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🇺🇸 United States

I-864 Affidavit of Support

Financial Sponsorship for Immigration

Medium ~30 min SponsorshipAffidavitFinancial SupportGreen Card

/ What is this form?

The I-864 is a legally binding contract where the sponsor guarantees financial support for the immigrant at 125% of the federal poverty level. Required for most family-based and some employment-based green card applications. This obligation lasts until the immigrant becomes a US citizen, works 40 qualifying quarters, or dies.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Sponsors of family-based green card applicants
  • Some employment-based applicants whose family member filed the I-140

/ What you need before you start

Federal tax returns (most recent 3 years)
W-2s and 1099s
Employment verification letter
Proof of assets (if income is insufficient)
Filing fee: $0 (submitted with I-485 or NVC package)

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Understand the Obligation
The I-864 is a legally enforceable contract. You agree to support the immigrant at 125% of the federal poverty level. This obligation lasts until they become a citizen, work 40 qualifying quarters, or die.
2 Verify Income Requirements
Calculate 125% of the federal poverty guideline for your household size (sponsor + dependents + immigrants sponsored). Check the current year's poverty guidelines at HHS.
3 Complete the Form
Enter your personal information, employment details, income, household size, and the immigrants you are sponsoring. Sign and date the form.
4 Gather Tax Documents
Attach your most recent federal tax returns (all 3 years if available), W-2s, 1099s, and an employment verification letter.
5 Submit with Immigrant Application
Submit I-864 as part of the I-485 package (adjustment of status) or send to the NVC for consular processing. No separate filing fee for I-864.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
Household size Sponsor + all dependents + all immigrants being sponsored in this petition Include ALL people you are financially responsible for — underreporting inflates your apparent income ratio
Annual income vs poverty guidelines Your current annual income compared to 125% of the federal poverty level for your household size Using gross vs net income incorrectly — use gross income as shown on tax returns

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not meeting income requirements — can use a joint sponsor or assets to make up the shortfall
Not including all 3 years of tax returns
Not understanding it's a legally enforceable contract, even after divorce

/ Frequently asked questions

What if my income is too low?

Use a joint sponsor (separate I-864), add household member income (I-864A), or use assets worth 3–5x the income shortfall.

When does the obligation end?

When the immigrant becomes a US citizen, has worked 40 qualifying quarters of Social Security credit, leaves the US permanently, or dies.