Thousands of immigrants in New York could now be eligible to receive at least $10,000—and for some, even more. But there is a catch: the deadline to apply is August 15, 2025.
If you or someone you know was wrongfully detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) between 1997 and 2012 while in New York City custody, there might be money on the table for you. Here is what you need to know.
Which New York neighborhoods have the most affected immigrants?
Brooklyn and Queens lead the list. If you lived in either of these boroughs during the time of your arrest by New York City authorities between April 1, 1997, and December 21, 2012, you may qualify for the settlement.
- Brooklyn has the highest number of affected cases, with 5,619 immigrants who could be eligible for compensation.
- Queens follows closely with 5,345 potential cases.
- Other areas include the Bronx (4,120), Manhattan (3,623), and Staten Island (157).
These figures are based on where people were living when they were detained. According to attorney Debbie Greenberger, one of the lead counsels on the case, “We evaluated the district in which they lived when they were detained by the City of New York under this ICE detainer.”
What is the ICE settlement and how did it happen?
The $92.5 million settlement comes from a class-action lawsuit called Onadia v. New York City. This case involved immigrants who were detained in city jails because of ICE requests, even though those holds were not legally valid.
Judge Mitchell J. Danzinger approved the agreement, and the law firm handling the case—Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward and Maazel LLP—is now working to find those who are eligible.
According to Greenberger, “We have a new opportunity to reach as many eligible people as possible… We urge community organizations, advocates, and media outlets to spread the word so that no one who qualifies is left without access.”
How much money can you get?
If you are eligible, you may receive at least $10,000. But depending on your situation, the amount could be even higher.
- The amount depends on the length and circumstances of your detention.
- You do not need to be in the United States now to apply.
- Even if you have returned to your home country, you may still qualify.
This is a serious opportunity—especially if you are facing financial challenges or were affected emotionally or professionally by what happened years ago.
Is it safe to apply?
Yes, it is safe. Greenberger reassures everyone that this is a confidential process. Your information will not be shared with ICE or any other government agency.
- “Under the terms of the settlement, people’s information is confidential,” Greenberger said.
- “We are not working with the federal government. They are not part of this case.”
So if fear is holding you back, do not let it. This is about justice—and getting what you deserve after years of silence.
How can you apply for compensation?
The process is simple. If you believe you or someone you know qualifies, here is what you need to do:
- Go to NYCICEsettlement.com.
- Fill out the claim form.
- Submit your application before August 15, 2025.
This is a chance to get compensation for what happened in the past. The law firm is actively encouraging people to spread the word and help others check if they qualify.
