Form I-864 Essentials: A Detailed Checklist for Affidavit of Support

Form I-864, also known as the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA, is required in certain immigration processes to show that the intending immigrant has adequate financial support and will not become a public charge in the United States. When submitting Form I-864, you typically need to include the following documents:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status: This could be a copy of your U.S. passport, birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
• Proof of Income: This includes documents such as recent tax returns (Form 1040), W-2s, 1099s, and/or pay stubs. If you are self-employed, you may need to provide profit and loss statements, as well as any other relevant business documents.
• Employment Letter: If you’re currently employed, a letter from your employer stating your position, salary, and the length of your employment can be helpful.
• Proof of Assets: This could include bank statements, real estate deeds, or other evidence of assets that can be readily converted into cash.
• Proof of Relationship: If the sponsor’s income alone does not meet the required threshold, a joint sponsor may be necessary. In such cases, the joint sponsor must provide similar documents proving their income and legal status.
• IRS Transcript: This document can be obtained from the IRS and serves as verification of the sponsor’s income.
• Form I-864A (if applicable): This form is used if the sponsor’s household income is not sufficient and they need to include the income of other household members.
• Proof of Divorce or Death of Previous Spouses (if applicable): If either the sponsor or the intending immigrant has been previously married, documents proving the termination of those marriages may be required.
• Any Additional Documentation Requested by USCIS: Depending on the circumstances, USCIS may request additional documentation to support the Form I-864.

It’s crucial to review the specific instructions provided by USCIS for the most up-to-date and comprehensive list of required documents to accompany Form I-864, as the requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the immigration category being pursued. Additionally, it’s advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or accredited representative for guidance specific to your situation.

How to Fill Out Affidavit of Support – Form I-864

Filling out Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, is a crucial step in the immigration process for many intending immigrants. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fill out Affidavit of Support:

• Download the Form: You can find Form I-864 on the official website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Make sure you download the latest version of the form.
• Read the Instructions: Before filling out the form, carefully read the instructions provided by USCIS. The instructions contain important information on how to properly complete each section of the form.
• Personal Information (Part 1): Provide your personal information in Part 1 of the form. This includes your full name, address, date of birth, and contact information.
• Information about the Immigrant You Are Sponsoring (Part 2): In Part 2, enter the name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) of the intending immigrant you are sponsoring.
• Information about the Sponsor (Part 3): Complete Part 3 with your personal information, including your relationship to the intending immigrant, your citizenship or immigration status, and your Social Security Number (SSN) or taxpayer identification number.
• Sponsor’s Household Size (Part 4): Calculate your household size according to the instructions provided in Part 4. Include yourself, your spouse, any unmarried children under 21, and any other dependents you have claimed on your most recent federal income tax return.
• Income and Employment (Part 5): Provide details about your income and employment in Part 5. This includes information about your current employer, your annual income, and any other sources of income you may have. Attach supporting documents such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and pay stubs.
• Additional Information (Part 6): If necessary, provide any additional information requested in Part 6. This may include details about your assets, liabilities, and other financial resources.
• Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature (Part 7): Review the information you have provided and sign and date the form in Part 7. By signing the form, you are certifying under penalty of perjury that the information provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
• Prepare Supporting Documents: Along with the completed Form I-864, gather all required supporting documents, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, pay stubs, and proof of assets.
• Submit the Form and Supporting Documents: Make copies of the completed form and all supporting documents for your records, and then submit the originals to USCIS as instructed in the form instructions or accompanying immigration application.
• Keep Copies for Your Records: Retain copies of all documents submitted for your records. These documents may be requested for future reference or during the immigration interview process.

It’s essential to ensure accuracy and completeness when filling out Form I-864, as any errors or omissions could delay the immigration process. If you have any questions or concerns about completing the form, consider seeking assistance from an immigration attorney or accredited representative.