Starting a new life in the United States as an immigrant can be both exciting and challenging. Beyond the cultural and financial adjustments, knowing your legal rights is essential. These rights can help you save money, protect yourself, and make daily life much easier.

 

In this guide, we highlight 7 key legal rights every immigrant in the U.S. should know in 2025.

 

Many U.S. hospitals offer “charity care” or “financial assistance” programs for uninsured patients or those struggling with payments.

 

After receiving your bill, you can contact the hospital’s billing department to:

•Request a payment plan,

•Ask for a one-time discount,

•Or, in some cases, have your bill completely forgiven.

 

👉 Many patients save 30–70% through these programs.

 

 

If you cannot pay your tax debt, the IRS offers short-term and long-term payment plans.

•Short-term plan: For debts payable within 180 days.

•Long-term plan: For debts exceeding 6 months with monthly payments.

 

📌 You can apply online at IRS.gov. Timely application helps protect your credit score.

 

Major banks such as Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo often allow customers to deposit funds within 24 hours of going negative to avoid overdraft fees.

 

This “grace period” can be especially helpful for those waiting on paychecks.

 

💡 Tip: Check your bank’s mobile app under “Overdraft Settings” to see if the “No fee if covered in 24 hours” option is available.

 

 

In almost every U.S. state, landlords are legally required to provide functioning smoke detectors in rental properties.

 

If detectors are not replaced or repaired after written notice, tenants may:

•Claim fire safety risks,

•Request rent reduction, contract termination, or file complaints with housing authorities.

 

 

Immigrants without a credit history can apply for a secured credit card and use it responsibly to build credit.

 

Tips:

•Keep spending below 30% of your limit,

•Pay in full each month,

•Set up automatic payments,

•Monitor progress with apps like “Credit Karma.”

 

👉 A good credit score helps not only with loans but also with renting apartments and opening phone lines.

 

If you miss a payment for utilities (electricity, water, internet) or credit cards for the first time, you can call customer service to request a late fee waiver.

 

Many companies grant this if you have a history of on-time payments. Some may also keep the delay off your credit report.

 

 

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance for eligible low-income immigrants.

 

With the SNAP card, you can:

•Pay at checkout just like a debit card,

•Shop without anyone knowing it’s food assistance (the card doesn’t say “food stamps”).

 

📌 Applications vary by state, usually through the state’s website or local social services office.

 

👉 SNAP benefits are limited to groceries and cannot be used for restaurant meals or non-food items.

 

 

Living in the U.S. as an immigrant becomes easier when you know your rights. From lowering hospital bills to building a strong credit score, these 7 legal rights can protect your finances and give you more security.