Completing Form I-864A, also known as the Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member, is a crucial step in the process of sponsoring a family member or other relative for a green card. This form is used to demonstrate that the sponsor's household income is sufficient to support the immigrant(s) being sponsored, and that the sponsor is willing to provide financial support to the immigrant(s) for a certain period.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of completing Form I-864A in 5 easy steps. We will also provide you with information on the requirements, eligibility, and consequences of signing this form.
Understanding Form I-864A
Form I-864A is a contract between the sponsor and a household member who is signing the form to demonstrate that their combined income is sufficient to support the immigrant(s) being sponsored. By signing this form, the household member is agreeing to be jointly and severally liable with the sponsor for the support of the immigrant(s).
Who Needs to Complete Form I-864A?
Form I-864A is required for certain family-based immigrants who are seeking to enter the United States or adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident. The form is typically completed by the sponsor's household members who are contributing to the household income.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
To complete Form I-864A, the household member must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
- Being a household member of the sponsor
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having a Social Security number
- Being a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident
- Having an income that is counted towards the sponsor's household income
What is Considered Household Income?
Household income includes the income of the sponsor, the household member, and any other household members who are contributing to the household income. This includes income from employment, self-employment, and other sources.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To complete Form I-864A, the household member will need to gather certain documents, including:
- Proof of identity (such as a driver's license or passport)
- Proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card)
- Proof of income (such as tax returns or pay stubs)
- Proof of household membership (such as a lease or utility bill)
What if I Don't Have All the Required Documents?
If the household member is unable to obtain all the required documents, they may be able to provide alternative documentation or explanations. However, it is recommended that the household member provides as much documentation as possible to support their eligibility.
Step 3: Complete Form I-864A
To complete Form I-864A, the household member will need to provide their personal and contact information, as well as information about their income and household membership. The form will also require the household member to sign and date it.
What if I Make a Mistake on the Form?
If the household member makes a mistake on the form, they may be able to correct it and resubmit it. However, it is recommended that the household member carefully reviews the form before submitting it to avoid any errors.
Step 4: Sign and Date the Form
Once the household member has completed the form, they will need to sign and date it. By signing the form, the household member is agreeing to be jointly and severally liable with the sponsor for the support of the immigrant(s).
What are the Consequences of Signing the Form?
By signing Form I-864A, the household member is agreeing to provide financial support to the immigrant(s) for a certain period. If the household member fails to provide this support, they may be liable for any public benefits that the immigrant(s) receive.
Step 5: Submit the Form
Once the household member has completed and signed the form, they will need to submit it to the sponsor. The sponsor will then submit the form as part of their petition for the immigrant(s).
What Happens After Submitting the Form?
After submitting the form, the household member may be required to provide additional documentation or information. The form will be reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the immigrant's petition.
We hope this article has helped you understand the process of completing Form I-864A. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with completing Form I-864A in the comments section below. Have you completed this form before? What were some of the challenges you faced? Share your story and help others who may be going through the same process.
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What is the purpose of Form I-864A?
+Form I-864A is a contract between the sponsor and a household member who is signing the form to demonstrate that their combined income is sufficient to support the immigrant(s) being sponsored.
Who is eligible to complete Form I-864A?
+The household member must be at least 18 years old, have a Social Security number, and be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident.
What are the consequences of signing Form I-864A?
+By signing Form I-864A, the household member is agreeing to provide financial support to the immigrant(s) for a certain period. If the household member fails to provide this support, they may be liable for any public benefits that the immigrant(s) receive.