Being denied medical aid because of I-151

[MaxG]

Ok,

Here is some background. I came to this country when I was 4 years old. My parents were not too knowledgeable on immigration laws and as will become apparent neither am I. They gave me my I-151 near my 18th birthday. I called the INS (as it was known back then in 1990) and asked them what I needed to do. I was advised back then by the INS representative that I didn't need to do anything since I my fingerprints and picture were logged into the national data base when I got my state ID card. After a recent incident, which I'll explain later, I did some research and apparently this was changed in 1996.

My entire life of living in this country I have never had to pull out the I-151 except for once over 10 years ago when I needed financial assistance for unemployment when I was laid off. There wasn't a problem at that time.

I am currently in a very difficult situation. Currently I am in a low paying job without medical benefits. I was forced to go to the emergency room and now have to pay thousands of dollars in medical expenses. I am trying to obtain financial assistance with a government program known as MIA. I have supplied the hospital with current year tax information, an up to date drivers license, as well as social security, and IRA information, and the I-151.

Even though I have supplied them many items proving my identity they are denying me eligibility until I update my greencard. They say that because they don't have proof of my identity in relation to the greencard. I have looked at the process of renewing the card and believe I would prefer to apply for citizenship.

I have paid taxes for over 20 years. Taxes which pay for government programs like this and now when I find myself in need of them I am being denied. I was advised that permanent residency never expires, only the card does. They refuse to contact the USCIS stating that they could not call for everyone that came into their offices because they don't have the manpower.

My question is this... can they legally deny me services which I have been paying for for my whole life just because my greencard doesn't have my picture on it? Does anyone know if I have any legal recourse available to me?

Thanks for any help.

[austriacus]

Since several thousand dollars are at stake, I'd ask a lawyer in your situation. Obviously, you are eligible for benefits since your status does not expire, however you're in a situation where you can't prove your status with a valid document.