OLGT 2024-59: Cross Programs: Citizens from Compacts of Free Association (COFA) Nations

The Compacts of Free Association (COFA) are a series of treaties between the United States, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI).

On March 9, 2024, President Biden signed The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 into law. This Act added Compacts of Free Association (COFA) citizens living in the U.S. to the list of noncitizens eligible to receive federal
public benefits, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance of Needy Families (TANF), as soon as they enter the U.S.

These individuals are not subject to any waiting period and are immediately eligible for SNAP and TAFDC benefits as long as they meet all other DTA program financial and non-financial eligibility requirements. EAEDC clients are never subject to a 5-year waiting period.