I 864A Affidavit Of Support Template

I 864A Affidavit Of Support Template

The I-864A Affidavit of Support is a form used to establish a financial commitment between a sponsor and a household member of an intending immigrant. This document ensures that the household member agrees to support the immigrant financially, helping to meet the necessary income requirements set by U.S. immigration law. Understanding this form is crucial for those involved in the immigration process, so take the first step by filling out the form below.

Table of Contents

The I-864A Affidavit of Support form plays a crucial role in the U.S. immigration process, particularly for individuals seeking to bring family members into the country. This form serves as a contract between a sponsor and a household member, outlining the financial responsibilities that the sponsor agrees to assume for the intending immigrant. It is essential for ensuring that the sponsored individuals do not become a public charge. The form requires detailed information about the household member, including their relationship to the sponsor, employment status, and financial history. It also necessitates the disclosure of income, assets, and tax information for the past three years. By signing the I-864A, the household member commits to supporting the sponsor's financial obligations, which may include joint liability for any debts incurred under the affidavit. This form not only reinforces the sponsor's promise to provide adequate support but also establishes a legal framework that underscores the importance of financial stability in the immigration process. Understanding the I-864A is vital for anyone involved in sponsoring an immigrant, as it lays the groundwork for a successful application and the well-being of the individuals being supported.

I 864A Affidavit Of Support Sample

Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member

USCIS

Department of Homeland Security

Form I-864A

OMB No. 1615-0075

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Expires 12/31/2023

For Government Use Only

This Form I-864A relates to a household member who:

IS the intending immigrant

IS NOT the

Reviewed By:

 

intending

Location:

Date (mm/dd/yyyy):

immigrant

To be completed by an

Select this box if

 

Attorney State Bar Number

 

 

Attorney or Accredited Representative

 

Form G-28 or

 

(if applicable)

 

 

USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

 

attorney or accredited

 

 

 

 

G-28I is attached.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

representative (if any).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

START HERE - Type or print in black ink.

Part 1. Information About You (the Household Member)

Physical Address

4.a. Street Number

and Name

Full Name

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

Mailing Address

(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)

2.a. In Care Of Name

4.b. Apt. 4.c. City or Town 4.d. State

4.f. Province

4.g. Postal Code

4.h. Country

Ste. Flr.

4.e. ZIP Code

2.b. Street Number

and Name

Other Information

2.c. Apt. 2.d. City or Town 2.e. State

2.g. Province

2.h. Postal Code

2.i. Country

Ste. Flr.

2.f. ZIP Code

5.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

Place of Birth 6.a. City or Town

6.b. State or Province

6.c. Country

3.Is your current mailing address the same as your physical

address?

Yes

No

 

If you answered "No" to Item Number 3., provide your physical address.

7.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

8.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 1 of 8

Part 2. Your (the Household Member's) Relationship to the Sponsor

Select Item Number 1.a., 1.b., or 1.c.

1.a.

I am the intending immigrant and also the sponsor's

 

spouse.

1.b.

I am the intending immigrant and also a member of

 

the sponsor's household.

1.c.

I am not the intending immigrant. I am the sponsor's

 

household member. I am related to the sponsor as

 

his/her:

 

 

Spouse

 

 

Son or Daughter (at least 18 years of age)

 

 

Parent

 

 

Brother or Sister

 

 

Other Dependent (Specify)

 

 

 

Part 3. Your (the Household Member's) Employment and Income

I am currently:

1. Employed as a/an

2.Name of Employer Number 1

3.Name of Employer Number 2 (if applicable)

4. Self employed as a/an

5. Retired from (Company Name)

Since (mm/dd/yyyy)

6. Unemployed since (mm/dd/yyyy)

7.My current individual annual income is:

$

Part 4. Your (the Household Member's) Federal Income Tax Information and Assets

1.a. Have you filed a Federal income tax return for each of the

three most recent tax years?

Yes

No

 

 

NOTE: You MUST attach a photocopy or transcript of

 

your Federal income tax return for only the most recent

 

tax year.

1.b.

(Optional) I have attached photocopies or transcripts

 

of my Federal income tax returns for my second and

 

third most recent tax years.

My total income (adjusted gross income on IRS Form 1040EZ) as reported on my Federal income tax returns for the most recent three years was:

 

 

Tax Year

 

Total Income

2.a.

Most Recent

 

$

 

2.b.

2nd Most Recent

 

$

 

 

 

2.c.

3rd Most Recent

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My assets (complete only if necessary).

3.a. Enter the balance of all cash, savings, and checking

accounts.$

3.b. Enter the net cash value of real-estate holdings. (Net value means assessed value minus mortgage debt.)

$

3.c. Enter the cash value of all stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, and other assets not listed on Item Numbers 3.a.

or 3.b.

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.d. Add together Item Numbers 3.a., 3.b., and 3.c. and enter

the number here.

$

 

Part 5. Sponsor's Promise, Statement, Contact

Information, Declaration, Certification, and

Signature

NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-864A Instructions before completing this part.

I, THE SPONSOR,

,

(Print Name)

in consideration of the household member's promise to support the following intending immigrants and to be jointly and severally liable for any obligations I incur under the affidavit of support, promise to complete and file an affidavit of support on behalf of the following named intending immigrants.

(Indicate Number)

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 2 of 8

Part 5. Sponsor's Promise, Statement, Contact

Information, Declaration, Certification, and

Signature (continued)

Intending Immigrant Number 1

Name

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

2. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

3.Alien Registration Number (A-Number, if any)

A-

4.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

5.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

Intending Immigrant Number 2

Name

6.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

6.b. Given Name

(First Name)

6.c. Middle Name

7. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

8.Alien Registration Number (A-Number, if any)

A-

9.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

10.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

Intending Immigrant Number 3

Name

11.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

11.b. Given Name

(First Name)

11.c. Middle Name

12. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

13.Alien Registration Number (A-Number, if any)

A-

14.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

15.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

Intending Immigrant Number 4

Name

16.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

16.b. Given Name

(First Name)

16.c. Middle Name

17. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

18.Alien Registration Number (A-Number, if any)

A-

19.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

20.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

Intending Immigrant Number 5

Name

21.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

21.b. Given Name

(First Name)

21.c. Middle Name

22. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

23.Alien Registration Number (A-Number, if any)

A-

24.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

25.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

Sponsor's Statement

NOTE: Select the box for either Item Number 26.a. or 26.b. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 27.

26.a. I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this contract and my answer to every question.

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 3 of 8

Part 5. Sponsor's Promise, Statement, Contact

Information, Declaration, Certification, and

Signature (continued)

26.b. The interpreter named in Part 7. read to me every question and instruction on this contract and my answer to every question in

,

 

a language in which I am fluent, and I understood

 

everything.

27.

At my request, the preparer named in Part 8.,

,

prepared this contract for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

Sponsor's Contact Information

28.Sponsor's Daytime Telephone Number

29.Sponsor's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

30.Sponsor's Email Address (if any)

Sponsor's Declaration and Certification

Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the U.S. Department of State (DOS) may require that I submit original documents to USCIS or DOS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any and all of my records that USCIS or DOS may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit that I seek.

I furthermore authorize release of information contained in this contract, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS or DOS records, to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration law.

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in my contract and any document submitted with it were provided or authorized by me, that I reviewed and understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my contract and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

Sponsor's Signature

31.a. Sponsor's Signature

31.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

NOTE TO ALL SPONSORS: If you do not completely fill out this contract or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS may deny your contract.

Part 6. Your (the Household Member's) Promise,

Statement, Contact Information, Declaration,

Certification, and Signature

NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-864A Instructions before completing this part.

I, THE HOUSEHOLD MEMBER,

,

(Print Name)

in consideration of the sponsor's promise to complete and file an affidavit of support on behalf of the above named intending immigrants.

(Print number of intending immigrants noted in Part 5.

Sponsor's Promise, Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, Certification and Signature.)

A.Promise to provide any and all financial support necessary to assist the sponsor in maintaining the sponsored immigrants at or above the minimum income provided for in the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA) section 213A(a)(1)(A) (not less than 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) during the period in which the affidavit of support is enforceable;

B.Agree to be jointly and severally liable for payment of any and all obligations owed by the sponsor under the affidavit of support to the sponsored immigrants, to any agency of the Federal Government, to any agency of a state or local government, or to any other private entity that provides means-tested public benefits;

C.Certify under penalty under the laws of the United States that the Federal income tax returns submitted in support of the contract are true copies or unaltered tax transcripts filed with the Internal Revenue Service;

D.Consideration where the household member is also the sponsored immigrant: I understand that if I am the sponsored immigrant and a member of the sponsor's household that this promise relates only to my promise to be jointly and severally liable for any obligation owed by the sponsor under the affidavit of support to any of my dependents, to any agency of the Federal Government, to any agency of a state or local government, or to any other private entity that provides means-tested public benefits and to provide any and all financial support necessary to assist the sponsor in maintaining any of my dependents at or above the minimum income provided for in INA section 213A(a) (1)(A) (not less than 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline) during the period which the affidavit of support is enforceable.

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 4 of 8

Part 6. Your (the Household Member's) Promise,

Statement, Contact Information, Declaration,

Certification, and Signature (continued)

E.I understand that, if I am related to the sponsored immigrant or the sponsor by marriage, the termination of the marriage (by divorce, dissolution, annulment, or other legal process) will not relieve me of my obligations under this Form I-864A.

F.I authorize the Social Security Administration to release information about me in its records to the Department of State and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Your (the Household Member's) Statement

NOTE: Select the box for either Item Number 1.a. or 1.b. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.

1.a.

I can read and understand English, and I have read

 

and understand every question and instruction on this

 

contract and my answer to every question.

1.b.

The interpreter named in Part 7. read to me every

 

question and instruction on this contract and my

 

answer to every question in

 

 

,

 

a language in which I am fluent, and I understood

 

 

everything.

2.

At my request, the preparer named in Part 8.,

 

 

,

 

prepared this contract for me based only upon

 

 

information I provided or authorized.

Your (the Household Member's) Contact Information

3.Your (the Household Member's) Daytime Telephone Number

4.Your (the Household Member's) Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

5.Your (the Household Member's) Email Address (if any)

Your (the Household Member's) Declaration and Certification

Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS or DOS may require that I submit original documents to USCIS or DOS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any and all of my records that USCIS or DOS may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit that I seek.

I furthermore authorize release of information contained in this contract, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS or DOS records, to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration law.

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in my contract and any document submitted with it were provided or authorized by me, that I reviewed and understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my contract and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

Your (the Household Member's) Signature

6.a. Your (the Household Member's) Printed Name

6.b. Your (the Household Member's) Signature

6.c. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

NOTE TO ALL HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS: If you do not completely fill out this contract or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS may deny your contract.

Part 7. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

Provide the following information about the interpreter.

Interpreter's Full Name

1.a. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)

2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 5 of 8

Part 7. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature (continued)

Interpreter's Mailing Address

Part 8. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Contract, if Other Than the Sponsor or Household Member

Provide the following information about the preparer.

3.a. Street Number

and Name

3.b. Apt. 3.c. City or Town 3.d. State

3.f. Province

3.g. Postal Code

3.h. Country

Ste. Flr.

3.e. ZIP Code

Preparer's Full Name

1.a. Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Preparer's Given Name (First Name)

2.Preparer's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Preparer's Mailing Address

3.a. Street Number

and Name

Interpreter's Contact Information

4.Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

6.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)

Interpreter's Certification

3.b. Apt. 3.c. City or Town 3.d. State

3.f. Province

3.g. Postal Code

3.h. Country

Ste. Flr.

3.e. ZIP Code

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:

 

I am fluent in English and

 

,

which is the same language specified in Part 5., Item

 

Number 26.b. or Part 6., Item Number 1.b., and I have read

 

to this sponsor or household member in the identified language

 

every question and instruction on this contract and his or her

 

answer to every question. The sponsor or household member

 

informed me that he or she understands every instruction,

 

question, and answer on the contract, including the Sponsor's

 

or Household Member's Declaration and Certification, and

 

has verified the accuracy of every answer.

 

Interpreter's Signature

7.a. Interpreter's Signature

7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Preparer's Contact Information

4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Preparer's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

6.Preparer's Email Address (if any)

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 6 of 8

Part 8. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Contract, if Other Than the Sponsor or Household Member

(continued)

Preparer's Statement

7.a.

7.b.

I am not an attorney or accredited representative but have prepared this contract on behalf of the sponsor and household member and with the sponsor's or household member's consent.

I am an attorney or accredited representative and my representation of the sponsor and household member in this case extends does not extend beyond

the preparation of this contract.

NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative, you may be obliged to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, or G-28I, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney In Matters Outside the Geographical Confines of the United States, with this contract.

Preparer's Certification

By my signature, I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I prepared this contract at the request of the sponsor and household member. The sponsor and household member then reviewed this completed contract and informed me that he or she understands all of the information contained in, and submitted with, his or her contract, including the Sponsor's or Household Member's Declaration and Certification, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct. I completed this contract based only on information that the sponsor and household member provided to me or authorized me to obtain or use.

Preparer's Signature

8.a. Preparer's Signature

8.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 7 of 8

Part 9. Additional Information

If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this contract, use the space below. If you need more space than what is provided, you may make copies of this page to complete and file with this contract or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.

1.a. Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Given Name (First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

2.A-Number (if any)

A-

3.a. Page Number 3.b. Part Number 3.c. Item Number

3.d.

4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number 4.c. Item Number

4.d.

5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number

5.d.

6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number

6.d.

7.a. Page Number 7.b. Part Number 7.c. Item Number

7.d.

Form I-864A 12/08/21

Page 8 of 8

Document Attributes

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-864A form is used to establish financial support for intending immigrants by a household member of the sponsor.
Eligibility Only household members who are related to the sponsor or the intending immigrant can complete this form.
Income Requirement The household member must promise to provide financial support to ensure the sponsored immigrant's income is at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Filing Deadline The current version of the form expires on December 31, 2023, and must be submitted before this date.
Legal Obligations Household members are jointly liable for any financial obligations incurred under the affidavit of support.
Required Documentation Photocopies or transcripts of the household member's federal income tax returns for the most recent tax year must be attached.
Governing Laws This form is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically section 213A(a)(1)(A).

I 864A Affidavit Of Support: Usage Instruction

Completing the I-864A Affidavit of Support form is an important step in the immigration process. This form must be filled out accurately to ensure that all necessary information is provided. Once the form is completed, it should be submitted along with any required documents to the appropriate government agency.

  1. Start the Form: Use black ink to type or print your responses clearly. Begin with Part 1.
  2. Provide Your Information: In Part 1, fill in your full name, physical address, mailing address (if different), date of birth, place of birth, U.S. Social Security Number, and USCIS Online Account Number (if applicable).
  3. Relationship to the Sponsor: In Part 2, select the appropriate relationship to the sponsor from the options provided. Specify how you are related to the sponsor.
  4. Employment and Income: In Part 3, indicate your employment status. Provide details about your current job, self-employment, or retirement. Include your annual income.
  5. Federal Income Tax Information: In Part 4, answer whether you have filed a federal income tax return for the last three years. Attach copies of your most recent tax return and report your total income for the last three years.
  6. Assets: If necessary, list your assets, including cash, savings, real estate, stocks, and other holdings. Total these assets and enter the amount.
  7. Complete Sponsor's Information: In Part 5, the sponsor must provide their name, contact information, and sign the declaration. They should also list the intending immigrants they are sponsoring.
  8. Household Member's Information: In Part 6, the household member must sign and provide their contact information. They should also declare their understanding of the obligations involved.
  9. Interpreter's Information: If applicable, provide the interpreter's contact information in Part 7. This step is necessary if the household member required assistance in understanding the form.
  10. Review and Submit: Double-check all information for accuracy. Ensure that all required documents are attached before submitting the form.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the purpose of Form I-864A?

    Form I-864A, Affidavit of Support, is used to demonstrate that a household member of a sponsor can contribute financially to support an intending immigrant. This form ensures that the immigrant will not become a public charge and helps establish the financial capability of the household to support the immigrant.

  2. Who needs to complete Form I-864A?

    The form must be completed by a household member of the sponsor who is also financially supporting the intending immigrant. This includes spouses, children over 18, parents, or other relatives who reside in the same household and will contribute to the financial support of the immigrant.

  3. What information is required on Form I-864A?

    Form I-864A requires personal information such as:

    • Full name
    • Physical and mailing addresses
    • Date and place of birth
    • Employment details and income
    • Federal income tax information for the past three years

    Additionally, the household member must declare their relationship to the sponsor and agree to financially support the intending immigrant.

  4. What are the income requirements for Form I-864A?

    The household member must demonstrate that their income, when combined with the sponsor's income, meets at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the household size. This ensures that the immigrant will have adequate financial support and will not rely on government assistance.

  5. What happens if the information on Form I-864A is incomplete or incorrect?

    If the form is not fully completed or contains inaccuracies, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may deny the application. It is crucial to provide accurate information and submit all required documents to avoid delays or denials in the immigration process.

  6. Can a household member withdraw their support after submitting Form I-864A?

    Once Form I-864A is submitted, the household member is legally obligated to support the immigrant for the duration of the affidavit’s enforceability. Withdrawal of support is not permitted, even if the relationship with the sponsor changes, such as through divorce.

Common mistakes

Completing the I-864A Affidavit of Support form can be a daunting task, and many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or denials. One frequent error occurs when applicants fail to provide accurate personal information. This includes missing or incorrect names, addresses, or Social Security numbers. Such inaccuracies can create confusion and may require additional follow-up with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), prolonging the process unnecessarily.

Another mistake involves the financial information section. Applicants often misreport their income or fail to include necessary documentation. For instance, not attaching the required tax returns or transcripts for the last three years can lead to complications. It is essential to ensure that all financial details are complete and that the appropriate documents are submitted. This step is crucial, as USCIS relies on this information to assess the financial capability of the household member.

Furthermore, individuals sometimes overlook the importance of selecting the correct relationship to the sponsor. Misidentifying oneself as the intending immigrant or incorrectly stating the nature of the relationship can have significant implications. It is vital to carefully review the options provided in the form and select the one that accurately reflects the relationship to the sponsor.

Finally, many applicants neglect to sign and date the form appropriately. This may seem like a minor detail, but without a signature, the application is considered incomplete. Both the household member and the sponsor must ensure that their signatures are present and that the dates correspond to when the form was filled out. This attention to detail can prevent unnecessary delays in processing the application.

Documents used along the form

The I-864A Affidavit of Support form is an important document used in the immigration process. When completing this form, there are several other documents that may also be required to support the application. Below is a list of five commonly used forms and documents that often accompany the I-864A.

  • Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): This form is completed by the primary sponsor and demonstrates their financial ability to support the intending immigrant. It outlines the sponsor's income, assets, and obligations.
  • Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): This form is filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a qualifying relationship with the intending immigrant. It is a key document in the immigration process.
  • Federal Tax Returns: Copies of the sponsor's federal tax returns for the past three years may be required. These documents help verify the sponsor's income and financial stability.
  • Proof of Income: This may include pay stubs, employment letters, or other documentation that shows the sponsor's current income. It supports the claim of financial capability to support the immigrant.
  • Form I-864P (Poverty Guidelines): This document provides the current poverty guidelines used to determine the minimum income required for sponsorship. It helps ensure that the sponsor meets the financial requirements.

Gathering these documents is crucial for a successful application process. Each document plays a significant role in demonstrating financial responsibility and eligibility for immigration benefits. Make sure to review each requirement carefully to ensure all necessary documentation is included.

Similar forms

  • Form I-864: This is the primary Affidavit of Support form used by sponsors to demonstrate their ability to financially support an immigrant. Like Form I-864A, it requires financial information and commitments from the sponsor. However, Form I-864 is completed by the sponsor alone, while Form I-864A is for household members who are also contributing to the support.
  • Form I-134: This is a Declaration of Financial Support that serves a similar purpose in showing financial ability to support an immigrant. It is often used for non-immigrant visa applicants. Both forms require proof of income and assets, but Form I-134 is less formal and does not carry the same legal obligations as the I-864 series.
  • Form I-751: This is a Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. It includes financial information to show that the marriage is genuine and that the couple can support themselves. Similar to Form I-864A, it requires documentation of income, but it focuses more on the marital relationship rather than household support.
  • Form I-130: This is a Petition for Alien Relative, which establishes a relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and an immigrant. While it does not directly address financial support, it often accompanies Form I-864 or I-864A to show the intent to support the immigrant financially.
  • Form I-864EZ: This is a simplified version of the Affidavit of Support for sponsors who meet specific criteria. Like Form I-864A, it is used to show financial ability but is less complex and requires fewer documents, making it easier for eligible sponsors.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-864A Affidavit of Support form, it is crucial to adhere to certain guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly. Below is a list of things you should and should not do.

  • Do use black ink to fill out the form.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information about yourself and your relationship to the sponsor.
  • Do attach required documents, such as your most recent Federal income tax return.
  • Do ensure that your signature matches the name printed on the form.
  • Do review the entire form for errors before submission.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; if a question does not apply, indicate this clearly.
  • Don't submit photocopies of documents that are not requested; only submit what is required.
  • Don't use white-out or any correction fluid on the form; corrections should be made by crossing out and initialing.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form, as missing signatures can lead to delays.

Misconceptions

Understanding the I-864A Affidavit of Support form can be challenging, and several misconceptions often arise. Here are eight common myths, along with clarifications to help you navigate this important document.

  • Myth 1: The I-864A is only for the primary sponsor.
  • Many believe that only the primary sponsor needs to fill out this form. In reality, the I-864A is specifically for household members who will contribute to the financial support of the intending immigrant.

  • Myth 2: Household members are not legally responsible for the immigrant's support.
  • This is not true. By signing the I-864A, household members agree to be jointly responsible for supporting the immigrant, which means they can be held accountable for financial obligations.

  • Myth 3: You can submit the I-864A without providing income information.
  • In fact, the I-864A requires detailed income and employment information. This is crucial for determining whether the household meets the financial requirements to support the immigrant.

  • Myth 4: Only U.S. citizens can be household members.
  • Household members can be lawful permanent residents or U.S. citizens. As long as they live in the same household as the sponsor, they can complete the I-864A.

  • Myth 5: The I-864A is optional for household members.
  • This is a misconception. If a household member's income is being used to meet the financial requirements, their completion of the I-864A is mandatory.

  • Myth 6: You can submit the I-864A without previous tax returns.
  • Not quite. The form requires that household members provide their federal income tax returns for the most recent tax year to demonstrate financial stability.

  • Myth 7: The obligations under the I-864A end if the marriage ends.
  • Contrary to this belief, if a household member is also the spouse of the sponsor, their obligations do not automatically end with a divorce or separation.

  • Myth 8: You don’t need to worry about the I-864A if the immigrant has a job.
  • This is misleading. While the immigrant's employment may help, the I-864A ensures that the household member is also committed to providing financial support, regardless of the immigrant's job status.

Being informed about these misconceptions can help you navigate the I-864A process more effectively. Understanding your responsibilities and the requirements can make a significant difference in the immigration journey.

Key takeaways

Filling out the I-864A Affidavit of Support form is an important step in the immigration process. Here are key takeaways to consider:

  • Understand Your Role: The form is intended for household members who will support the intending immigrant. Clearly identify your relationship to the sponsor, whether you are a spouse, child, or another dependent.
  • Provide Accurate Financial Information: Report your employment status and income accurately. Attach copies of your federal income tax returns for the most recent year, as well as any additional years if applicable.
  • Be Aware of Your Obligations: By signing the form, you agree to provide financial support to the sponsored immigrant and may be held liable for any debts incurred under the affidavit of support.
  • Complete All Sections: Ensure every section of the form is filled out completely. Missing information or required documents can lead to delays or denial of the application.