fall at or below the amount listed below?

Family Size	Household Income Limit
1	$29,700
2	$40,050
3	$50,400
4	$60,750
5	$71,100
6	$81,450
7	$91,825
8	$102,225