5 Easy Steps To Fill Form I-864

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Applying for a green card or immigrant visa can be a complex and time-consuming process. One crucial step in this journey is filling out Form I-864, also known as the Affidavit of Support. This form is a binding contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government, ensuring that the immigrant will not become a public charge. In this article, we will break down the process into 5 easy steps to help you fill out Form I-864 accurately and efficiently.

Understanding the Purpose of Form I-864

Before we dive into the steps, it's essential to understand the purpose of Form I-864. The U.S. government requires sponsors to demonstrate that they can financially support their immigrant relatives, ensuring they do not rely on government assistance programs. By signing Form I-864, the sponsor agrees to provide financial support for the immigrant's living expenses, including food, housing, clothing, and medical care.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility and Gather Required Documents

To fill out Form I-864, you'll need to determine if you're eligible to sponsor an immigrant. Typically, sponsors must be:

• U.S. citizens or national
• At least 18 years old
• A resident of the United States
• Able to meet the minimum income requirements

Gather the following documents:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or nationality (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate)
• Proof of income (tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs)
• Proof of employment (letter from employer or business documents)
• Proof of assets (bank statements, property deeds, or investment documents)

Step 2: Complete Part 1-4 of Form I-864

Part 1-4 of Form I-864 requires you to provide personal and biographical information, including:

• Name, address, and contact information
• Relationship to the immigrant
• Information about the immigrant (name, date of birth, and nationality)
• Sponsor's employment and income information

Fill out these sections carefully, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

Step 2.1: Sponsor's Household Size and Income

Calculate your household size and income, including:

• Number of people in your household
• Annual income from all sources
• Annual taxes owed

Step 2.2: Sponsor's Income and Employment

Provide detailed information about your employment, including:

• Employer's name and address
• Job title and dates of employment
• Annual income from employment

Step 3: Calculate Your Income and Assets

Calculate your total income and assets to determine if you meet the minimum income requirements. Use the following steps:

1. Calculate your total annual income from all sources.
2. Calculate your total assets, including cash, savings, and investments.
3. Determine if your income and assets meet the minimum requirements.

Minimum Income Requirements

The minimum income requirements vary based on household size and the number of immigrants being sponsored. Use the following table to determine the minimum income requirements:

Step 4: Complete Part 5-6 of Form I-864

Part 5-6 of Form I-864 requires you to:

• Sign and date the form
• Provide a statement regarding your understanding of the affidavit of support
• Provide information about the immigrant's education and employment

Fill out these sections carefully, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

Step 5: Submit Form I-864 and Supporting Documents

Once you've completed Form I-864, gather all supporting documents and submit them to the relevant authorities. Ensure that all documents are signed, dated, and notarized as required.

By following these 5 easy steps, you'll be able to fill out Form I-864 accurately and efficiently. Remember to carefully review and understand the form's requirements and obligations.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to comment below. We'd be happy to help.