Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants

M-618 (rev. 09/15)

Welcome to the United States

A Guide for New Immigrants

Welcome to the United States

A Guide for New Immigrants

U.S. GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL EDITION NOTICE

This is the Official U.S. Government edition of this publication and is herein

identified to certify its authenticity. Use of the ISBN 978-0-16-092967-0 is for

U.S. Government Publishing Office Official Editions only. The Superintendent

of Documents of the U.S. Government Publishing Office requests that any

reprinted edition clearly be labeled as a copy of the authentic work with a

new ISBN.

The information presented in Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants

is considered public information and may be distributed or copied without

alteration unless otherwise specified. The citation should be:

U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration

Services, Office of Citizenship, Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New

Immigrants, Washington, DC, 2015.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has purchased the right

to use many of the images in Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants.

USCIS is licensed to use these images on a non-exclusive and non-transferable

basis. All other rights to the images, including without limitation and

the public domain and may not be used except as they appear as part of this

guide.

This guide contains information on a variety of topics that are not within the

jurisdiction of U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/USCIS. If you

have a question about a non-DHS/USCIS issue, please refer directly to the

responsible agency or organization for the most current information. This

information is correct at the time of printing, however, it may change in the

future.

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ISBN 978-0-16-092967-0

I S B N 978-0-16-092967-0

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Table of Contents

Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants ............ 1

Federal Departments and Agencies ...............................2

The United States Today ........................................3

Federal Holidays .............................................4

Contact USCIS ...............................................5

About This Guide ................................................7

Where to Get Help ...........................................8

USCIS Online Resources ......................................10

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Permanent Resident ............13

Your Rights and Responsibilities ................................14

Maintaining Your Permanent Resident Status .......................16

If You Are a Conditional Permanent Resident ......................19

Finding Legal Assistance ......................................21

Consequences of Criminal Behavior for Permanent Residents ..........24

Getting Settled in the United States ................................27

Get a Social Security Number ..................................28

Find a Place to Live ..........................................30

Look for a Job ..............................................35

Child Care .................................................41

Transportation .............................................43

Taking Care of Your Money .......................................47

Personal Finance ............................................48

Paying Taxes ...............................................51

Protect Yourself and Your Money ................................53

Understanding Education and Health Care ..........................57

Education in the United States ..................................58

Higher Education: Colleges and Universities .......................65

Adult Education ............................................67

Learn English ..............................................68

Health Care ................................................69

Other Federal Benefits Programs ................................72

Keeping Your Home and Family Safe ...............................75

Be Prepared ................................................76

Stay Informed ..............................................78

Respond to an Emergency .....................................79

Learning About the United States ..................................83

We the People: The Role of the Citizen in the United States ............84

How the United States Began ..................................85

Creating “A More Perfect Union” ...............................87

How the Federal Government Works .............................90

The Legislative Branch: Congress ................................91

The Executive Branch: The President .............................93

The Judicial Branch: The Supreme Court ..........................93

State and Local Government ...................................94

Experience the United States ...................................95

Becoming a U.S. Citizen ..........................................97

Why Become a U.S. Citizen? ...................................98

Naturalization: Becoming a U.S. Citizen ..........................100

You’re on Your Way .........................................107

Welcome to the United States

A Guide for New Immigrants

Congratulations on becoming a permanent resident of the United States of

America! On behalf of the president of the United States and the American

people, we welcome you and wish you every success here.

The United States has a long history of welcoming immigrants from all parts

of the world. America values the contributions of immigrants who continue

to enrich this country and preserve its legacy as a land of freedom and

opportunity.

As a permanent resident of the United States, you have made a decision to call

this country your home. As you work to achieve your goals, take time to get

to know this country, its history, and its people. It is now both your right and

your responsibility to shape the future of the United States and to ensure its

continued success.

Exciting opportunities await you as you begin your life as a permanent

resident of this great country. Welcome to the United States!

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Federal Departments and

Agencies

If you have a question and do not know which department can answer it,

call 1-800-FED-INFO (or 1-800-333-4636). If you are hearing impaired, call

1-800-326-2996.

You can also visit www.usa.gov for general information about federal

departments and agencies.

U.S. Department of Education (ED)

Phone: 1-800-USA-LEARN

Phone: 1-800-872-5327

For hearing impaired: 1-800-437-0833

www.ed.gov

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

Phone: 1-800-669-4000

For hearing impaired: 1-800-669-6820

www.eeoc.gov

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

Phone: 1-877-696-6775

www.hhs.gov

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Phone: 202-282-8000

www.dhs.gov

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Phone: 1-800-375-5283

For hearing impaired: 1-800-767-1833

www.uscis.gov

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Phone: 202-354-1000

www.cbp.gov

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

www.ice.gov

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

(HUD)

Phone: 202-708-1112

For hearing impaired: 202-708-1455

www.hud.gov

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)

Phone: 202-514-2000

www.justice.gov

U.S. Department of the Treasury

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Phone: 1-800-829-1040

For hearing impaired: 1-800-829-4059

www.irs.gov

Selective Service System (SSS)

Phone: 1-888-655-1825

Phone: 847-688-6888

For hearing impaired: 847-688-2567

www.sss.gov

Social Security Administration (SSA)

Phone: 1-800-772-1213

For hearing impaired: 1-800-325-0778

www.socialsecurity.gov or www.segurosocial.gov/espanol

U.S. Department of State (DOS)

Phone: 202-647-4000

For hearing impaired: 1-800-877-8339

www.state.gov

Massachusetts

Rhode Island

Connecticut

New Jersey

Delaware

Maryland

Maine

New Hampshire

New

York

Vermont

Pennsylvania

Ohio

Alaska

Hawaii

Texas

New

Mexico

Arizona

Utah

Nevada

California

Oregon

Washington

Idaho

Montana

Wyoming

Colorado

Oklahoma

Kansas

Nebraska

South

Dakota

North

Dakota

Minnesota

Iowa

Wisconsin

Missouri

Arkansas

Louisiana

Mississippi

Alabama

Georgia

South Carolina

North

Carolina

Florida

Virginia

Tennessee

Kentucky

Illinois

Michigan

Indiana

West Virginia

Washington, DC

The United States Today

The United States also includes the territories of Guam, American Samoa, the

U.S. Virgin Islands, and the commonwealths of the Northern Mariana Islands

and Puerto Rico, which do not appear on this map.

Federal Holidays

Most federal offices are closed on official holidays. If a holiday falls on

a Saturday, it is observed on the preceding Friday. If a holiday falls on a

Sunday, it is observed on the following Monday. Many non-government

employers also give their employees a holiday on these days. The federal

government observes the following official holidays.

New Year’s Day January 1

Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. 3rd Monday in January

Presidents’ Day 3rd Monday in February

Memorial Day Last Monday in May

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day 1st Monday in September

Columbus Day 2nd Monday in October

Veterans Day November 11

Thanksgiving Day 4th Thursday in November

Christmas Day December 25

Contact USCIS

Visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov and www.welcometousa.gov, a

resource for new immigrants.

Call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283 or 1-800-767-1833 (for hearing

impaired).

To get forms, visit the USCIS website or call the USCIS Forms Line at

1-800-870-3676.

About This Guide

This guide contains basic information to help you settle in the United States and find what you and your

family need for everyday life. It also summarizes important information about your legal status and about

agencies and organizations that provide documents or essential services you may need.

As a permanent resident, you should begin to learn about this country, its

people, and its system of government. Use this guide to find out about your

rights and responsibilities as an immigrant and to understand how federal,

state, and local governments work. You can also learn about important

historical events that have shaped the United States, as well as the importance

of getting involved in your community and suggestions on how to do so.

This guide provides a general summary of rights, responsibilities, and

procedures related to permanent residents. To get more specific and detailed

information, you should consult the laws, regulations, forms, and guidance of

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You should always consult

these more detailed resources for your specific immigration question or case.

You can find this information on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov. You

can obtain USCIS forms on the website or by calling the USCIS Forms Line at

1-800-870-3676. For more information, call Customer Service at 1-800-375-

5283 or 1-800-767-1833 (for hearing impaired).

Where to Get Help

This guide will help you get started, but it cannot answer all the questions

you might have about life in the United States. For additional information, you

can contact a state, county, or city government office to learn about available

services or consult with local organizations that help new immigrants. You

can find these offices and organizations by using the free resources described

below.

The Public Library

Public libraries in the United States are free and

open to everyone. Libraries are located in almost

every community. The library staff can help you

find information on many topics and can give you

a library card that allows you to borrow items, such

as books, DVDs, and other resources, free of charge.

Most libraries also have local newspapers for you to

read and computers that you can use to access the

Internet.

Some libraries offer free computer classes, English language instruction, and

other programs for children and adults. Ask the library staff about the services

offered in your community. To find a library near you, visit www.nces.ed.gov.

The Phone Book

Your local phone book (telephone directory) contains phone

numbers and important information about federal, state, and

local community services. The phone book has emergency

information, local maps, and information about how to

get phone service. The white pages list phone numbers of

individuals and the yellow pages list phone numbers and

addresses for businesses and organizations. You can also dial

411 on your phone to get a specific phone number anywhere

in the United States. You may have to pay a fee when calling

411.

The Internet

The Internet can link you to many sources of information, including the

websites of federal, state, and local government agencies. Most governme

websites end with “.gov.” If you do not have a computer at

home, you can use one in your public library. You can use

the Internet to search for jobs, find housing, learn about

schools, and locate community organizations and

resources to help you. You can also use the Internet

to learn about important news and current events,

and to discover interesting information about life

in America, U.S. history and government, and your

local community. To locate federal government

resources available to new immigrants, visit www.

welcometousa.gov.

Community and Faith-Based Organizations That

Assist Immigrants

There are organizations in many communities that provide free or very low-

cost assistance to immigrants. These organizations can help you learn about

your community and the services available to you as an immigrant. You can

find these organizations by searching the Internet, looking in your local

phone book, asking the staff at the public library, or by contacting your local

government social service agency.

USCIS Online Resources

USCIS has a variety of helpful online resources available. These resources

provide information about immigration topics, processing times, case status,

fees, and other benefits.

Online ResOuRces

If you want to: Visit:

Check your case status, view processing times, sign up for

www.uscis.gov

status updates, or find your nearest USCIS office

Check current filing fees www.uscis.gov/fees

Schedule a free INFOPASS appointment

http://infopass.uscis.gov

with a USCIS Officer

As an immigrant, you should be aware that dishonest people have made fake

websites that look like government websites to confuse you and take advantage of

you. Remember, the official website of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is

www.uscis.gov.

TIP

1111

More Information for New Immigrants

Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants is available in additional languages at

www.uscis.gov/newimmigrants.

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Your Rights and Responsibilities as a

Permanent Resident

As a permanent resident, you are expected to consider the United States your home and to respect

and obey this country’s laws. Being a permanent resident also means that you have new rights and

responsibilities.

Being a permanent resident is a privilege, not a right. The U.S. government can take away your

permanent resident status under certain conditions. You must maintain your permanent resident status if

you want to live and work in the United States and become a citizen one day.

In this section, you will learn what it means to be a permanent resident and what you need to do to

maintain your permanent resident status.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Your conduct as a permanent resident can affect your ability to become a U.S.

citizen later. The process of becoming a U.S. citizen is called naturalization.

As a permanent resident, you have the right to:

●

Live permanently anywhere in the United States.

●

Work in the United States.

●

Own property in the United States.

●

Attend public school.

●

Apply for a driver’s license in your state or territory.

●

Join certain branches of the U.S. armed forces.

●

Receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare

benefits, if you are eligible.

●

Apply to become a U.S. citizen once you are eligible.

●

Request visas for your spouse and unmarried children to live in the United

States.

●

Leave and return to the United States under certain conditions.

As a permanent resident, you must:

●

Obey all federal, state, and local laws.

●

Pay federal, state, and local income taxes.

●

forces), if you are a male between the ages of 18

and 26. See page 18 for instructions.

●

Maintain your immigration status.

●

Carry proof of your permanent resident status at

all times.

●

Change your address online or provide it in writing

to USCIS within 10 days of each time you move. See

page 19 for instructions.

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What You Can Do

As a permanent resident, you have many rights and freedoms. In return, you have some responsibilities. One

important responsibility is to get involved in your community. You should also learn about American culture, history,

and government. You can do this by taking adult education classes and reading local newspapers.

Permanent residents are issued a valid Permanent Resident Card (Form

I-551) as proof of their legal status in the United States. Some people call

this a “Green Card.” If you are immigrating to the United States and will be

admitted as a permanent resident, you must pay the USCIS immigrant fee. You

pay this fee online through the USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS

ELIS) at www.uscis.gov/uscis-elis. Please note that you

will not receive your Permanent Resident Card until

you have paid the USCIS immigrant fee. If you became a

permanent resident by adjusting your status while you

were in the United States, you pay only the Form I-485,

Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust

Status, filing fee and not the USCIS immigrant fee.

If you are a permanent resident who is 18 years old

or older, you must carry proof of your immigration

status. You must show it to an immigration officer or

law enforcement officer if asked for it. Your Permanent

Resident Card can be valid for 10 years, and you must

renew it before it expires or if your name changes. To replace or renew

your Permanent Resident Card, you must file Form I-90, Application to

Replace Permanent Resident Card. There is a fee to file Form I-90. You can

get this form online at www.uscis.gov or by calling the USCIS Forms Line at

1-800-870-3676. If you are a conditional permanent resident (CR) through

marriage or entrepreneurship, you were issued a two-year card. Do not use

Form I-90 to apply for an extension or renewal of your status. Instead, you

must file for removal of your conditions before your card expires. See page

19 for instructions on how to remove the conditions on your permanent

resident status.

Your Permanent Resident Card shows that you are allowed to live and work

in the United States. You can also use your Permanent Resident Card to re-

enter the United States after traveling abroad. If you are outside of the United

States for more than 12 months, then you will need to show additional

documentation to re-enter the country as a permanent resident. For more

information on these documents, see page 17.

Maintaining Your Permanent

Resident Status

Once you have obtained permanent resident status, you will continue to

be a permanent resident unless your status changes as provided under U.S.

immigration law. One way you can lose permanent resident status is by

abandoning it. You abandon your permanent resident status by leaving the

United States to live abroad permanently with the intent of giving up your

permanent resident status. Your conduct will demonstrate your actual intent.

There are some things you can do to decrease the possibility that the U.S.

government will find that you have abandoned your status:

●

Do not leave the United States for an extended period

of time unless the circumstances show that your trip

is for a temporary purpose (for example, to attend

school, take a temporary job, or care for a family

member). If you are absent for a year or longer, you

cannot use your Permanent Resident Card to enter the

United States.

●

If something happens that delays your return, be

prepared to explain the reason(s) for the delay.

●

File federal and, if applicable, state, and local income

tax returns.

●

and 26.

●

Give your new address to USCIS within 10 days of each time you move.

Safeguard Important Documents

Keep important documents that you brought from your home country in a safe place.

Examples of important documents include: a passport, birth certificate, marriage

certificate, divorce certificate, diplomas showing that you have graduated from high

school or college, and/or certificates that show you have special training or skills.

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Keep Your Immigration Status

Some immigrants believe they can live abroad and keep their permanent

resident status as long as they return to the United States at least once a year,

but this assumption is incorrect. Travel to the United States once a year may

not be sufficient to maintain your status. Permanent residents may travel

outside the United States, and temporary or brief travel usually does not

affect your permanent resident status. If you leave the country for too long

or indicate in another way that you do not intend to make the United States

your permanent home, the U.S. government may determine that you have

abandoned your permanent resident status. This can also occur if you take a

trip that is between six months and a year, if there is evidence that you did

not intend to make the United States your permanent home.

You can use your Permanent Resident Card as a travel document for returning

to the United States if you have not been abroad for a year or more. If you

think you will be out of the United States for more than 12 months, you

should apply for a re-entry permit before leaving the country by filing Form

I-131, Application for a Travel Document. You must pay a fee to file Form

I-131. You can get Form I-131 at www.uscis.gov or by calling the USCIS

Forms Line at 1-800-870-3676.

A re-entry permit is valid for up to two years. At a port of entry, you may

show the re-entry permit instead of a visa or Permanent Resident Card.

Having a re-entry permit does not guarantee that you will be admitted to

the United States when you return, but it can make it easier to show that you

are returning from a temporary visit abroad. If you would like additional

information about international travel as a permanent resident, please visit

www.uscis.gov.

You should also be aware that—regardless of whether you might have

abandoned your permanent resident status—you are subject to a full

immigration inspection as an applicant for admission any time you have been

abroad for at least 181 days, or in other situations specified in immigration

l aw.

File Tax Returns

As a permanent resident, you must file income tax returns and report your

income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as well as to your state, city,

or local tax department, if required. If you do not file income tax

returns while living outside of the United States for any length

of time, or if you say that you are a non-immigrant on your

tax returns, the U.S. government may decide that you

have given up your permanent resident status.

Service

All men between the ages of 18 and 26 years old

must register with the Selective Service. Males

who obtained their immigrant visa or adjusted

their status at that age may have automatically been

registered with the Selective Service. If so, you should

have received information in the mail stating that you

are registered.If you are unsure if you are registered, speak

with someone from the Selective Service who can check your

record. You can also check on the Selective Service website at www.

sss.gov. When you register, you tell the government that you are available to

serve in the U.S. armed forces. The United States does not have a military draft

now, but men between the ages of 18 and 26 are still required to register.

Unless they want to, permanent residents and U.S. citizens do not have to

serve in the armed forces.

You can register at a U.S. post office or on the Internet. To register for

Selective Service on the Internet, visit the Selective Service System at

www.sss.gov. To speak with someone from the Selective Service, call 847-

688-6888. This is not a free call.

You can also find information on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.

1919

Give Your New Address to USCIS

You must notify USCIS if you change your address. File Form AR-11, Change

of Address, within 10 days of your relocation. For information on filing a

change of address, go to the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/addresschange

or call Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283. You must notify USCIS each

time you change your address.

For more information, call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 or visit www.uscis.gov.

If You Are a Conditional

Permanent Resident

You may be in the United States as a conditional permanent resident (CR).

You are a CR if you were married for less than two years to your U.S. citizen

or permanent resident spouse on the day your permanent resident status was

granted. If you have children, they also may be CRs.

See Form I-751, Petition to Remove the Conditions

on Residence, for instructions on the filing process

for children. Some immigrant investors are also

CRs.

A CR has the same rights and responsibilities as

a permanent resident. Conditional permanent

residents must file Form I-751, and immigrant

investors must file Form I-829, Petition by

Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions, within two

years of the date they were granted conditional

permanent resident status. This date is usually the

expiration date of your Permanent Resident Card.

You should file these forms within the 90-day period prior to the two-year

anniversary of when you got your conditional permanent residence. If you do

not do this, you could lose your immigration status.

Filing Form I-751 with Your Husband or Wife

If you are a CR and you immigrated based on your marriage to a U.S. citizen

or permanent resident, then you and your spouse must file Form I-751

together so that you can remove the conditions on your permanent resident

status.

Sometimes, you do not have to file Form I-751 with your husband or

wife. If you are no longer married to your spouse or if your spouse abused

you, you can file Form I-751 by yourself. You can also file Form I-751

by yourself if deportation from the United States would result in extreme

hardship. If you are not applying with your spouse, you can file Form I-751

at any time after you become a CR.

Filing USCIS Forms I-751 and I-829

Who: Conditional permanent resident (CR)

Why: Conditional permanent resident status expires two years after the date you became a CR.

When: Conditional permanent resident filing together with his or her spouse must file Form I-751. Immigrant investors

must file Form I-829. Both of these forms must be filed within the 90 days before conditional permanent residence

status expires. The expiration date is on your Permanent Resident Card.

Where to get the form: You can get the form at www.uscis.gov or by calling the USCIS Forms Line at 1-800-870-

3676.

Where to send the form: Send it to a USCIS service center. The addresses of the service centers are in the

instructions for the form.

What it costs: You must pay a fee to file Form I-751 or Form I-829. Before you submit the form, check for the most

current USCIS filing fees at www.uscis.gov/fees.

If you file Form I-751 or Form I-829 on time, USCIS will usually send you a notice extending your CR status for up to

12 months. During this time, USCIS will review your application.

2121

Finding Legal Assistance

If you need help with an immigration issue, you can use the services of a

licensed immigration lawyer. You can check with your local bar association

for help finding a qualified lawyer.

Some states certify specialists in immigration law.

These attorneys have passed tests to prove that they

have special knowledge about immigration law. The

following states currently list certified specialists on

their state bar websites: California, Florida, North

Carolina, and Texas. Note: You are responsible for

determining whether to hire an attorney. USCIS

does not endorse or recommend any particular

attorney.

TIP

Keep several copies of all forms you send to USCIS and other government offices.

Send copies, not originals. Sometimes forms get lost, so keeping copies can help

avoid problems.

If You Are a Victim of Domestic Abuse

If you are a victim of domestic abuse, you can find help through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-

799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (for hearing impaired). Help is available in Spanish and other languages.

The Violence Against Women Act allows abused spouses and children of U.S. citizens and permanent residents to

self-petition, or file their own petition, to become a permanent resident. See www.uscis.gov or call the National

Domestic Violence Hotline for more information.

If you need legal help on an immigration issue but do not have enough

money to hire a lawyer, there are some low-cost or free assistance options.

Consider asking for assistance from one of the following places:

●

A Recognized Organization: Organizations that are recognized by

the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). For an organization to be

recognized, it must have enough knowledge and experience to provide

services to immigrants. A recognized organization can charge or accept

only very small fees for those services. For a list of these BIA-recognized

organizations, visit www.justice.gov/eoir/recognition-accreditation-

roster-reports.

●

An Accredited Representative: People who are connected to BIA-

recognized organizations. These representatives can charge or accept

only very small fees for their services. For a list of these BIA-accredited

representatives, visit www.justice.gov/eoir/recognition-accreditation-

roster-reports.

●

A Qualified Representative: People who will provide free services. These

representatives must know about immigration law and the rules of practice

in court. Law school students and graduates, and people with good moral

character who have a personal or professional affiliation with you (relative,

neighbor, clergy, co-worker, or friend) are all examples of qualified

representatives.

●

Free Legal Service Providers: The Department of Justice has a list of

recognized free legal service providers for people who are in immigration

proceedings. This is a list of attorneys and organizations that may be

willing to represent immigrants in proceedings before immigration courts.

The attorneys and organizations on this list have agreed to help immigrants

pro bono (free of charge) only in immigration proceedings. Some of them

may not be able to help you with non-court-related matters, such as visa

petitions, naturalization, etc. The list is available at www.justice.gov/

eoir/free-legal-services-providers.

●

Pro Bono Program: Local lists of recognized pro bono organizations and

their representatives are usually available at each local USCIS office.

For more information about finding legal services, please visit

www.uscis.gov/legaladvice.

Beware of Immigration Fraud

Many immigration practitioners are well qualified and honest, and they can

provide good services to immigrants, however, there are some people who

take advantage of immigrants.

2323

Before you decide to get help with immigration matters and before you pay

any money, you should do research so you can make the right decision about

what kind of legal help you need. Protect yourself from becoming a victim of

immigration fraud.

Important things to remember:

●

No private organization or person offering help with immigration issues

has a special connection with USCIS. Ask questions of people who make

promises that sound too good to be true or who claim to have a special

relationship with USCIS. Do not trust people who guarantee results or

faster processing. If you are not eligible for an immigration benefit, using

an immigration lawyer or consultant will not

change that fact.

●

Some consultants, travel agencies, real estate

offices, and people called “notaries public”

offer immigration services. Be sure to ask

questions about their qualifications and ask to

see copies of their BIA accreditation letter or bar certificate. Some people

who say they are qualified to offer legal services are not. These people can

make mistakes that could put your immigration status at risk and cause

serious problems for you.

●

If you use an immigration consultant or lawyer, get a written contract. The

contract should be in both English and in your native language (if English

is not your native language). The contract should list all services that will

be provided to you and how much they will cost. Ask for references before

you sign the contract.

●

Try to avoid paying cash for services. Make sure you get a receipt for your

payment. Be sure to keep your original documents.

●

Never sign a blank form or application. Make sure you understand what

you are signing.

For more information about how to protect yourself from becoming a victim

of immigration fraud, visit www.uscis.gov/avoidscams.

Get help if an immigration consultant has cheated you. Call your state or local

district attorney, consumer affairs department, or local police department. You

can also contact the Federal Trade Commission to report the unauthorized

practice of immigration law by visiting www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov.

Consequences of Criminal Behavior for

Permanent Residents

The United States is a law-abiding society. Permanent residents in the United States must obey all laws. If

you are a permanent resident and engage in or are convicted of a crime in the United States, you could

have serious problems. You could be removed from the country, refused re-entry into the United States

if you leave the country, lose your permanent resident status, and, in certain circumstances, lose your

eligibility for U.S. citizenship.

Examples of crimes that may affect your permanent

resident status include:

●

A crime defined as an aggravated felony, which

includes crimes of violence that are felonies with

a one-year prison term;

●

Murder;

●

Rape;

●

Sexual assault against a child;

●

Illegal trafficking in drugs, firearms, or people;

and

●

A crime of moral turpitude, which, in general, is a crime with an intent to steal or defraud, a crime

where physical harm is done or threatened, a crime where serious physical harm is caused by reckless

behavior, or a crime of sexual misconduct.

There are also serious consequences for you as a permanent resident if you:

●

Lie to get immigration benefits for yourself or someone else;

●

Say you are a U.S. citizen if you are not;

●

Vote in a federal election or in a state or local election open only to U.S. citizens;

●

Are a habitual drunkard or someone who is drunk or uses illegal drugs most of the time;

●

Are married to more than one person at the same time;

2525

●

Fail to support your family or to pay child or spousal support as ordered;

●

Are arrested for domestic violence (domestic violence is when someone

assaults or harasses a family member, which includes violating a protection

order);

●

Lie or present fake documents to get public benefits or defraud any

government agency;

●

Fail to file tax returns when required;

●

Willfully fail to register for the Selective Service if you are a male between

the ages of 18 and 26; and

●

Help someone else who is not a U.S. citizen or national to enter the United

States illegally even if that person is a close relative and you are not paid.

If you have committed or have been convicted of a crime, you should consult

with a reputable immigration lawyer or a community-based organization

that provides legal service to immigrants before you apply for another

immigration benefit. See page 21 for information on how to find legal

assistance.

2727

Getting Settled in the United States

This section provides information that can help you adjust to life in the United States. You will learn

how to get a Social Security number, find a place to live, look for a job, find child care, and travel in the

United States.

Get a Social Security Number

As a permanent resident, you are eligible for a Social Security number,

which is a number assigned to you by the U.S. government. It helps the

government keep track of your earnings and the benefits you can receive. Your

Social Security number is also used by financial

institutions and other agencies, such as schools,

to identify you. You may be asked for your Social

Security number when you rent an apartment or

buy a home.

Social Security is a U.S. government program that

provides benefits for certain retired workers and

their families, certain disabled workers and their

families, and certain family members of deceased

workers. The government department in charge

of Social Security is called the Social Security

Administration (SSA).

Find the Social Security office closest to you by:

●

Looking on the SSA website, www.socialsecurity.gov. For Spanish, visit

www.segurosocial.gov/espanol. The website also has limited information

available in several other languages.

●

Calling 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (for hearing impaired)

between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Free interpreter services are available.

If You Do Not Speak English

The Social Security office can provide an interpreter free of charge to help you apply

for a Social Security number. When you call the Social Security office, tell the person

who answers the phone that you do not speak English. They will find an interpreter to

help. You can also get assistance from an interpreter when you visit the Social Security

office.

The Social Security Administration website contains helpful information for people new

to the United States. The “Other Languages” section of the website has information about Social Security in several

languages. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov; for Spanish, see www.segurosocial.gov/espanol.

You do not need to fill out an application or go to a Social Security office to

get a Social Security number if all of the following conditions apply to you:

●

You asked for a Social Security number or card when you applied for an

immigrant visa;

●

You applied for an immigrant visa in October 2002 or later; and

●

You were 18 years old or older when you came to the United States.

In this situation, the Departments of State and Homeland Security sent the

required information to assign you a Social Security number to the Social

Security Administration (SSA). The SSA will assign you a Social Security

number and mail your Social Security card to the same U.S. mailing address

where USCIS sends your Permanent Resident Card. You should get your Social

Security card within three weeks after you arrive in the United States. If you

do not receive your card within three weeks after arriving in the United

States, contact the SSA immediately. Also, contact the SSA if you change your

mailing address after you arrive but before you receive your Social Security

card.

You must go to a Social Security office to get a Social Security number if any

of the following conditions apply to you:

●

You did not ask for a Social Security number or card when you applied for

an immigrant visa;

●

You applied for your immigrant visa before October 2002; or

●

You were under age 18 when you came to the United States.

A Social Security representative will help you apply for a Social Security

number. Bring the following documents with you when you go to the Social

Security office to apply:

●

A birth certificate or other document, such as your passport, showing

when and where you were born.

●

A document showing your immigration status, including your permission

to work in the United States. This can be your Permanent Resident Card or

passport with an immigration stamp or visa label.

The SSA will send your Social Security number to you in the mail. You

should receive your Social Security card about two weeks after the SSA has

all documents needed for your application. If SSA needs to verify any of your

documents, it may take longer to receive your Social Security number.

Find a Place to Live

You can choose where you live in the United States. Many people stay with

friends or family members when they first arrive. Others move into their own

housing.

In the United States, most people spend about 25 percent of their income on

housing. Here are some housing options you may consider.

Renting a Home

Apartments and houses can be rented. You can find these in several ways:

●

Look for “Apartment Available” or “For Rent” signs on buildings.

●

Ask friends, relatives, and co-workers if they know of places to

rent.

●

Look for “For Rent” signs in public spaces, such as bulletin

boards in your library, grocery stores, and community centers.

●

Research places available for rent on the Internet. If you do not

have a computer at home, you can use one at your local public

library.

●

Look in the phone book’s yellow pages under “Property

Management.” These are companies that rent apartments and

houses. They may charge you a fee to help you find a home.

●

Look in the “Classifieds” section of the newspaper. Find

the pages listing “Apartments for Rent” and “Homes for

Rent.” These will have information about renting homes and

apartments.

●

Call a local real estate agent.

Call 311 for Information on City or Town Services

In many cities and towns, you can call 311 to find non-emergency government

services. For example, you can call 311 to ask a question about garbage collection or

request that your sidewalk be repaired. Some places do not offer 311 services. Call

your city or town government to see if 311 is available in your area.

What to Expect When You Rent a Home

This section outlines the different steps you may encounter before moving

into your new home. For more information, visit www.hud.gov or, for

Spanish, see www.espanol.hud.gov.

Applying to Rent: People who rent housing are

called tenants. As a tenant, you either rent housing

directly from the landlord (the owner of the

property) or through the property manager (a

person responsible for the property). A landlord

or property manager may ask you to fill out a

rental application, which verifies whether you have

money to pay rent.

The application may ask for your Social Security

number and proof that you are working. You can

use your Permanent Resident Card if you do not yet

have a Social Security number, or you can show a

pay stub from your job to prove you are working.

You may also be asked to pay a small application

fee.

If you are not yet working, you may need someone to sign the rental

agreement with you. This person is called a co-signer. If you cannot pay the

rent, the co-signer is responsible for paying it.

Signing a Lease: You sign a rental agreement, or lease, if the landlord agrees

to rent to you. A lease is a legal document. When you sign a lease, you agree

to pay your rent on time and rent for a specific length of time. Most leases are

for one year. You can also find housing for shorter periods of time, such as

one month. You may have to pay more money for a short lease.

When you sign a lease, you agree to keep the home clean and in good

condition. You may be charged extra if you damage the place you are renting.

The lease may also list the number of people who may live in the home.

Paying a Security Deposit: Renters usually pay a security deposit before

moving into the home. This deposit is usually equal to one month’s rent.

If the home is clean and in good condition when you move out, then you

will get your deposit back. If not, the landlord may keep some or all of your

deposit to pay for cleaning or repairs.

Inspect the house or apartment before you move in. Tell the landlord about

any problems you find. Before you move out, ask your landlord what you

need to fix or clean so you may receive all of your security deposit back.

Paying Other Rental Costs: For some houses or apartments, the rent payment

includes the cost of utilities, such as gas, electricity, heat, water, and trash

removal. For other rentals, you must pay separately for these expenses. When

you are looking for housing, ask the landlord if any utilities are included.

If utilities are included, make sure this information is in your lease before

you sign it. If utilities are not included, find out how much they will cost

before signing the agreement. The cost of some utilities will be more in the

summer (for air conditioning) or in the winter (for heat). Renters insurance,

sometimes referred to as tenants insurance, is available. This insurance protects

personal belongings, offers liability protection, and may cover additional

living expenses if the home you are renting is destroyed or damaged.

Ending a Lease: Ending a rental agreement is called “terminating your lease.”

If you need to terminate your lease earlier than expected, you may have to

pay monthly rent until the end of the lease even if you are not living there.

You also may lose your security deposit if you leave before the end of the

lease. Before you move out, give your landlord a written notice telling him or

her that you are ready to move out. Most landlords require at least 30 days’

advance notice before you want to leave. Before you sign the lease, make sure

you understand its terms and ask how much notice you are required to give

the landlord before moving out.

Addressing Home Repairs with Your Landlord

Landlords must keep the home or apartment you rent in safe and good condition. If you are in need of a home repair:

●

First, talk to your landlord. Tell him or her about the problem and that you need it fixed. If your landlord does not

respond, then write a letter to your landlord to tell him or her about the problem. Keep a copy of the letter for

yourself.

●

If your landlord still does not respond to your request, then call your local Housing Office. Most city or local

governments have people who inspect homes for problems. Ask the Housing Office to send an inspector to visit

your home. Show the inspector the problem.

●

Lastly, if your landlord does not fix the problem(s), then you may be able to file a legal charge against your

landlord.

Know Your Rights: Discrimination in Housing Is Not Allowed

Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because of who you are. It is against the law for landlords to reject you

because of:

●

Your race or color;

●

Your national origin;

●

Your religion;

●

Your sex;

●

A disability; or

●

Your family status.

If you feel you have been refused housing for any of these reasons, contact the U.S. Department of Housing and

Urban Development (HUD) by phone at 1-800-669-9777 or 1-800-927-9275 (for hearing impaired). You can also

file a complaint in the “Fair Housing” section of www.hud.gov. Information is available in several languages.

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If you move, you should tell the U.S. Postal Service so it can forward your mail to

your new address. To change your address online, visit www.usps.com/umove

or visit your local post office. Also, do not forget to file Form AR-11, Change of

Address, with USCIS. See page 19 for instructions.

Buying a Home

For many people, owning a home is part of the American dream. Owning a

home has many benefits but also many responsibilities.

Real estate agents can help you find a home to buy. Ask friends or co-workers if

they can recommend a real estate agent, or call a local real estate agency for the

name of an agent. Ask for an agent who is familiar with the area where you want

to buy a home. There are many ways to search for real estate, such as researching

on the Internet, looking at real estate in the newspaper “Classifieds” section, or

looking for “For Sale” signs in the neighborhoods you like.

Most people need to get a loan to pay for a home. This is called a mortgage.

You can get a mortgage from a local bank or from a mortgage company. A

mortgage means you are borrowing money at a specific interest rate

for a specific period of time.

The interest you pay on your mortgage can be deducted

from your federal income tax.

You need to buy homeowner’s insurance to help

pay for any possible future damage to your home.

Insurance usually covers damage due to bad

weather, fire, or robbery. You will also need to pay

property taxes on the value of your home.

A real estate agent or real estate lawyer can help you

find a mortgage and insurance. He or she can help

you fill out the forms to buy your home. A real estate

agent should not charge you a fee to buy a home, but

you may have to pay a fee to a real estate lawyer to help

you fill out the forms. You will also have to pay fees to get

your mortgage and to file legal forms with the state. These fees are

called closing costs. Your real estate agent or mortgage lender must tell you

how much these fees will be before you sign the final purchase forms for

your home. For help on looking for a real estate agent, finding a loan, and

choosing insurance, visit the “Buying a Home” section of

www.hud.gov.

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Protect yourself from loan fraud and lenders who charge very high interest rates

on mortgages. Some lenders may try to take advantage of you, such as bycharging

you more money because you are new to this country. There are laws to protect

you from fraud, unnecessary expenses, and discrimination in buying a home. For

more information about loan fraud and advice on preventing it, visit the “Buying a

Home” section of www.hud.gov.

More Information about Buying or Renting a Home

Visit the “Buying a Home” section of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) website at

www.hud.gov. You can also speak to a housing counselor by calling HUD at 1-800-569-4287. Information is

available in English and Spanish.

For other helpful resources, visit the Federal Citizen Information Center at http://publications.usa.gov.

Look for a Job

There are many ways to look for a job in the United States. To increase your

chances of finding a job, you can:

●

Ask friends, neighbors, family members, or other people in your

community about job openings or good places to work.

●

Search for jobs on the Internet. If you use a computer at your library, ask

the library staff to help you get started.

●

Look for “Help Wanted” signs in the windows of local businesses.

●

Go to the employment or human resources offices of businesses in your

area to ask about job openings.

●

Visit community agencies that help immigrants find jobs and that

administer job-training programs.

●

Check bulletin boards at local libraries, grocery stores, and community

centers for hiring notices.

●

Check with the department of employment services for your state or

locality.

●

Look in the newspaper’s “Classifieds” section under “Employment.”

Applying for a Job

Most employers will ask you to fill out a job application. This is a form with

questions about your address, education, and past work experience. It may

also ask for information about people you have worked with in the past who

can recommend you. These people are called references, and the employer

may want to call them to ask questions about you.

You may need to create a résumé with a list of your work experience. A

résumé tells your employer about your past jobs, your education and training,

and your job skills. When you apply for a job, take your résumé with you.

A good résumé:

●

Has your name, address, phone number, and

email address;

●

Lists your past jobs and includes dates worked;

●

Shows your level of education;

●

Shows any special skills you have; and

●

Is easy to read and has no mistakes.

Check with local community service agencies to

see if they can help you write a résumé. Private

businesses can help with this too, but they may

charge a fee. For more information about applying for a job, visit

www.careeronestop.org.

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While you are looking for a job, you may come across employment scams.

Although many job placement firms are legitimate and helpful, others may

misrepresent their services, promote outdated or fake job offerings, or charge high

up-front fees for services that may not lead to a job. For more information, visit

www.ftc.gov/jobscams.

What Are Benefits?

In addition to your pay, some employers provide extra employment benefits. Benefits may include:

●

Medical care

●

Dental care

●

Eye care

●

Life insurance

●

A retirement plan

Employers may pay some or all of the costs of these benefits. If you are offered a job, ask which benefits the employer

provides to employees.

The Job Interview

Employers may want to meet with you to talk about the job. They will ask

about your past work and your skills. To help prepare for the interview, you

can practice answering questions about your past work and your skills with

a friend or family member. You can also ask questions to the employer at the

end of the interview. This is a good chance to learn more about the job.

You may want to ask:

●

How would you describe a typical day in this position?

●

How would I be trained or introduced to the job?

●

Where does the job fit into the organization?

●

How would you describe the work environment?

●

What do you consider the positive aspects and challenging aspects of this

position?

During the interview, an employer can ask you many questions, but

employers are not allowed to ask certain questions. No one should ask you

questions about your race, color, sex, family status, religion, national origin,

age, or any disability you may have. For more information about the job

interview process, visit www.dol.gov.

Know Your Rights: Federal Laws Protect Employees

The United States has several federal laws that forbid employers from discriminating against people looking for a job

and that protect against retaliation and other forms of discrimination in the workplace.

●

The Civil Rights Act forbids discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, country of origin, sex, or pregnancy.

●

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act forbids discrimination on the basis of age.

●

The Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act forbids discrimination on the basis of having a

disability.

●

The Equal Pay Act forbids discrimination on the basis of sex.

●

The Genetic Nondiscrimination Act forbids discrimination on the basis of genetic information.

For more information about these protections, visit the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website at

www.eeoc.gov or call 1-800-669-4000 and 1-800-669-6820 (for hearing impaired).

Other laws help keep workplaces safe, provide leave in cases of family or medical emergencies, and provide

temporary funds for unemployed workers. Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website at www.dol.gov for more

information about workers’ rights.

Additionally, federal laws protect employees from discrimination on the basis of national origin or citizenship

status. For more information about these protections, call the Department of Justice’s Office of Special Counsel for

Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices at 1-800-255-7688 or 1-800-237-2515 (for hearing impaired). If

you do not speak English, interpreters are available to help you. For more information, visit www.justice.gov/crt/osc.

What to Expect When You Are Hired

When you go to your new job for the first time, you will be asked to fill out

some forms. These include:

●

Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification: By law, employers must

verify that all newly hired workers are eligible to work in the United States.

On your first day of work, you will need to fill out Section 1 of Form I-9.

You should not be asked to fill out Section 1 until you have accepted a job.

Within three business days, you must give your employer documentation

that shows your identity and authorization to work. You can choose

which document(s) to show as proof of your right to work in the United

States, as long as the document is listed on Form I-9. Your employer will

provide you with the list of acceptable documents. Examples of acceptable

documents are your Permanent Resident Card or an unrestricted Social

Security card in combination with a state-issued driver’s license. For more

information, visit I-9 Central at www.uscis.gov/I-9Central.

●

Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate: Your

employer should take federal taxes from your paycheck to send to the

government. This is called withholding tax. Form W-4 tells your employer

to withhold taxes and helps you determine the correct amount to withhold

so that your tax bill is not due all at once at the end of the year.

●

Other Forms: You may need to fill out a tax withholding form for the state

you live in and other forms so that you can get benefits.

You may be paid each week, every two weeks, or once a month. Your

paycheck will show the amount taken out for federal and state taxes, Social

Security taxes, and any employment benefits you pay. Some employers will

send your pay directly to your bank account; this method is called direct

deposit.

Confirming Your Eligibility to Work

E-Verify is an Internet-based system that employers use to compare

information from an employee’s Form I-9, Employment Eligibility

Verification, to USCIS and Social Security Administration (SSA) records

to confirm that an employee is authorized to work in the United States.

Some employers must participate in E-Verify; other employers participate

voluntarily. To learn more about E-Verify, visit www.uscis.gov/e-verify.

To Confirm Your Eligibility on Your Own

Self Check is a free, Internet-based application that you can use to check your

employment eligibility if you are in the United States and over the age of

16. After you enter the required information, Self Check will compare that

information with various government databases to determine your work

eligibility in the United States. For more information, visit www.uscis.gov/

selfcheck or, for Spanish, www.uscis.gov/selfcheck/Espanol.

Speaking English at Work

If you do not speak English, try to learn it as soon as possible. You can find

free or low-cost English language classes in your community, often through

the local public schools or community college. Knowing English will help

you in your job, your community, and your daily life. See page 68 for more

information about learning English.

If your employer says you must speak English at work, then

he or she must show that speaking English is required for

you to do your job correctly. Your employer must also tell

you that English is required before you are hired. If your

employer cannot show that speaking English is required for

your job, then he or she may be breaking a federal law. If

you need assistance or more information, you can contact

the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

(EEOC). Call 1-800-669-4000 or 1-800-669-6820 (for

hearing impaired) or visit www.eeoc.gov.

Drug Tests and Background Checks

For some jobs, you may be required to take a test to make sure that you are

not using illegal drugs. Some jobs require a background check, which is an

investigation into your past activities and present circumstances.

Federal Protection for Immigrant Workers

Many immigrants (including permanent residents) and all U.S. citizens are protected against workplace discrimination.

Federal law says that employers cannot discriminate against you because of your immigration status. Employers

cannot:

●

Refuse to hire or fire you because of your immigration status or because you are not a U.S. citizen.

●

Require you to show a Permanent Resident Card or reject your employment authorization documentation.

●

Hire undocumented workers.

●

Discriminate against you because of your national origin or country of origin.

●

Retaliate against any employee who complains of the above treatment.

For more information about your rights or to file a complaint, call the Department of Justice’s Office of Special

Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices at 1-800-255-7688 or 1-800-237-2515 (for hearing

impaired). If you do not speak English, interpreters are available to help you. For more information, visit

www.justice.gov/crt/osc.

Child Care

Do not leave young children at home alone. If you work and your children

are too young to go to school, you need to find someone to watch them

while you are at work. Sometimes school-age children need someone to

watch them after school. If you or other family members are not able to

watch your children after school, you need to find someone to take care

of them. Otherwise, there may be serious legal consequences. For more

information on laws and guidelines in your state, contact your local child

protective services agency.

Finding Child Care

Choosing someone to care for your children is

an important decision. As you make this decision,

think about the quality and cost of care. Try to find

a caregiver who is close to your home or job.

There are many resources you can use to find

a good child care provider. Ask other parents,

friends, and co-workers who they have caring for

their children. Some states have a child care referral

agency that can give you a list of state-licensed

child care programs. Licensed child care programs

meet specific requirements set by the state for

the protection of your children. You also can call

your local school district office to find places where other children in your

neighborhood receive care.

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If you need help finding good child care in your area, visit www.usa.gov/Topics/

Parents-Care.shtml.

Types of Child Care

You have a number of choices when choosing a child care provider, such as:

●

A caregiver comes into your home to watch your children. This type of service can be expensive because your child

gets more individual attention. The quality of care depends on the person you hire.

●

Your child is cared for in somebody else’s home with a small group of other children. This option can be less

expensive than other types of child care. The quality of care depends on the people who watch your child and the

number of children they are caring for in their home.

●

Child care centers located in schools, churches, faith-based organizations, and other places. These programs

usually have several caregivers who watch larger groups of children. Child care centers must meet state standards,

and the staff is usually required to have special training and experience.

●

Head Start Programs, called “Early Head Start” and “Head Start,” are programs funded by the federal government

for low-income families. These programs provide care and educational services to young children to get them ready

for school. To learn more about these programs, call the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at 1-866-

763-6481 or visit http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc.

Some child care providers will take care of children for a full day or only part of the day, depending on the parents’

needs. Cost is also a factor in choosing a caregiver. Check to see if you are eligible for federal or state child care

assistance. Many states offer financial assistance to low-income parents who are working or participating in job-

training or education programs. For more information about federal or state child care assistance, visit the “Education

and Child Care” section of www.welcometousa.gov.

How Can You Tell If a Child Care Provider Is Good?

Think about these basic questions when you visit a child care program:

●

Are the children happy when around the staff?

●

Are toys that are appropriate for the children’s ages available?

●

Are children doing an appropriate activity?

●

Does the provider talk to your child while you are there?

●

Is the space clean and organized?

●

What is the curriculum or routine for the children?

Ask for references so that you can talk to other parents about the program.

Transportation

There are many ways to travel in the United States. Many

cities have different forms of public transportation, such

as buses, trains, or streetcars. Anyone can ride public

transportation for a small fee. In some places, you can

buy a card to use for several trips on trains or buses.

You can also pay for each trip separately. Taxicabs, or

taxis, are cars with drivers who take you where you

want to go for a fee. Taxis are more expensive than

public transportation.

Getting a Driver’s License

It is against the law to drive without a driver’s license.

You must apply for and get a driver’s license if you want

to drive. You get your driver’s license in the state where

you live.

Check with the state office that issues driver’s licenses to find out how

to get one. These offices have different names in each state. Some common

names are Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Transportation,

Motor Vehicle Administration, or Department of Public Safety. You can find

these offices in the phone book or for more information, visit www.usa.gov/

Topics/Motor_Vehicles.shtml.

Some permanent residents already have a driver’s license from another

country. You may be able to trade it for a driver’s license in your state. Check

with your state office to see if you can.

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Make sure the child care provider or program you are using is licensed or

accredited. Licensed programs must meet minimum safety and care standards set

by the state. Accredited programs meet higher standards than those required for a

state license.

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A driver’s license is used for identification in the United States. It is a good idea

to get one even if you do not own or regularly drive a car.

Should I Buy a Car?

Owning a car can be a convenient way to travel. In the United States, you must also

pay for car insurance and register your vehicle and license plates. Heavy traffic can

make driving difficult in some cities. Think of all the costs and benefits before you

decide to buy a car. For more information on buying a car, visit the “Travel and

Recreation” section of www.usa.gov.

10 Tips for Driving Safely in the United States

1. Drive on the right-hand side of the road.

2. Always have your driver’s license, registration, and insurance card with you.

3. Always wear your seat belt.

4. Use proper seat belts and car safety seats for children.

5. Use your car’s signals to show if you are turning left or right.

6. Obey all traffic laws and signals.

7. Pull over to the side of the road if an emergency vehicle—such as police car, fire truck, or ambulance—needs to

pass you.

8. Do not pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing.

9. Do not drive if you have been drinking or taking drugs.

10. Slow down and be very careful when driving in fog, ice, rain, or snow.

If you do not know how to drive, you can take driving lessons. Many public

school districts have classes in driver education. You can also look under

“Driving Instruction” in the yellow pages of the phone book.

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Hitchhiking is not common in the United States. In many places, it is illegal. For

safety reasons, do not hitchhike and do not give rides to hitchhikers.

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Taking Care of Your Money

Taking care of your money can have a big impact on your future in the United States. This section

discusses personal finances, paying taxes, and ways in which you can protect yourself and your money.

Personal Finance

Getting an Account

In the United States, two types of financial institutions that offer personal

financing accounts are banks and credit unions.

A bank account is a safe place to keep your money. Banks have different kinds

of accounts. Checking accounts and savings accounts are two common ones.

You can open an account for yourself or a joint account with your spouse or

another person. Banks may charge you fees for some of their services.

A credit union is another place to safeguard your money. Your employer

may have a credit union that you can join, or you may be able to join one,

depending on where you live. Credit unions provide most of the same

services as banks but may offer extra services. Compare the services, fees,

coverage, hours, and locations of financial institutions before you open an

account so you can choose one that best meets your needs.

When you open an account, you will be asked to prove your identity. You can

use your Permanent Resident Card or driver’s license. You will also need to

give the financial institution some money—called a deposit—to put into your

new account. When you take money out of your account, this transaction is

called a withdrawal. You can withdraw money by writing a check, going to

an automated teller machine (ATM), or filling out a withdrawal form at your

financial institution.

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There are stores that offer check-cashing services and overseas money-wiring

services, which cost extra. Check to see if your bank or credit union offers these

services at a lower cost.

Keeping Your Money Safe

It is not safe to carry around large amounts of cash or to leave cash in your home, it could be stolen or lost. If you put

money in a bank or credit union that is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or is insured

by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), then your money is protected up to $250,000. When choosing

a financial institution, make sure it is either a member of the FDIC or that it is insured by the NCUA. For more

information, visit www.fdic.gov or www.ncua.gov.

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Using Your Account

You can get money from your account by using a personal check, ATM, or

debit card. Be sure that only you and your joint account holder (if you have

one) have access to your account.

Personal Checks: You can get a supply of personal checks when you open

your checking account. These checks are forms that you fill out to pay for

something. Checks tell your financial institution to pay the person or business

you have written on the check. Keep these checks in a safe place and ask

your financial institution how to order new checks when you have used your

supply.

ATM Cards: You can ask your financial institution for an ATM card. An ATM

card is a small plastic card linked to your account. Use this card to get cash or

deposit money in your account at an ATM. Usually you do not pay a fee for

using your own financial institution’s ATM. You will most likely be charged a

fee if you use an ATM owned and operated by another financial institution.

The financial institution staff will show you how to use an ATM card and give

you a special number, called a PIN (personal identification number), to use

at the ATM. Be careful when using ATMs. Never give anyone your PIN or ATM

card because he or she could use it to take money out of your account.

Debit Cards: Your financial institution may give you a debit card to use for

your checking account. Sometimes your ATM card can also be used as a debit

card. Never give anyone your PIN or debit card because he or she could use

it to take money out of your account. You can use your debit card to pay for

something at a store and the money will automatically be taken out of your

checking account to pay the store.

Cashier’s and Certified Checks: These are checks that a financial institution

creates upon your request. You give the financial institution money and then

they create a check for that amount of money to the person or business you

want to pay. Financial institutions may charge a fee for these checks. Ask your

financial institution about other options that may be available to you.

Write down the numbers for all accounts and debit, ATM, and credit

cards. Also write down the phone numbers of these companies. Keep this

information in a safe and secure place. If your wallet is lost or stolen, call the

companies and cancel all of your cards. This will keep someone else from

using your cards illegally.

To learn more about personal finance, visit www.mymoney.gov.

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Check your credit card bill each month to make sure all the charges are correct. If

you see a charge that you did not make, call the credit card company immediately.

You usually do not have to pay for charges you did not make if you report it to the

credit card company immediately.

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Manage your account carefully so that you do not incur any overdraft fees. An

overdraft occurs when you do not have enough money in your account to cover a

payment or withdrawal. Check with your financial institution to find out about your

options and the fees.

Credit Cards

Credit cards allow you to make purchases and pay for them later. Banks, credit unions, stores, and gas stations

are some businesses that can give you a credit card. You get a bill in the mail each month for purchases you have

made with your credit card. If you pay the entire amount on the bill when you receive it, then you do not have to pay

interest. If you do not pay the entire amount or if you send your payment late, then you will be charged interest and

possibly an additional fee. Some credit cards have very high interest rates, so review the different credit card options

to determine which one is best for you. Credit cards may be called charge cards, but they are different. With a charge

card you are required to pay the balance in full each month, but credit cards allow you to carry a balance if you do

not pay in full.

Be careful about giving your credit card number to others, especially over the phone or on the Internet. Be sure you

know and trust the person or business that asks for your number.

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Paying Taxes

Taxes are money paid by people to federal, state, and local governments. Taxes

pay for services provided by the government. There are different types of

taxes, such as income tax, sales tax, and property tax.

Income Tax: Income tax is paid to federal, most state, and some local

governments. Taxable income is money that you get from wages, self-

employment, tips, and the sale of property. Most people pay income taxes

by having money withheld from their paychecks. The amount of income

tax you must pay depends on how much money you earn. Income

tax rates are lower for people who make less money. Anyone who

earns income, resides in the United States, and meets certain

requirements needs to file a tax return and pay all taxes owed.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is the federal agency that

collects income tax. Taxpayers file Form 1040, U.S. Individual

Income Tax Return, with the IRS each year. Your tax return tells

the government how much you earned and how much in taxes

was taken out of your paycheck. If you had too much taken out

of your paycheck in taxes, you will receive a refund. If you did

not have enough taken out of your paycheck in taxes, you will be

required to pay the IRS.

Your Credit Rating

In the United States, the way you manage your credit is very important. There are organizations that determine your

credit score or credit rating. Your credit score or rating depends on how you pay bills, how many loans you take out,

how many credit cards you have, and other factors. Your credit rating is very important when you want to buy a home

or car, or take out a loan. Here are things you can do to maintain a good credit rating:

●

Pay all your bills on time.

●

Keep your credit card balances low and pay at least the minimum amount due each month.

Under federal law, you can get one free credit report once a year. If you would like to get a copy of your credit rating

report, call 1-877-322-8228 or visit www.annualcreditreport.com.

Social Security and Medicare Taxes: These federal taxes are withheld from

your paycheck. Social Security provides benefits for certain retired workers

and their families, certain disabled workers and their families, and certain

family members of deceased workers. Medicare taxes pay for medical

services for most people over age 65. In most cases, you must work a total

of 10 years (or 40 quarters) over the course of your life to receive Social

Security retirement benefits and Medicare benefits.

You may need fewer than 10 years of work to

receive disability benefits or for your family to get

survivors’ benefits based on your earnings.

Sales Taxes: Sales taxes are state and local taxes.

These taxes are added to the cost of buying certain

things. Sales taxes are based on the cost of the item.

Revenue collected from sales taxes helps pay for

state and local government services, such as roads,

police, and fire departments.

Property Taxes: Property taxes are state and local

taxes on your house and/or land. In most places, property taxes help support

local public schools and other services.

Your W-2 Form: Wage and Tax Statement

A W-2 is a federal form that lists your earnings and the taxes you paid for the last tax

year. A tax year is from January 1 to December 31. By law, your employer must send

you a W-2 form by January 31 each year. You will receive a W-2 form for each job you

have. You must send a copy of your W-2 form with your federal income tax return to

the IRS. If you live or work in a state that collects income tax, then you must send a

copy of your W-2 with your state income tax return.

Getting Help with Your Taxes

As a permanent resident, you are required to file a federal income tax return

every year. This return covers your earnings from January to December of the

past year. You must file your return by April 15. You can get free help with

your tax return at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

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Taxpayer Assistance Centers are located in communities across the United

States. To find a Taxpayer Assistance Center where you live, visit www.irs.gov/

localcontacts/index.html. To get help by phone, call the IRS at 1-800-829-

1040 or 1-800-829-4059 (for hearing impaired). For a list of current tax

credits, visit www.benefits.gov.

How Government Works for Us

Taxes pay for the services the federal government provides to the people of the United States. Examples of these

services are:

●

Keeping our country safe and secure;

●

Curing and preventing diseases through research;

●

Educating children and adults;

●

Building and maintaining our roads and highways;

●

Providing medical services for low-income residents and the elderly; and

●

Giving emergency help when natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, or earthquakes strike.

Protect Yourself and Your Money

Avoid Identity Theft

Identity theft means someone has stolen your personal information, such as

your Social Security or bank account numbers. They can use it to take money

from your accounts or open a credit card in your name. Identity theft is a

serious crime. Protect yourself by:

●

Making sure you know and trust the people or businesses you give your

personal information to, especially on the phone or the Internet.

●

Leaving your Social Security card at home in a safe place. Do not carry it

with you.

●

Carrying with you only the identification documents or credit cards you

need at the time. Leave the rest at home in a safe place.

●

Tearing up or shredding any paper or forms with your personal

information on them before throwing them in the trash.

●

Selecting unique passwords for each account. Do not use the same

password, as that could put your personal information at risk.

To protect yourself against identity theft, call the Federal Trade Commission’s

ID Theft Hotline at 1-877-438-4338 or visit www.consumer.ftc.gov/

features/feature-0014-identity-theft.

“Phishing” and Other Scams

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), “phishing” is when an

unknown source sends an email or pop-up message to you claiming to be

from a business or organization with which you are associated, such as a

bank, an online payment service, or even a government agency. The message

may include links to websites asking you to update your account or personal

information. The links in the email connect to a website that looks like a

legitimate organization’s site, but the website is not real. Scammers created

the website to steal your identity so that they can charge money or commit

crimes in your name.

Be aware of phone scams that target individuals, including immigrants. A

scammer may call you and ask for money or threaten you. They will likely

have some information about you and their phone number may look like an

official one. Government agencies will never call you to ask for money or

threaten you. If you receive a call like this, hang up and call the official

number for the business or government agency to check if it is a

scam.

To avoid getting scammed, here are important things to

remember:

●

If you get an email or pop-up message that asks for

personal or financial information, do not reply.

●

Do not give out your account number or password over

the phone unless you’re making the call to a company you

know is reputable. If you have questions about a company,

check with your local consumer protection office or Better

Business Bureau.

●

Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive

them to check for unauthorized charges.

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If you have a computer, use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, as well as

a firewall. Update them regularly.

●

Be careful when opening attachments or downloading files from emails.

If you do not know who sent the message to you, do not open the

attachment(s) or download the file(s).

●

If you suspect an email or website is fraudulent, report this information to

the real bank, company, or government agency.

If you believe you have been scammed, you can file a complaint through the

FTC’s website at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov. To learn more about how to

avoid online scams and deal with deceptive spam, visit www.onguardonline.

gov.

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Understanding Education and

Health Care

Education can help connect you and your family to your community. This section describes schools

in the United States for children, youths, and adults. This section also discusses the health care system

and provides resources so that you and your family can stay informed.

Education in the United States

To make sure all children are prepared to succeed, the United States provides

free public education from kindergarten through grade 12 for all students

in the United States. Some communities also offer the chance for children as

young as three years old to attend preschool. This section tells you how to

enroll your children in school, how schools in the United States work, and

how to help your children learn.

Most public schools in the United States are coeducational. Coeducational

means that girls and boys attend classes together, however, there are some

schools that only enroll a single gender. Most schools are part of a school

district that has several schools, including different schools for children of

different ages. The ages of students at each school may vary from community

to community.

Enroll Your Child in School

One of the first things you should do is to enroll your child in

school. Call or visit your local school district’s main office

or website to find out which school or schools your

child may attend. Currently, all states and the District

of Columbia have compulsory school attendance

laws. Compulsory school attendance means that all

children who are between certain ages must attend

school. In most states, these laws cover all children

ages 5 to 16. Check with your local school district

or state department of education to find out the

required ages for school attendance in your state.

You can send your child to a public or private

school. Public schools are free and do not offer

religious instruction. The state decides what your

child learns in public school, but local school districts,

principals, teachers, and parents decide how to teach your

child. Charter schools are a special type of public school that operate

independently from the local school district. Your local and state taxes, and

some of your federal taxes, pay for public schools.

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Private schools are another way you can educate your child. Private schools

are owned and run by groups that are independent of the government,

including religious and non-religious groups. Students generally must pay

a fee (called tuition) to attend private school. In some cases, private schools

may offer financial help for students who cannot pay the tuition. In other

cases, public funds may be available in the form of vouchers for students to

attend private school. Some private schools are coeducational, while some

are only for boys or only for girls. Some states have licensing or registration

requirements for private schools, and many private schools choose to be

accredited by an accrediting association. To learn more about private schools,

contact your state’s department of education.

Educating your child at home is another option. This is called homeschooling.

The requirements for homeschooling differ from state to state. Parents

interested in homeschooling should contact their state department of

education to get more information.

Most American children are in public school for around 13 years, from

kindergarten through grade 12. In most schools, your child will be placed

in a class (called a grade) based on two things: age and level of previous

education. In some cases, a school may give your child a test to determine his

or her grade level and class assignment.

How tHe typical U.S. ScHool iS organized

School Grades Ages

Kindergarten and Grades

Elementary or Primary School Children Ages 5 to 11

1 to 5 or 1 to 6

Grades 6 to 8,

Junior or Middle School Youths Ages 11 to 14

7 to 8, or 7 to 9

Grades 9 to 12 Young Adults Ages 14 to 18

Secondary or High School

or 10 to 12 (and up to age 21 in some cases)

Public and Private Community Colleges,

Postsecondary or Higher Education Two-Year or Four-Year Colleges or All Eligible Adults May Attend

Universities, Trade Schools

Here is a list of answers to questions that parents often ask about public

schools:

How long is the school year?

The school year usually begins in August or September and ends in May or

June. In some places, children attend school all year. Children are in school

Monday through Friday. Many schools offer programs before or after regular

school hours for children whose parents work. You may be charged a fee for

these before- or after-school programs, but some special tutoring services

may be available for free in your school district.

Where do I enroll my child?

Call or visit your local school district’s main office or website to find out

which school or schools your child may attend.

What documents do I need to enroll my child?

You need your child’s medical records and proof that

your child has certain immunizations (also called shots)

to protect him or her from disease. You also may need

proof of identification, such as a birth certificate, and

proof that you live in the same community as the

school. If you have lost these documents, ask school

staff how to get new documents. To avoid delays, do this

before you try to enroll your child.

What if my child does not speak English?

If your child does not speak English, the school district will

evaluate your child’s language skills. The school will then provide

your child with the services he or she needs to learn English and to

participate in the academic program for his or her grade level. The school

district is responsible for providing your child with the right services to

meet your child’s language needs, and for informing you in a language you

can understand about the services your child will receive. You can contact

your child’s school to ask about this process. In addition to language services

during the regular school day, some schools offer after-school programs and

tutoring to help students improve English outside of school. Your child’s

school will tell you what kind of extra help they offer to students learning

English.

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What if my child has a disability?

All students in the United States have the right to get a free public education,

whether or not they have a disability. If your child has a disability, he or

she may receive free special education and related services. Your child

will be placed in a regular school classroom if appropriate for his or her

needs. Sometimes your child may need special education or related services

outside the regular classroom. You can participate when school staff make

individualized decisions about how to best teach your child. The school is

responsible for communicating with you about these decisions in a language

that you can understand. For more information on how to access services and

other resources, visit http://idea.ed.gov.

My child was not in school before coming to the United States. How

long can he or she attend public school for free?

In most states, students can attend public school for free until they graduate

high school or reach the maximum age, which is usually age 21. If a student

is under age 22, they may be able to enroll in a high school and pursue a

regular high school diploma. If a student has not graduated from high school

by age 22, he or she can enroll in Adult Secondary Education (ASE) classes.

ASE classes help prepare students to obtain the recognized equivalent of a

high school diploma (such as a General Educational Development [GED]

certificate) instead of a regular high school diploma. Call your local school

district office or state department of education, or research online, to find out

where GED or other high school equivalency classes are offered.

How will my child get to school?

Children can sometimes walk to school in the

United States. If the school is too far away or if it

is not safe to walk, they may ride a school bus or

take public transportation, such as a subway or

train. Many public schools have free buses that pick

up and drop off students at a school bus stop near

your home. Other public schools provide eligible

students with passes so that they can ride local

public transportation for free or at a reduced cost.

To find out if your child can ride a bus to school or

receive a public transportation pass, contact your

local school district office. If you have a car, you

can also set up a car pool with other parents in

your area to share driving your children to school.

Federal School Meals Program

To improve learning, the U.S. government provides healthy low-cost or free meals to more than 26 million children

each school day. Participation in the School Breakfast Program and National School Lunch Program is based on

family income and size. The Special Milk Program provides milk to children who do not participate in other federal

school meals programs. For more information about these U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, visit www.fns.

usda.gov/cnd.

What will my child eat at school?

Children can take lunch to school or buy it at the

school cafeteria. The U.S. government also provides

nutritious free or low-cost breakfast and lunch for

eligible children who cannot afford to buy food

at school. Call or visit your child’s school to find

out if it participates in the federal school meals

program. Talk with school staff to find out if your

children are eligible to participate.

Who pays for books and school activities?

Public schools usually provide free books. Students

must usually buy their own school supplies, such as paper and pencils. If you

cannot pay for these supplies, contact your child’s school. Some schools may

charge a small fee for supplies or special events, such as school trips. Many

schools offer after-school sports and music programs. You may need to pay a

fee for your child to participate in some of these programs.

What will my child learn?

Each state sets academic standards for schools. These standards outline what

all students should know and at what level they are expected to perform. Local

school districts decide how this information should be taught. Most schools

teach English, math, social studies, science, and physical education. Art, music,

and foreign languages are sometimes offered, too.

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How is my child’s work assessed?

Teachers assign scores (also called grades) based on the work children do

during the school year. Grades are usually based on homework, classwork,

tests, attendance, and class behavior. Your child will receive a report card

several times a year. Some schools will send your child’s report card directly to

you. A report card tells you how your child is doing in each subject. Schools

have different ways of grading students. Some schools use letter grades, with

A or A+ for excellent work and D or F for poor or failing work. Others use

number grades or words like “excellent,” “good,” or “needs improvement”

to summarize your child’s performance. In many grades, students also take

standardized tests, which schools administer to assess students. Ask school

staff how students in your child’s school are graded and assessed.

How can I talk to my child’s teacher?

Most schools have regular parent conferences for you to meet with

your child’s teacher. You can also schedule meetings to talk with

teachers or school administrators about how your child is doing

in school. If you do not speak or understand English, the school

district will provide a qualified interpreter for such meetings. The

school district is also required to provide you with information on

other school matters in a language you understand.

What if my child misses school?

Being in school is very important. Parents must send a written

letter to the teacher or call the school to explain why their child

was not in school. If your child will be out of school, tell the

teacher in advance. Students must usually make up any work they

missed. Ask your child’s school what type of information you need to provide

if your child misses school.

What You Can Do

Most public and private schools have a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) that

you may join. These groups help parents learn about what is going on in their child’s school and how to get involved

in school events. At most schools, anyone can join, even grandparents. The PTA/PTOs also support schools by

sponsoring special activities and by providing volunteers to help in the classroom.

You can get involved even if you do not speak or understand English. Many schools have information specifically

for parents with limited English skills. Let the school know that you will need interpreter services so that you can

participate. Call or visit your child’s school office to find out when the PTA/PTO meets and how you can join. You can

also talk to your child’s teacher and ask if there are ways that you can volunteer or get involved.

What if my child gets into trouble?

Many schools have a list of rules or a discipline policy that students must

obey, often called a code of conduct. Ask your child’s school about its

discipline policy or code of conduct. The school may discipline students who

break school rules by requiring them to stay after the school day is over or by

banning them from participating in sports or other school activities. Physical

punishment is not permitted in U.S. schools in most states.

Children may be suspended or expelled from school if they behave very

badly and break school rules often. If your child is expelled, he or she will no

longer be able to go to the same school. You will need to meet with school

staff to find out how to get your child back into a school.

Is my child safe in school?

Most American public schools are safe places to learn. If you are worried

about your child’s safety, talk to a teacher, school counselor, principal, or other

administrator.

How to Stop Bullying

Bullying is unwanted, aggressive verbal or physical behavior among school-

aged children. Bullying can occur during or after school hours. While most

reported bullying happens in the school building, bullying also happens in

places like the playground, bus, or on the Internet. To learn more about how

to prevent bullying or respond to it, visit www.stopbullying.gov.

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Higher Education: Colleges and

Universities

After high school, young adults and other adults can continue their education

in a two-year community or technical college, a four-year college, or a

university. These are called postsecondary institutions or institutions of

higher education. Typically, the first four years of

postsecondary education is called undergraduate

education, and schooling beyond the bachelor’s

degree is called graduate studies. There are both

public and private institutions of higher education.

Generally, public colleges and universities may

cost less than private ones, especially for residents

of the state where the college or university is

located. Adults can also choose to attend schools

to learn how to do specific jobs, such as repairing

computers or being a health care assistant.

Students in higher education choose a specific

subject to study in depth (this subject is called their major). Choosing a major

helps prepare them for employment or further education in that field.

Degree Type

HigHer edUcation

Type of School Years of Schooling

Certificate Community College/Trade School Six Months to Two Years

Associate’s Community College Two Years

Bachelor’s Four-Year College or University Four Years

Master’s University Two Years

Doctorate University Two to Eight Years

Professional Specialized School Two to Five Years

A college or university education can be expensive, but there are programs to

help you pay for the cost of education. Most students take out a loan or apply

for scholarships or financial aid to help pay for their schooling. Some schools

provide financial support called scholarships. You can visit your school’s

financial aid office to learn more about scholarships. Certain scholarships

and grants are limited to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, permanent residents, or

other eligible non-U.S. citizens. The U.S. government also provides financial

aid for students. To learn more about financial aid, see below or visit www.

StudentAid.gov.

Federal Financial Aid for College Students

The U.S. government provides financial aid to help students pay for their

education expenses at an eligible college, technical school, vocational school,

or graduate school. Federal financial aid covers expenses such as tuition, fees,

room and board, book supplies, and transportation. Students generally qualify

for this aid based on their financial need, not their grades. There are three

types of federal aid:

●

Grants: money that you do not have to repay.

●

Work study: money that you earn by working while you are in school.

●

Loans: money that you borrow now but must repay later with interest.

For more information on federal financial aid programs, call 1-800-433-

3243 or visit the U.S. Department of Education website at www.StudentAid.

ed.gov/resources. Information is also available in Spanish.

Beware of Financial Aid Fraud

Be careful when you are searching for information about student financial assistance.

Avoid offers that seem too good to be true or that promise you results in exchange for

money. Every year, families lose millions of dollars to scholarship fraud. If you are the

victim of fraud or for more information, call the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-

382-4357 or 1-866-653-4261 (for hearing impaired). You can also visit their website

at www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0082-scholarship-and-financial-aid-scams.

6767

Adult Education

Learning does not have to end when you become an adult. In the United

States, people are encouraged to become lifelong learners. If you are 16

years of age or older and have not completed high school, you can enroll

in Adult Secondary Education (ASE) classes. These classes prepare you to

earn the recognized equivalent of a high school diploma (such as a General

Educational Development [GED] certificate).

A GED certificate is the most well-known equivalent to a high school

diploma, although some states may require that you take another test that

is similar to the GED or meet other requirements in order to obtain a high

school equivalency diploma or certificate. A high school equivalency diploma

or certificate (such as a GED) shows that you have learned high school-level

academic knowledge and skills. To earn a GED, you must pass tests in four

different areas: reasoning through language arts (reading and writing), social

studies, science, and mathematical reasoning. Most U.S. employers consider a

GED credential to be equal to a regular high school diploma. In many areas,

GED preparation classes are free or low cost. Search the Internet for GED and

other adult education courses, or call your local

school district office for information.

Many adults take classes to learn more about a

subject that interests them or to learn new skills

that can help them in their jobs. Many public

school systems and local community colleges offer

a wide range of adult education classes. Typically,

these classes have low fees and anyone can enroll.

Check with your local school system or community

college to find out what classes are available, how

much they cost, and how you can enroll.

Learn English

There are many places where you can learn how to speak, read, and write in

English. Many children and adults enroll in English as a second language (ESL)

classes. ESL classes help people who do not know English learn the language.

These classes are also called English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

or English literacy classes.

Children who do not know English will learn it in school. America’s public

schools provide help and instruction for all students who need to learn

English.

Adults who do not understand English can enroll in an ESL class offered in a

public adult and community education program or a private language school.

Your child’s school may offer family literacy services, parent outreach, and

training for parents of non-English speakers. Contact your child’s school to

find out if it offers these programs.

School districts and community colleges often offer public adult and

community education programs in local communities. These programs may

provide ESL classes along with tutoring from local volunteers. These programs

are often free or may charge a small fee. Classes may meet during day or

evening hours. Call your local community college or school district office to

learn about ESL classes they offer.

Most large cities also have private language schools that offer day or evening

ESL classes. The cost for private language classes is often based on the number

of hours of instruction, and they are generally more expensive than public

classes. You can search the Internet for private language schools in your area.

Some community organizations, libraries, and religious groups also offer free

or low-cost ESL classes. Check with your local public library, social service

agency, or place of worship. The reference librarian at the local library may tell

you about ESL programs and show you where to find ESL books, tapes, CDs,

and computer software at the library.

To find the nearest ESL program, visit www.literacydirectory.org. You can

also study online by visiting www.usalearns.org.

6969

Call 211 for Information on Social Services

You can call 211 in many states to get help finding the services you need. Call 211 to find out where you can

enroll in ESL classes in your neighborhood. You can also call 211 if you need help finding food, housing, or other

social services. Some states and counties do not yet offer 211 services. To see if 211 is available in your area, visit

www.211.org.

Health Care

Generally, people in the United States pay for their own medical care either

directly or through insurance. Medical care is expensive, so it is beneficial

to work for an employer that offers you health insurance or to buy health

insurance on your own. It is important that you and your family get health

insurance as soon as possible.

Employers may offer health insurance as a benefit to their

employees. Some employers pay for all of your monthly

health care coverage cost while some pay only part of the

cost. This monthly cost is called a premium. You may

need to pay part of the premium. Usually, employers

will deduct your part of the premium from your

paycheck. Some employers will also allow you to

buy insurance for your family. You will probably

have to pay more for this coverage.

If you have health insurance, doctors may send

their bills to your health insurance company. The

health insurance company may pay some or all of

these bills. Often you must pay an amount to the

doctor or service provider each time you use their

health care services. This is sometimes called a co-

payment.

If you do not have health insurance, some doctors will expect you

to pay for the full cost of your care. You may be able to get federal or state

health care assistance. States provide some type of assistance to low-income

children, pregnant women, and people living with disabilities. Some states

have additional state-funded assistance programs.

If you need immediate medical care, you can go to the emergency room

of the nearest hospital to receive treatment. Most hospitals with emergency

departments are required by federal law to treat individuals with an urgent

medical condition even if the person cannot pay, however, the health care

providers may issue a bill for the medical services provided.

When making decisions about your health, it is important to know where

to get the latest, most reliable information. For a wide range of resources on

health-related topics, visit www.healthfinder.gov.

Health Insurance Marketplace

The Health Insurance Marketplace (or health insurance exchange) is a way

to find quality health insurance that fits your budget and meets your needs.

It can help if you do not have affordable insurance from your employer or

if you do not qualify for coverage under Medicare, Medicaid, or Children’s

Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The Marketplace will allow you to compare

certain types of private health insurance plans, get answers to questions,

find out if you are eligible for financial support to help pay for the cost of

coverage, and enroll in a health care plan that meets your needs. Permanent

residents and certain other people with lawful immigration status may qualify

for Marketplace insurance. For the most up to date information, visit www.

HealthCare.gov.

Finding a Low-Cost Health Care Facility

Most communities have at least one health care facility that provides free or low-cost services. These are sometimes

called clinics or community health centers. To find this type of resource near you, search the Internet or ask an

immigrant-serving organization if they know of a low-cost or free health care facility in your area.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services funds health care facilities in many locations across the country

that provide basic health care to immigrants. To find a doctor near you, visit http://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.

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Federal and State Health Programs

Medicare: Medicare is a health insurance program for people who are 65

years old or older, under age 65 with certain disabilities, or have end-stage

renal disease. Medicare pays for primary care and certain services if you are

sick or injured. For more information about how to enroll in Medicare, visit

www.medicare.gov/MedicareEligibility/home.asp.

Medicare has several parts, including Part A, Part B, and Part D.

●

Part A is hospital insurance that helps cover inpatient care in

MEDICARE

1-800-MEDICA

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HEALTH INSURANCE

hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and home health

care. Most people do not pay a Part A premium because they

paid Medicare taxes while working. If you are not eligible for

premium-free Part A, you may be able to buy Part A if you

meet certain conditions.

●

Part B is medical insurance that helps cover services, such as

doctors’ services, outpatient care, durable medical equipment,

home health services, and other medical services as well as some

preventive services. For Part B, you pay a monthly premium.

●

Part D is prescription drug coverage that helps cover the costs of certain

medications doctors prescribe for treatment. Enrolling in a Medicare Part

D plan is voluntary, and you pay an additional monthly premium for this

coverage.

Permanent residents can get Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D if they meet

certain conditions. Permanent residents who are 65 years old or older are

automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A when they start getting Social

Security retirement benefits. If you are not 65 but are eligible for other

reasons, call the Social Security office near you for information about

enrolling. Generally, you must have worked in the United States for 10 years

(or 40 quarters) over the course of your life to receive these Part A Medicare

benefits without paying a premium. For more information about Medicare

and to download Medicare & You—the official U.S. government Medicare

handbook—visit www.medicare.gov. Information is also available in Spanish.

Medicaid: Medicaid is a joint federal-state program for low-income residents.

Each state has its own Medicaid guidelines. Medicaid pays for certain medical

services, such as visits to the doctor, prescription drugs, and hospitalization.

Permanent residents who entered the United States before August 22, 1996,

may be able to receive Medicaid if they meet certain conditions. Most

permanent residents who entered the United States on or after August 22, 1996,

may be able to get Medicaid benefits if they have lived in the United States for

five years or longer and meet certain conditions. For more information about

Medicaid services in your state, visit www.medicaid.gov.

Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP): Your children

may be able to get free or low-cost health care through a state

CHIP if they meet certain conditions. If your income is too high

to qualify for Medicaid, some states have a health insurance

program for infants, children, and teenagers. This insurance

pays for doctor visits, prescription medicines, hospital care,

and other health care services. In most states, children ages

18 and younger without health insurance and whose families

meet certain income limits are eligible. Children can receive

free or low-cost health care without affecting their parents’

immigration status.

More Information about Medicaid and CHIP

Each state has its own Medicaid and CHIP rules, so it is important to find out about the program in your state. For

information, call 1-877-543-7669 or visit www.insurekidsnow.gov.

Other Federal Benefits Programs

You or members of your family may be eligible for other federal benefits,

depending on your immigration status, length of time in the United States,

and income level. To learn more about what services might be available to

you, visit www.benefits.gov.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

(SNAP)

Some immigrants, including children, may be eligible for the Supplemental

Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP provides you with funds to help

you buy food at grocery stores. Some states have their own state-funded

food assistance programs with different rules for immigrant eligibility that

may vary from state to state. For information about SNAP and the eligibility

requirements, visit www.fns.usda.gov/snap. Information about SNAP

is available in 36 different languages at www.fns.usda.gov/documents-

available-other-languages.

7373

Services for Survivors of Domestic Violence

Immigrants and their children who are survivors of domestic violence may be

eligible for federal benefits and services, such as housing at battered women’s

shelters or SNAP. For more information about these services, visit

www.womenshealth.gov/violence-against-women.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is a federal program that provides

assistance and work opportunities for qualified low-income families.

Programs differ by state, and some states have their own state-funded

assistance program. For more information and eligibility requirements,

visit www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/programs/tanf.

Assistance for Disabled Immigrants

Immigrants with disabilities may be eligible for Medicaid, SNAP, and

Supplemental Security Income. For information about Supplemental Security

Income, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi.

One-Stop Career Centers

The federal government funds career centers that

offer training referrals, career counseling, job

listings, and other employment-related services.

ESL classes and job skills training are also offered to

immigrants at some of these centers.

To find a One-Stop Career Center near you, visit

www.careeronestop.org or www.doleta.gov.

757575

Keeping Your Home and Family Safe

Emergencies are unexpected events that can cause harm to people and property. Emergencies can happen

to anyone at any time. This section tells you how you can prepare for emergencies and how to get help

when they happen.

Be Prepared

Prepare for emergencies before they happen. For information on how to

prepare for an emergency, visit www.ready.gov. This comprehensive website

provides information on how to get ready for an emergency so that you can

keep your home and family safe.

Here are some things you can do to prepare:

●

Be sure your doors have good locks and keep them locked at all times. Do

not give your house keys to strangers. If a stranger knocks on your door,

ask who they are and what they want before opening the door.

●

Smoke alarms make a loud noise when there is smoke in your house or

apartment. Make sure you have smoke alarms on the ceiling near bedrooms

and on each level of your house. Check the alarm each month to make sure

it works. Replace the batteries in your smoke alarms at least once a year.

●

Find out where the nearest hospital and police and fire stations are located.

Keep all important phone numbers near your phone where you can easily

find them in the event of an emergency.

●

Find out where the main valves for gas, electricity, and water are in your

home. Be sure you know how to turn them off by hand. If you do not

know how to find them, ask your landlord, local utility company, or

neighbors.

●

Prepare a disaster kit that includes a flashlight,

portable radio, extra batteries, blankets, first-aid

supplies, and enough canned or packaged food

and bottled water to last for at least three days.

Be sure to include trash bags, toilet paper, and

pet food, if needed. Keep all of these things in

one place where it is easy to find them.

●

Practice with your family how to get out of

your house in case of a fire or other emergency.

Make sure your children know what the smoke alarm sounds like and what

to do if they hear it. Plan a place to meet your family if you have to leave

your home. Choose one spot outside of your home to meet and another

spot outside of your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home. Ask a

friend or family member living in another area to be the main person your

family will call if you are separated in an emergency. Make sure everyone

knows to call this person and has his or her phone number.

7777

●

Ask about emergency plans at your child’s school. Make sure your child

knows what to do in the event of an emergency and where you can meet

him or her. Your child should know your phone number and address.

What You Can Do

To help keep your neighborhood safe, get to know your neighbors. Talk with them about

how to handle an emergency in your area. If you have neighbors with disabilities, see if

they will need special help in the event of an emergency.

Many neighborhoods have a Neighborhood Watch, which teaches residents

how to help themselves by identifying and reporting suspicious activity in their

neighborhoods. If there is a Neighborhood Watch in your area, you can volunteer to

participate. If you want to start a Neighborhood Watch, call your local police department. For more information, visit

www.nnw.org.

You help your community and nation when you help others stay safe. You can get more involved in your community

through your local Citizen Corps Council. For more information, visit www.citizencorps.gov.

First Aid

Learn how to help in certain emergency situations, such as when someone

is bleeding or choking. This is called first aid. You can take a first-aid

training class through your local Red Cross. Call your local Red Cross office

or the National Safety Council to ask about classes in your area. For more

information, visit www.redcross.org or www.nsc.org/learn/Safety-

Training/Pages/first-aid-training.aspx.

Keep a first-aid kit at home, at work, and in your car. A first-aid kit has items

you can use for small injuries or for pain, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes,

medicine, instant ice packs, and gloves. You can buy a first aid kit at your local

drugstore.

Poison Control

Many things in your home can be poisonous if they are ingested. These can

include cleaning products, medicine, paint, alcohol, cosmetics, and even some

plants. Keep these things away from young children.

If someone swallows a poisonous substance, call the Poison Control Center

immediately at 1-800-222-1222. You can get help 24 hours a day, seven days

a week. Have the poisonous substance with you when you call so you can tell

the operator what it is. If you do not speak English, tell the operator so an

interpreter can help you. Calls to the Poison Control Center are confidential

and free.

Stay Informed

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recognizes that everyone

shares a responsibility for the nation’s security and should be aware of the

heightened risk of a terrorist attack in the United States. DHS has a system to

help people understand the risk of a terrorist attack or any other threat to the

nation’s security. This system is called The National Terrorism Advisory System

(NTAS).

NTAS alerts are issued when there is credible information that there is a threat

to the nation’s security. The two types of alerts are:

●

Imminent Threat Alert: This alert warns of a credible, specific, and

impending terrorist threat against the United States.

●

Elevated Threat Alert: This alert warns of a credible terrorist threat against

the United States.

For more information, visit www.dhs.gov/alerts.

If you would like to receive mobile updates, visit www.twitter.com/

NTASAlerts.

The U.S. government can use the NTAS to provide information to the public

in the event of an emergency. The Secretary of Homeland Security can use

this system to provide immediate information to the public when a terrorist

attack occurs. State and local governments may also use the NTAS to provide

emergency information to the public.

TIP

If a terrorist attack, natural disaster, or other emergency occurs, listen to what

local authorities tell you to do. Listen to the radio or television for instructions.

Have a television or radio in your home that works on batteries in case electricity

in your area is temporarily lost.

7979

What You Can Do

DHS helps the nation learn about possible dangers so that residents can be ready to react during a terrorist attack or

natural disaster. DHS provides information to help you make your family, your home, and your community safer. Call

1-800-BE-READY or visit www.ready.gov.

You can get a guide entitled Are You Ready? An In-Depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness, which contains tips on

how to make your family, your home, and your community safer. You can get this guide from the Federal Emergency

Management Agency by visiting www.ready.gov/are-you-ready-guide. You also can get materials from the DHS

website at www.ready.gov/publications.

Respond to an Emergency

Emergency Help by Phone

In the United States, 911 is a number you can call on any telephone to get

emergency help. 911 should only be used in the event of an emergency. Teach

your family about when it is and is not appropriate to call 911. Examples are

listed below.

Call 911 to:

●

Report a fire;

●

Report a crime in progress;

●

Request emergency medical help;

●

Report a gas leak; and

●

Report suspicious activities, such as screams,

calls for help, or gunshots.

Do Not Call 911 to:

●

Ask for directions;

●

Ask for information about public services;

●

Find out if someone is in jail;

●

Report situations that are not emergencies;

●

Ask for information about animal control; or

●

Talk to a police officer.

Call 911 for serious, life-threatening emergencies only. Calling 911 for the

wrong reason may keep someone else from getting the help he or she needs.

If you have a question for the police, call the non-emergency number for the

police department listed in your phone book.

What Happens When I Call 911?

●

Calls to 911 are usually answered within 12

seconds. You may be put on hold. When the

operator answers, there will be silence on the

phone for several seconds. Do not hang up. Wait

for the operator to speak.

●

If you do not speak English, tell the operator

what language you speak. An interpreter should

come on the line.

●

The 911 operator will ask you questions to find

out what and where the emergency is. Keep calm

and answer these questions. Try to stay on the

phone with the operator until you answer all

questions.

Law Enforcement in the United States

In the United States, there are federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies that protect the public. In your

community, law enforcement officers are the police or sheriff. Find out the phone number of the police station nearest

you and keep it next to your telephone. Remember that police officers are there to protect you and your family

from harm. Do not be afraid to report a crime, especially if you are the victim. Some criminals take advantage of

immigrants because they think you will not report the crime to the police. If you are stopped by a police officer:

●

Do not be afraid.

●

Be polite and cooperative.

●

Tell the officer if you do not speak English.

●

If you are in a car, do not get out of the car until the officer tells you to do so.

●

Keep your hands where the officer can see them. Do not reach into your pockets or into other areas of the car.

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Natural Disaster Assistance

Natural disasters can strike anytime and anywhere.

Natural disasters come in many forms, such as

tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, or earthquakes. In

the event you are affected by a natural disaster,

access disaster help and resources at www.

disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-

FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (for hearing

impaired).

If You See Something, Say

Something™

Federal and state officials ask all people living in the United States to help

fight terrorism. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when you travel on

public buses, trains, and airplanes. If you see a suspicious item that has been

left behind, such as a briefcase, backpack, or paper bag, report it immediately

to the nearest police officer or other authority. Do not open or remove the

item yourself. For more information, visit www.dhs.gov.

838383

Learning About the United States

The United States is a representative democracy, and citizens play a very important role in governing the

country. In this section, you will learn about how citizens shape the U.S. government, how the United

States was founded and grew, and how our government operates.

We the People: The Role of the

Citizen in the United States

In the United States, the government gets its power to govern from the

people. We have a government of the people, by the people, and for the

people. Citizens in the United States shape their government and its policies,

so they must learn about important public issues and get involved in their

communities. U.S. citizens vote in free elections to choose important

government officials, such as the president, vice president, senators, and

representatives. Constituents can call their elected officials to express an

opinion, ask for information, or get help with specific issues.

Our government is based on several important values: freedom, opportunity,

equality, and justice. Americans share these values, and these values give us a

common civic identity.

Government in the United States protects the rights of each person. The

United States is made up of people from different backgrounds, cultures,

and religions. Our government and laws are organized so that citizens from

different backgrounds and with different beliefs all have the same rights.

No one can be punished or harmed for having an opinion or belief that is

different from that of other people.

Of, By, and For the People: What Is Democracy?

The word “democracy” means “government by the people.” Democracy can have different forms in different countries.

In the United States, we have what is called a representative democracy. This means that the people choose officials

to represent their views and concerns in the government.

8585

How the United States Began

The early colonists and settlers who came to the

United States were often fleeing unfair treatment,

especially religious persecution, in their home

countries. They were seeking freedom and new

opportunities. Today, many people come to the

United States for these same reasons.

Before it became a separate and independent

nation, the United States was made up of 13

colonies that were ruled by Great Britain. People

living in the colonies had no say in which

laws were passed or how they were governed.

They especially objected to taxation without

representation. This means that people had to pay

taxes, but they had no say in how their government

operated.

By 1776, many people believed that this policy

was unfair and that they should govern themselves.

Representatives from the colonies issued a

Declaration of Independence. This important document declared that the

colonies were free, independent, and no longer ruled by Great Britain.

Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. He later became the

third president of the United States.

The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. Americans

celebrate July 4 every year as Independence Day because it is our nation’s

birthday.

The United States had to fight for its freedom from Great Britain in the

Revolutionary War. General George Washington led the Continental Army in

the American Revolution. He is known as the “Father of Our Country.” Later,

he became the first president of the United States.

After the colonies won the war, they became states. Each state had its

own government. The people in these states wanted to create a new form

of government to unite the states into a single nation. Today, this central

government, our national government, is called the federal government. The

United States now consists of 50 states; the District of Columbia (a special

area that is the home of the federal government); the territories of Guam,

American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands; and the Commonwealths of the

Northern Mariana Islands and Puerto Rico.

The United States and the Original Thirteen Colonies

The thirteen colonies were founded in the following order: Virginia, Massachusetts, Maryland, Connecticut, Rhode

Island, Delaware, New Hampshire, North Carolina, South Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.

8787

“All Men Are Created Equal”

Many Americans have memorized these words from the Declaration of Independence:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with

certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

This means that all people are born with the same basic rights. Government does not create these rights, and no

government can take these rights away.

Creating “A More Perfect Union”

For several years after the American Revolution, the states tried different

ways to join together in a central government, but this government was too

weak. In 1787, the representatives from each state gathered in Philadelphia,

Pennsylvania, to develop a new, stronger central government. This meeting

was called the Constitutional Convention. After much debate, leaders from

the states drafted a document describing the new government. This document

was called the United States Constitution. The Constitution described how

the new government would be organized, how government officials would

be chosen, and what rights the new central government would guarantee

to citizens. Today, the Constitution remains one of the most important

documents in American history.

The United States Flag

The United States flag has changed over our history. Now it has 13 stripes to represent

the original 13 American colonies. It has 50 stars, one for each state. The American

national anthem, called “The Star-Spangled Banner,” was written about the flag. The flag

is also called “Old Glory” or “Stars and Stripes.”

The members of the

Constitutional Convention

signed the Constitution on

September 17, 1787, and then

all 13 states had to approve

it. Some people believed that

the Constitution did not do

enough to protect the rights of

individuals. The states agreed

to approve the Constitution if

a list of individual rights were

added to it. The states approved

the Constitution in 1788 and

it went into effect in 1789.

Changes to the Constitution are

called amendments. The first 10

amendments to the Constitution

were added in 1791. These first

10 amendments list individual rights. They are called the Bill of Rights.

The United States is a nation governed by laws. Government officials make

decisions based on those laws. The Constitution is known as the supreme

law of the land because every citizen, including all government officials, and

every new law must uphold its principles. Laws apply equally to everyone.

The federal government has limited powers. Powers not given directly to the

federal government by the Constitution are held by the states.

“We the People”

“We the People” are the first three words of the United States Constitution. The Constitution begins by explaining

why it was written and what it intended to accomplish. This section is called the preamble. The preamble to the

Constitution reads:

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic

Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to

ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

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The Bill of Rights: The First 10 Amendments

The first changes to the Constitution were made to protect individual citizens

and to limit the power of government. The Bill of Rights lists important

individual freedoms that are promised to the American people. Some of these

rights include:

●

Freedom of Speech: You are free to think and speak as you want.

●

Freedom of Religion: You are free to practice any religion or not

practice a religion.

●

Freedom of the Press: The government cannot decide what is printed

or reported in the media.

●

Freedom to Gather or Assemble in Public Places: You are free to

meet with other people in a peaceful way.

●

Freedom to Protest Government Actions and Demand Change:

You are free to challenge government actions with which you do not

agree.

In most cases, the Bill of Rights protects your right to bear arms. The Bill

of Rights also guarantees due process. Due process is a set of specific legal

procedures that must be followed if you are accused of a crime. Police officers

and soldiers cannot stop and search you without a valid reason, and they

cannot search your home without permission from a court. If you are accused

of a crime, you are guaranteed a speedy trial by a jury made up of people like

you. You are guaranteed legal representation and can call witnesses to speak

for you. You are also protected from cruel and unusual punishment.

Changing the Constitution

The United States Constitution is called a living document because the American people, acting through their state

and national representatives, can change it when necessary. These changes are called amendments. It is a long and

difficult process to amend the Constitution, and it has only been amended 27 times. Besides the Bill of Rights, some

important amendments are the Thirteenth, which forbids slavery; the Fourteenth, which guarantees all citizens equal

protection under the law; and the Nineteenth, which gives women the right to vote.

How the Federal Government

Works

The original 13 colonies had lived under the total power of the British

king. In their new central government, Americans wanted to prevent a

concentration of power in one government official or one office. The

Constitution created three branches for the federal government so that power

would be balanced. The three branches have separate responsibilities. We call

this the system of checks and balances. This means that no single branch of

government can become too powerful because it is balanced by the other two

branches.

The Federal Government

The three branches of the federal government are:

The Legislative Branch

The Executive Branch

The Judicial Branch

the United States Congress and

the president, vice president,

the Supreme Court of the United

related offices

and departments of the federal

States and federal courts across the

government

country

9191

The Legislative Branch: Congress

Citizens of the United States vote in free elections to choose people to

represent them in the United States Congress. Congress has the responsibility

of making the laws for our nation. Congress is made up of the House of

Representatives and the Senate.

The United States House of Representatives

People in each state vote to choose members of the House of Representatives.

There are 435 voting members of the House of Representatives, which is

often called “the House.” The number of representatives from each state

depends on how many people live in that state. States are divided into

districts. People living in each district vote for someone to represent their

district in the House. Each representative serves for two years, and then people

have another chance to vote for their representative to remain in office or for

a different person to represent them. Representatives can serve in Congress for

an unlimited period of time.

There are five additional delegates in the House; these are the representatives

of the District of Columbia, the

Commonwealth of the Mariana Islands, and

the territories of Guam, American Samoa,

and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A resident

commissioner represents Puerto Rico.

The House of Representatives makes laws,

and it has some special responsibilities.

Only the House of Representatives can:

●

Propose laws about taxes.

●

Decide if a government official accused

of committing a crime against the

country should be put on trial in the

Senate. This is called impeachment.

The United States Senate

There are 100 senators in the Senate. People in each state vote to choose two

senators to represent them in Congress. Senators serve for six years, and then

people have another chance to re-elect those senators or to vote for a different

person to represent them. Senators can serve in Congress for an unlimited

period of time. Senators make laws, but they also have special responsibilities.

Only the Senate can:

●

Say yes or no to any agreements the president makes with other countries

or organizations of countries. These are called treaties.

●

Approve or not approve individuals the president chooses for high-level

jobs, such as Supreme Court justices or officials to run federal departments,

such as the Department of Education or the Department of Health and

Human Services.

●

Hold a trial for a government official who has been impeached by the

House of Representatives.

Government Officials Serve the People

In the United States, everyone can contact their elected representative and senators. Visit www.house.gov or

www.senate.gov to identify your representative or senator. You can call 202-224-3121 and ask for your

representative’s or senators’ offices. This is not a free call. You can write to your representative or senators to ask

questions or to give your opinion about legislation and the federal government, or if you have a problem and need

help with federal benefits.

To write to your representative:

To write to your senator:

The Honorable (add representative’s full name)

The Honorable (add senator’s full name)

U.S. House of Representatives

United States Senate

Washington, DC 20515

Washington, DC 20510

You can visit the websites of Congress to learn about current activities in the House and Senate and about your own

representative and senators, including their website addresses.

●

For the House of Representatives, visit www.house.gov.

●

For the Senate, visit www.senate.gov.

9393

What You Can Do

Learn about your representative and senators and what they are doing to represent you in Congress. You can do this

by looking for stories about them in your local newspaper and visiting their websites. All senators and representatives

have local offices in their home communities. You can find these listed in the phone book or by searching for them by

name on the Internet. If you visit Washington, DC, you can take a free tour of the U.S. Capitol, where Congress works.

The Executive Branch: The

President

The president is the leader of the executive branch and is responsible for

upholding and enforcing the laws of the country. The president has many

other responsibilities, such as setting national policies, proposing laws to

Congress, and choosing high-level officials and members of the Supreme

Court. The president also is the leader of the United States military and is

called the commander in chief.

People vote in elections for the president and vice president every four years.

The president can only serve in office for two four-year terms. The vice

president becomes president if the president dies, resigns, or can no longer

work.

You can learn about the president by visiting the website for the White House,

the president’s home and office, at www.whitehouse.gov.

The Judicial Branch: The Supreme

Court

The Constitution created the Supreme Court, the highest court in the United

States. There are nine judges on the Supreme Court. They are called justices.

The president chooses the justices of the Supreme Court, and they serve as

long as they are able. The Supreme Court can overrule both state and federal

laws if they conflict with the Constitution. There are also other federal courts,

such as the U.S. District Courts and the U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals.

To learn more about the Supreme Court of the United States, visit

www.supremecourt.gov.

State and Local Government

In addition to the federal government, each state has its own constitution

and government. Each state government also has three branches: legislative,

executive, and judicial.

The leader of the state executive branch is called the governor. The people of

each state vote in elections to choose their governor and their representatives

to the state legislature. The state legislature makes the laws that apply in each

state. These laws cannot go against the U.S. Constitution. Each state judicial

branch upholds the laws of that state.

Each state also has local governments. There are city

or county governments, or sometimes both. They

provide and oversee many services in your local

community, such as public schools, libraries, police

and fire departments, and water, gas, and electric

services. People in local communities usually vote for

local government officials, but some local officials are

appointed. Local governments have different forms.

Some have mayors as their leaders; others have city

or county councils. Local communities also have

school boards, a group of citizens who are elected or

appointed to oversee the public schools.

What You Can Do

Many local government meetings are open to the public and are held at night so that anyone can attend. For

example, you can go to a city council meeting or a school board meeting to learn more about what is going on in your

community. The meeting times and locations are usually listed in the local newspaper or on the local government’s

website. Some local government meetings are broadcast on the local cable television channel.

9595

Experience the United States

You can learn more about the United States by visiting our national parks,

which include some of our nation’s most majestic and historic sites. You can

experience your America in national parks such as:

●

Yellowstone National Park, with the

world’s largest collection of geysers,

including Old Faithful.

●

Independence National Historical Park,

home to Independence Hall and the

Liberty Bell.

●

Mammoth Cave National Park, which

contains the longest cave system in the

world.

●

Denali National Park and Preserve, home

to North America’s tallest mountain,

Mount McKinley.

The National Park System includes more than 400 national monuments,

battlefields, historic sites, seashores, and more. National parks are located in

every state, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories.

To learn more about our national parks, visit the National Park Service website

at www.nps.gov.

979797

Becoming a U.S. Citizen

Becoming a U.S. citizen gives permanent residents new rights and privileges. Citizenship also brings with

it new responsibilities. This section discusses reasons to consider U.S. citizenship and describes what you

need to do to become a citizen.

Why Become a U.S. Citizen?

To become a citizen, you must be willing to:

●

Swear your loyalty to the United States;

●

Give up your allegiance to any other country; and

●

Support and defend the United States and its Constitution.

When you become a citizen, you accept all of the responsibilities of being an

American. In return, you get certain rights and privileges. Permanent residents

have most of the rights of U.S. citizens, but there are many important reasons to

consider becoming a U.S. citizen, such as:

●

Voting: Only citizens can vote in federal

elections. In most states, only U.S. citizens are

allowed to vote in elections.

●

Serving on a Jury: Only U.S. citizens can serve

on a federal jury. In most states, only U.S.

citizens are allowed to serve on a jury. Serving

on a jury is an important responsibility for U.S.

citizens.

●

Traveling with a U.S. Passport: A U.S. passport

enables U.S. citizens to get assistance from the

U.S. government when overseas, if necessary.

●

Bringing Family Members to the United States: Generally, U.S. citizens

get priority when petitioning to bring family members permanently to this

country.

●

Obtaining Citizenship for Children Born Abroad: In most cases, a child

born abroad to a U.S. citizen is automatically a U.S. citizen.

9999

●

Becoming Eligible for Federal Jobs: Certain jobs with

government agencies require U.S. citizenship.

●

Becoming an Elected Official: Only citizens can

run for federal office and for most state and local

offices.

●

Keeping Your Residency: A U.S. citizen’s right

to remain in the United States cannot be taken

away.

●

Becoming Eligible for Federal Grants and

Scholarships: Many financial aid grants,

including college scholarships and funds given by

the government for specific purposes, are available

only to U.S. citizens.

●

Obtaining Government Benefits: Some government

benefits are available only to U.S. citizens.

Getting Naturalization Information

People 18 years old or older who want to become citizens should get Form M-476, A Guide to Naturalization. This

guide has important information on the requirements for naturalization. It also describes the forms you will need to

begin the naturalization process.

To see if you are eligible to apply for naturalization, visit the Citizenship Resource Center at www.uscis.gov/

citizenship. Use Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to apply for naturalization. There is a fee to file Form

N-400. To check the fee for filing Form N-400 or any USCIS form, visit www.uscis.gov/fees.

To get Forms M-476 and N-400, call the USCIS Forms Line at 1-800-870-3676 or get them from www.uscis.gov.

For more specific information about USCIS policies and naturalization eligibility requirements, review the USCIS Policy

Manual at www.uscis.gov/policymanual. The Policy Manual is USCIS’ centralized online repository for immigration

policies.

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Naturalization: Becoming a U.S.

Citizen

The process of becoming a U.S. citizen is called naturalization. In general, you

can apply for naturalization once you meet the following requirements:

Requirements for Naturalization

1. Continuous residence: Live in the United States as a permanent resident for

a specific amount of time.

2. Physical presence: Show that you have been physically present in the

United States for specific time periods.

3. Time in state or USCIS district: Show that you have lived in your state or

USCIS district for a specific amount of time.

4. Good moral character: Show that you have behaved in a legal and

acceptable manner.

5. English and civics: Know basic English and information about U.S. history

and government.

6. Attachment to the Constitution: Understand and accept the principles of

the U.S. Constitution.

You may qualify for certain exceptions and modifications if:

●

You are a U.S. national;

●

You are employed abroad in a qualifying category;

●

You have qualifying military service; or

●

You are the spouse, child, or parent of certain U.S. citizens.

Consult Form M-476, A Guide to Naturalization, for more information at

www.uscis.gov/natzguide. You may also wish to consult an immigration

attorney or BIA-accredited representative. See page 21 for more

information.

101101

1. Continuous Residence

Continuous residence means that you must live in the United States as

a permanent resident for a certain period of time. Most people must be

permanent residents in continuous residence for five years (or three years if

married to a U.S. citizen) before they can begin the naturalization process.

The date you became a permanent resident (usually the date on your

Permanent Resident Card) is the date your five years begins. If you leave the

United States for a long period of time, usually six months or more, you may

break your continuous residence.

If you leave the United States for one year or longer, you may be able to

return if you have a re-entry permit. You should apply for this re-entry permit

before you depart the United States. See page 17 for information on how

to apply for a re-entry permit. In most cases, none of the time you were in

the United States before you left the country will count toward your time in

continuous residence. This means that you will need to begin your continuous

residence again after you return to the United States, and you may have to

wait up to four years and one day before you can apply for naturalization.

Additionally, if you must leave the United States for certain employment

purposes, you may need to file Form N-470, Application to Preserve

Residence for Naturalization Purposes, in order to preserve your status as a

permanent resident in order to pursue naturalization.

Be aware that absences from the United States while your naturalization

application is pending could cause problems with your eligibility, especially if

you accept employment abroad.

Maintaining Continuous ResidenCe as a PeRManent Resident

If you leave the

United States for:

Your residence status is: To keep your status you must:

More than

six months

Possibly broken

Prove that you continued to live, work, and/or have ties to the

United States (for example, paid taxes) while you were away.

In most cases, you must begin your continuous residence over.

Apply for a re-entry permit before you leave if you plan to return

More than one year Broken to the United States as a permanent resident. You may also

need to file Form N-470, Application to Preserve Residence for

Naturalization Purposes.

102

Preserving Your Residence for Naturalization Purposes: Exemptions for One-

Year Absences

If you work for the U.S. government, a recognized U.S. research institution, or certain U.S. corporations, or if you are a

member of the clergy serving abroad, you may be able to preserve your continuous residence if you:

1. Have been physically present and living in the United States without leaving for at least one year after becoming a

permanent resident.

2. Submit Form N-470, Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes, before you have been outside

the United States for one year. There is a fee to file Form N-470. To check the filing fee for Form N-470 or any

USCIS form, visit www.uscis.gov/fees.

For more information, contact the USCIS Forms Line at 1-800-870-3676 and ask for Form N-470. You can also get

the form on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.

Exemptions for Military Personnel

If you are on active duty status or were recently discharged from the U.S. armed forces, the continuous residence and

physical presence requirements may not apply to you. You can find more information in Form M-599, Naturalization

Information for Military Personnel. Every military base should have a point-of-contact to handle your naturalization

application and certify a Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service. You must submit Form

N-426 with your application forms. To get the forms you need, call the USCIS Military Help Line at 1-877-CIS-4MIL

(1-877-247-4645). You can find more information at www.uscis.gov/military or by calling Customer Service at

1-800-375-5283.

TIP

A re-entry permit (Form I-131, Application for Travel Document) and Form N-470,

Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes, are not the same.

You may show a re-entry permit instead of your Permanent Resident Card (if you

have been gone for less than 12 months) or instead of a visa (if you have been

gone for more than 12 months) when you want to re-enter the United States after

a temporary absence. However, if you wish to apply for naturalization and have

been absent for more than 12 months, you may need to also file Form N-470 in

order to preserve your residence for naturalization purposes.

103103

2. Physical Presence

Physical presence means that you actually have been present in the United

States. If you are a permanent resident, you must be physically present in the

United States for at least 30 months during the last five years (or 18 months

during the last three years, if married to a U.S. citizen) before you apply for

naturalization.

The Difference between Physical Presence and Continuous Residence

Physical presence is the total days you were inside the United States and does not include the time you spend

outside the United States. Each day you spend outside the United States takes away from your physical presence

total. If you are away from the United States for long periods of time or if you take many short trips outside the

country, you may not meet your physical presence requirement. To count your physical presence time, you should add

together all the time you have been in the United States. Then subtract all trips you have taken outside the United

States. This even includes short trips to Canada and Mexico. For example, if you go to Mexico for a weekend, you must

include the trip when counting how many days you spent out of the country.

Continuous residence is the total time you have resided as a permanent resident in the United States before applying

for naturalization. If you spend too much time outside the United States during a single trip, you may break your

continuous residence.

3. Time in State or USCIS District

Most people must live in the state or USCIS district where they apply for

naturalization for at least three months. Students can apply for naturalization

either where they go to school or where their family lives (if they depend on

their parents for support).

4. Good Moral Character

To be eligible for naturalization, you must be a person of good moral

character. A person is not considered to be of good moral character if he

or she commits certain crimes during the five years before applying for

naturalization, or if he or she does not tell the truth during the naturalization

interview.

104

Behaviors That Might Show a Lack of Good Moral Character

●

Drunk driving or being drunk on a regular basis

●

Illegal gambling

●

Prostitution

●

Lying to gain immigration benefits

●

Failing to pay court-ordered child support or alimony

●

Persecuting someone because of race, religion, national origin, political opinion, or social group

If you commit some specific crimes, you can never become a U.S. citizen

and will probably be removed from the country. These crimes are called

bars to naturalization. Crimes called aggravated felonies (if committed on

or after November 29, 1990), including: murder; rape; sexual abuse of a

child; violent assault; treason; and illegal trafficking in drugs, firearms, or

people are some examples of permanent bars to naturalization. In most cases,

immigrants who were exempted or discharged from serving in the U.S. armed

forces because they were immigrants and immigrants who deserted from the

U.S. armed forces are also permanently barred from U.S. citizenship.

You also may be denied citizenship if you behave in other ways that show you

lack good moral character.

Other crimes are temporary bars to naturalization. Temporary bars usually

prevent you from becoming a citizen for up to five years after you commit

the crime. These include:

●

Any crime against a person with intent to harm;

●

Any crime against property or the government involving fraud;

●

Two or more crimes with combined sentences of five years or more;

●

Violating controlled substance laws (for example, using or selling illegal

drugs); and

●

Spending 180 days or more during the past five years in jail or prison.

Report any crimes that you committed when you apply for naturalization.

This includes crimes removed from your record or committed before your

18th birthday. If you do not tell USCIS about them, you may be denied

citizenship and you could be prosecuted.

105105

5. English and Civics

In general, you must show that you can understand, read,

write, and speak basic English. You must also have a basic

knowledge of U.S. history and government (also known

as civics). You are required to pass an English and a civics

test to prove your knowledge.

Many schools and community organizations help people

prepare for their citizenship tests. You can find test

questions at www.uscis.gov/citizenship and www.

uscis.gov/teststudymaterials. USCIS offers a variety

of free study materials, such as booklets, flash cards,

practice tests, and videos. You can get information about

citizenship and English classes at www.uscis.gov/citizenship.

6. Attachment to the Constitution

You must be willing to support and defend the United States and its

Constitution. You declare your attachment or loyalty to the United States and

the Constitution when you take the Oath of Allegiance. You become a U.S. citizen

when you take the Oath of Allegiance.

In certain circumstances, there can be a modification of the Oath of Allegiance. If

you show that you have a physical or developmental disability that makes you

unable to understand the meaning of the Oath, it can be waived.

If you have a pending naturalization application and you move, you must

notify USCIS of your new address. File Form AR-11, Change of Address, within

10 days of your relocation. For more information or to change your address

online, visit www.uscis.gov/addresschange or call Customer Service at

1-800-375-5283. You must notify USCIS each time you change your address.

Exemptions, Exceptions, and Accommodations

English Language and Civics Exemptions

Some people who apply for naturalization have different test requirements

because of their age and the length of time they have lived in the United

States.

106

exeMPtions to the english and CiviCs RequiReMents

Lived as permanent

If you are: resident in the You do not take the: You must take the:

United States for:

Age 50 or older 20 years English test Civics test in your language

Age 55 or older 15 years English test Civics test in your language

Age 65 or older 20 years English test Simplified civics test in your language

If you do not have to take the English test, you must bring your own

translator for the civics test.

Medical Exceptions

If you have a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment(s),

you can seek an exception for the English and/or civics requirements. To get

more information, contact the USCIS Forms Line at 1-800-870-3676 and ask

for Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, or get a copy

from the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/n-648.

Disability Accommodations

USCIS makes every reasonable effort to help applicants with disabilities

complete the naturalization process. For example, if you use a wheelchair,

USCIS will make sure that you can be fingerprinted, interviewed, and

naturalized at a location that is wheelchair accessible. If you are deaf or

hearing impaired and need a sign language interpreter, USCIS will make

arrangements with you to have one at your interview. If you need an

accommodation due to a disability, please call Customer Service at 1-800-

375-5283 or 1-800-767-1833 (for hearing impaired) to request an

accommodation.

Naturalization Ceremonies

If USCIS approves your application for naturalization, you must attend a

ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance. USCIS will send you Form N-445,

Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony, to tell you the time and date of your

ceremony. You must complete this form and bring it to your ceremony.

107107

If you cannot go to your ceremony, you can reschedule your ceremony. To

reschedule, you must return Form N-445 to your local USCIS office along

with a letter explaining why you cannot attend the ceremony.

You will return your Permanent Resident Card to USCIS when you check in

at the ceremony. You will no longer need your card because you will get a

Certificate of Naturalization at the ceremony.

You are not a citizen until you have taken the Oath of Allegiance. An official

will read each part of the Oath slowly and ask you to repeat the words. After

you take the Oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization. This

certificate proves that you are a U.S. citizen.

The Oath of Allegiance ceremony is a public event. Many communities hold

special ceremonies on Independence Day, July 4, of each year. Check to see

if your community holds a special July 4 citizenship ceremony and how

you can participate. Many people bring their families and celebrate after the

ceremony.

You’re on Your Way

We hope that you find this guide useful. It was

written to help you as you start your life in the United

States and to help you understand your rights and

responsibilities as a permanent resident. The guide

tells you ways that you can become involved in your

community. It also tells you some of the things that

you will have to learn about if you wish to become a

naturalized citizen. Visit the USCIS website at www.

uscis.gov to learn more. You will find other helpful

materials at www.welcometousa.gov.

Now that you are here, you have a chance to experience

everything that life can be in this country. We welcome

you as a permanent resident, and we wish you a

successful life in the United States.

www.uscis.gov

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