Do agencies have to implement deeming right away?
The new deeming requirements apply only to immigrants whose sponsors sign new affidavits of support (Form I-864). Therefore, no new deeming will occur until December 19, 1997. However, since most immigrants who enter the United States after August 22, 1996, are barred from receiving Federal means-tested public benefits for their first 5 years in the United States, there will be no new deeming for Federal means-tested public benefits for approximately 5 years, with one exception. Deeming for Federal means-tested programs may take place sooner for aliens who are veterans, active duty servicemen, or their families since they are not barred from receiving these benefits. States may choose to deem sponsor income and resources in determining eligibility for their programs for immigrants sponsored under the new affidavit of support. Deeming could begin to occur very soon in those States which do not bar access of immigrants to their means-tested public benefits.
