Affidavit of Support (I-864)

Who qualifies

Petitioner (or joint sponsor) at or above 125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.

The step-by-step roadmap

1. 1

   Determine household size

   Count yourself, dependents, the immigrants you sponsor and prior sponsored immigrants.

   Watch out: Mistakes change the income requirement.

   Common rejection reason: Wrong household size.
2. 2

   Check 125% poverty guideline

   Compare your income with the current HHS poverty guidelines.

   Watch out: Use the latest guideline chart.

   Common rejection reason: Income below requirement.
3. 3

   Gather tax and income proof

   Most recent IRS transcript, W-2s/1099s, pay stubs, employer letter.

   Watch out: Transcripts are preferred.

   Common rejection reason: Missing tax evidence.
4. 4

   Add joint sponsor or assets if needed

   A joint sponsor files a separate I-864; assets can supplement income.

   Watch out: Joint sponsor must meet requirements alone.

   Common rejection reason: Weak joint sponsor.
5. 5

   Sign and file with the case

   Sign originals and submit with the I-485 or to NVC.

   Watch out: Unsigned forms are rejected.

   Common rejection reason: Missing signature.

Documents you'll need

• Form I-864

  Affidavit of Support.

• IRS tax transcript

  Most recent tax year.

• W-2s / 1099s

  Most recent year.

• Pay stubs and employer letter

  Last 6 months recommended.

• Sponsor status proof

  U.S. passport, birth certificate or green card.

• Joint sponsor I-864 (if needed)

  Separate form and evidence.