Updated Tax FAQ
This updated FAQ includes discussion of the First-Year Choice Tax Rule, which could be used by eligible Afghans as an exception to the residency requirement for certain tax benefits, as well as the related need to request an extension for filing one’s 2021 taxes. Under this rule, an Afghan parolee could be eligible for the third Economic Impact Payment (stimulus payment), as well as the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. The rule is not without conditions, however, and those who pursue this exception but then later decide to leave the United States in 2022 will likely be liable to the IRS for excess refunds, which could impact future interactions with U.S. immigration authorities. Additionally, the deadline to file 2021 taxes or seek an extension is quickly approaching (April 18). Please continue to note that, because each individual’s/family’s situation involves unique circumstances, this remains only general guidance, and it is highly advisable for all Afghans parolees to consult with a trusted and qualified tax advisor when preparing tax filings.
Available Soon on OneDrive – 3/25/2022 Updates on Missing EADs/SS Cards
On Friday 3/25, IOM responded to USCCB’s most recent list of requests for EAD/SS card updates. USCCB is working to get this information updated in OneDrive (“Documents for EAD-SS Cards”) ASAP. Please check your EAD/SS Card OneDrive folder on Monday 3/28 for any new updates.
IMPORTANT - Updated Guidance on APA Documentation Issues
PRM has provided substantial updated guidance for resolving APA documentation issues with missing, incorrect, or misdelivered I-94s, EADs, and Social Security cards. Additional information and next steps can be found in the Documentation Guide and Next Steps resource on MRSConnect. Changes include:
- If you have not yet received an EAD for a Phase 1 APA arrival, affiliates should report non-delivery/non-reciept of the EAD to USCIS and should request a replacement EAD by mail ASAP using the I-765 form.
- CBP has provided a new email to support I-94 resolution
- Information on the different documentation processes for Phase I (arrivals on or before February 19, 2022) and Phase II (arrivals on or after February 20, 2022)
Reminder: Email your Pre-Arrival Case Manager about Afghan Clients Ineligible for APA
If you receive an Afghan arrival who is not eligible for Afghan Placement & Assistance, please complete the APA Reconciliation Document (must be logged into MRSConnect to see) and send it to your Pre-Arrival Case Manager within 10 days of the ineligible client’s arrival. Typical reasons for ineligibility include a client already having US Citizenship or Legal Permanent Residency (green card), or infants born on US soil (who have US citizenship by birth).
Next APA Housing Survey due Friday, April 8, USCCB Office Hours for Housing Survey Qs
If you have resettled APA clients, please complete the April tab of your “APA Monthly Housing Survey” in OneDrive by Friday, April 8. If your team has questions about how to complete the APA monthly housing survey, please send questions to sevans@usccb.org or attend one of USCCB’s two “office hours” sessions, where USCCB staff will explain how to complete the housing survey. You do not need to RSVP to the office hours – simply use the links below. We will cover the same information in each session, so you only need to attend one.
USCCB/MRS Staff Office Hours – How to Complete the Monthly APA Housing Survey
Second PC Supplemental
Last week, USCCB received a letter outlining ORR’s intent to provide our network with a second supplemental allocation through the Preferred Communities program. This funding will be allocated to support 1) moving APA clients from temporary into permanent housing, 2) Immigration related legal assistance 3) Additional Intensive Case Management for medically fragile cases. USCCB will reach out to the APA network in the coming weeks to detail funding levels and allowable activities.
No Travel Loans for Phase II Arrivals
PRM recently updated USCCB that Phase II APA arrivals will not have travel loans. This is different than what was previously shared. Afghans that travel as refugees or SIVs through the R&P program will continue to have travel loans.
Phase II APA Capacity
Last month, USCCB submitted a consolidated placement plan (CPP) to PRM with proposed APA Phase II capacity of 2,273 individuals. Please note PRM has not yet approved APA Phase II capacity. Since PRM anticipates total Phase II arrivals to be between 3,500-5,000 individuals, we do anticipate that PRM will award USCCB less capacity than what was proposed. USCCB will inform affiliates once Phase II capacity has been awarded and will work with you on capacity adjustments, if necessary.
