When moving out of a rental property, one of the biggest concerns tenants have is: “Will I get my full security deposit back?” While landlords are legally allowed to deduct from your deposit in certain situations, they cannot simply keep it without justification. Understanding your rights can help you avoid unnecessary losses and protect your finances. This article covers what landlords can legally deduct , what’s considered normal wear and tear , and how to fight unfair deductions . 1. What Is a Security Deposit? A security deposit is a sum of money (often 1–2 months' rent) paid upfront to cover potential damages or unpaid rent. Most states require landlords to return the deposit within a certain number of days (usually 14–30 days) after the tenant moves out. Landlords must itemize any deductions in writing. If they fail to do so within the legal time frame, you may be entitled to a full refund—plus penalties . 2. What Landlords CAN Deduct For Your landlord has the ...
Each year, thousands of people from around the world apply for the United States Diversity Visa (DV) Program, also known as the Green Card Lottery. This unique immigration opportunity offers permanent residency to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S.
But what exactly is the Green Card Lottery? How does it work, who is eligible, and what can applicants expect during the process? In this guide, we'll break it all down clearly and accurately so you can determine if it’s the right path for you.
1. What Is the Diversity Visa Program?
The Diversity Visa Program was created by the Immigration Act of 1990 to encourage immigration from underrepresented countries. Every year, the U.S. government makes 55,000 green cards available through a random selection process.
The lottery is free to enter, and winners are chosen randomly by a computer system run by the U.S. Department of State. If selected, applicants can then proceed with applying for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status.
2. Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To enter the Green Card Lottery, you must meet two basic requirements:
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Country of Birth: You must be born in an eligible country. These are countries with low U.S. immigration rates in the previous five years.
Example of ineligible countries: Mexico, India, China, Philippines, Canada, and the U.K. (updated annually)
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Education or Work Experience: You must have either:
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A high school diploma or equivalent, OR
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Two years of work experience in an occupation that requires at least two years of training.
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Even if your country is ineligible, you may still qualify through a spouse’s eligibility or parental country of birth.
3. How to Apply
The application process is online and takes place once per year, usually in October or November. Here’s how it works:
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Visit the official website: dvprogram.state.gov
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Complete the Electronic Diversity Visa Entry Form (DS-5501)
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Submit a recent photo that meets specific U.S. visa requirements
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Keep your confirmation number—this is essential for checking your result
⚠️ Beware of scams! You never need to pay to enter the lottery. Always use the official government site.
4. Selection and Next Steps
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Results are released around May of the following year.
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If selected, you can apply for a green card either through consular processing or adjustment of status (if you're already in the U.S.).
Being selected does not guarantee a green card. You must still:
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Pass a background check
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Prove you are not inadmissible (e.g., no serious criminal history)
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Show that you won’t become a public charge
You must complete your application by September 30 of the following year, or your spot will expire.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting multiple entries (will disqualify you)
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Using a blurry or outdated photo
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Missing the application deadline
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Not saving the confirmation number
Be honest, accurate, and follow instructions exactly.
Final Thoughts
The Green Card Lottery offers a rare and potentially life-changing opportunity for immigrants worldwide. If you meet the eligibility criteria, applying is simple, free, and well worth your time. Just be sure to use the official website, follow the guidelines, and remain patient throughout the process.
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