Thousands of immigrants with criminal records or terror watchlist flags have lost government benefits as the Trump administration tightens immigration enforcement through a controversial strategy that includes marking some migrants as “deceased” in federal databases.
At a Glance
- Over 6,300 immigrants with criminal or terrorist records who were paroled into the U.S. since 2023 have had benefits terminated
- The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reports 905 individuals received $276,000 in Medicaid benefits before parole termination
- The administration used the Social Security Administration’s “death master file” to cut migrants’ access to financial services
- Biden-era parole programs for citizens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela have been terminated
- White House calls the move part of fulfilling Trump’s campaign promise for mass deportations by encouraging “self-deportation”
Benefits Cut for Thousands Deemed Security Risks
The Trump administration has revoked federal benefits from thousands of immigrants identified as having criminal backgrounds or appearing on suspected terror watchlists. According to DOGE, led by Elon Musk, approximately 6,300 individuals with criminal records or terrorist ties were paroled into the United States since 2023 under previous humanitarian protection programs. Of these, 905 individuals reportedly received Medicaid benefits totaling $276,000, with some flagged on the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Center watchlist.
Beyond healthcare, the administration identified additional benefits that had been provided to these individuals: $42,000 in unemployment benefits to 41 individuals, $280,000 in federal student loans to 22 individuals, and $751,000 in net tax refunds distributed to over 400 individuals. These benefits were made possible through parole programs that allowed migrants from certain countries to enter the U.S. legally under humanitarian protections, making them eligible for work permits and Social Security numbers.
Controversial “Death Master File” Strategy
One of the more contentious tactics employed by the administration involves using the Social Security Administration’s “death master file” to classify living migrants as deceased, effectively cutting off their access to financial services and benefits. According to documents, over 6,300 migrants have been added to this file. The Social Security Administration has reclassified these individuals’ Social Security numbers into what’s called the Ineligible Master File to prevent improper federal benefits payments.
“President Trump promised mass deportations, and by removing the monetary incentive for illegal aliens to come and stay, we will encourage them to self-deport. He is delivering on his promise he made to the American people.” – White House spokesperson Elizabeth Huston.
Critics argue that these tactics could result in wrongful termination of benefits for U.S. citizens and lawful residents. Congressional Democrats have called for investigations into DOGE’s operations and data handling practices. Financial experts have also raised questions about the thoroughness of government identity verification systems and the accuracy of the figures being reported.
End of Biden-Era Parole Programs
The policy change follows a Department of Homeland Security notice formally ending the CHNV parole programs, which had allowed citizens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to request entry and parole into the United States. The DHS determined these programs “do not serve a significant public benefit” and are “inconsistent with the administration’s foreign policy goals.” The parole period for individuals under CHNV authority will end on April 24 unless exceptions are made, requiring those without a lawful basis to remain to depart voluntarily or face enforcement.
“DHS has determined that it is now appropriate and necessary to terminate the CHNV parole programs. These programs do not serve a significant public benefit, are not necessary to reduce levels of illegal immigration, did not sufficiently mitigate the domestic effects of illegal immigration, are not serving their intended purposes, and are inconsistent with the administration’s foreign policy goals.” – DHS notice.
These changes align with Executive Order 14165, “Securing Our Borders,” signed by President Trump, which directs the termination of parole programs deemed inconsistent with the administration’s immigration priorities. Immigration parole traditionally allows noncitizens temporary entry and potential work authorization in the U.S., but the administration has emphasized it will now enforce stricter controls on who receives these benefits.
Criticism and Support
Financial experts have criticized specific claims made by DOGE about benefit payments. One retired planner, Michael Ryan, pointed out that “$276,000 in Medicaid payments for 905 people breaks down to about $305 per person,” arguing this “wouldn’t cover a single ER visit” and calling the figure “suspiciously low.” Others have questioned whether the policy appropriately distinguishes between people genuinely posing security threats and those with minor infractions.
The administration’s approach represents a significant shift in how immigration policy intersects with federal benefits programs. By terminating benefits and revoking parole status, the Trump administration has signaled a stronger emphasis on enforcement-focused immigration control that prioritizes resources for citizens while encouraging those without legal status to self-deport. These measures reflect the broader immigration enforcement priorities outlined during Trump’s campaign.
