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The I-864A Affidavit of Support form serves a crucial role in the immigration process for household members who are financially supporting an intending immigrant. This form establishes a contract between the sponsor and household member, where both parties agree to be financially responsible for the immigrant being sponsored. Essentially, the I-864A is designed to ensure that the immigrant will not become dependent on government assistance. The form requires detailed information about the household member’s identity, relationship to the sponsor, employment status, income, and assets. It also mandates that the household member pledges to support the sponsored immigrant financially, ensuring that the total income meets a specified threshold—at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Furthermore, the form outlines various obligations and responsibilities, emphasizing that both the sponsor and the household member could be held liable for financial commitments arising from the support of the immigrant. This document is pivotal to demonstrating that the immigrant's basic needs will be met and is a necessary component of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements for many immigration processes.

I 864A Affidavit Of Support Example

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

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-864A Affidavit of Support form is designed to show that a household member can provide financial support to an intending immigrant, ensuring that they will not become dependent on government assistance.
Eligibility Criteria This form is required only if the household member is related to the sponsor, either as a spouse, child, parent, sibling, or other dependent, and is willing to accept joint responsibility for the support of the sponsored immigrant.
Income Requirements The minimum income level must be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the household size, as established by the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Governing Law Federal law governs the I-864A Affidavit of Support, particularly focusing on the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act, specifically sections related to financial responsibilities of sponsors.

Guidelines on Utilizing I 864A Affidavit Of Support

After compiling the necessary information, the next step involves accurately filling out the I-864A Affidavit of Support form. This process requires attention to detail to ensure that all sections are completed correctly prior to submission.

  1. Begin by printing the form in black ink if filling it out manually, or access the form electronically for typing.
  2. Fill out Part 1, which includes your physical and mailing address, full name, date of birth, and Social Security Number (if applicable).
  3. Address the questions regarding whether your mailing address is the same as your physical address, responding appropriately.
  4. In Part 2, select your relationship to the sponsor from the provided options and specify any additional relationships as needed.
  5. Complete Part 3 by providing details about your current employment status and annual income.
  6. Proceed to Part 4, indicating your federal income tax information for the last three years along with details about your assets, if necessary.
  7. In Part 5, the sponsor's promise, declare the names and relevant details for the intending immigrants, ensuring accuracy.
  8. Carefully review the sponsor's statements and fill in the required contact information, including telephone number and email address.
  9. In Part 6, repeat the process for the household member, making sure to check applicable boxes and provide all necessary contact information.
  10. Move to Part 7 if an interpreter is involved, providing their full name and organization details, if pertinent.
  11. Finally, review the entire form for accuracy and completeness before submitting it to ensure adherence to all requirements.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of Form I-864A?

Form I-864A, or the Affidavit of Support, is used to demonstrate that a household member is willing to support an intending immigrant financially. This form is necessary when the intending immigrant does not meet the income requirements on their own. It establishes a contract between the sponsor and the household member, ensuring that the sponsored immigrant will not become a public charge.

Who needs to submit Form I-864A?

Form I-864A must be submitted by household members who are supporting the intending immigrant financially. This is typically required when the sponsor’s income alone is insufficient. The household member can be a spouse, child, parent, sibling, or another dependent. It's important to include this form when filing the main affidavit of support, Form I-864.

What information is required on Form I-864A?

The form requires general information about the household member, including name, address, date of birth, and relationship to the sponsor. It also asks for employment details, income levels, and information about any federal tax returns filed in the last three years. Providing accurate information is crucial to avoid delays or denials in the immigration process.

What are the obligations of the household member?

By signing Form I-864A, the household member agrees to provide financial support to the sponsored immigrant. This includes being responsible for any debts incurred under the affidavit, which could include repayment of government benefits provided to the immigrant. The obligation continues until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters of work.

What happens if the household member's financial situation changes?

If the financial situation of the household member changes, it could impact their ability to support the immigrant. It’s important to report any significant changes to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If the household member can no longer provide support, this may affect the sponsored immigrant’s status and eligibility for government benefits.

Common mistakes

Filling out the I-864A Affidavit of Support form is crucial for those sponsoring an immigrant or intending to live in the U.S. Here are four common mistakes that form fillers often make:

First, individuals frequently confuse the household member's relationship to the sponsor. The form asks for clear identification of the relationship, but some people either leave it blank or choose the wrong option. This can lead to delays in processing. Each relationship must be accurately stated to ensure that the USCIS has the correct context for the financial support being promised. It is essential to read these options carefully and select accordingly.

Secondly, many fail to provide complete information about their employment and income. Under Part 3, the form asks for the household member’s current employment status and income details. Omitting information or misreporting income can weaken the sponsorship claim. Additionally, not attaching the necessary tax returns can raise RED flags. It's important to take the time to gather all required documentation and accurately report the current financial situation.

Third, the requirement for tax return documentation is often misunderstood. The form specifically asks for copies of tax returns for the most recent three years. Some submit incomplete tax documentation or fail to provide any at all. This mistake can lead to rejection of the application. It is crucial to attach the appropriate tax forms or transcripts for each of the three years and ensure they are accurate and fully reflect the filed amounts.

Lastly, signatures and dates are sometimes overlooked. The form requires signatures from both the sponsor and the household member. All dates must correspond accurately with the signatures. Incomplete or mismatched signatures can be a reason for rejection. Check every part of the form to confirm all required fields are filled out completely, and all signatures are present.

Documents used along the form

The I-864A Affidavit of Support form is an important document for individuals seeking to support a household member applying for immigration benefits. Along with this form, there are several other documents that are often required to ensure a complete application. Below is a list of these related forms and documents, each briefly described to help clarify their purpose.

  • I-864 Affidavit of Support: This primary document is submitted by the sponsor of the intending immigrant. It demonstrates that the sponsor has adequate financial resources to support the immigrant, helping to prevent reliance on public assistance.
  • Form I-864EZ: This simplified version of the Affidavit of Support can be used when certain conditions are met, such as having a single sponsor without dependents. It streamlines the process by requiring less information.
  • Form G-325A, Biographic Information: This form collects personal information about both the sponsor and the intending immigrant, including biographical details such as birthplace and residence history.
  • Federal Income Tax Returns: Photocopies or transcripts of the sponsor’s federal tax returns for the most recent tax year are needed. They verify the sponsor's income and financial standing.
  • Proof of Income: Documentation, such as pay stubs or an employment verification letter, may be required to show the sponsor's current income levels.
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency: A copy of the sponsor's birth certificate, passport, or green card is necessary to prove their legal status in the U.S.
  • Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: This form might be necessary if the sponsor is petitioning for a family member to immigrate. It establishes the qualifying relationship between the sponsor and the intending immigrant.

Gathering these documents can seem daunting, but having them organized will aid immensely in the application process. Each document plays a critical role in demonstrating the sponsor's ability and willingness to support the intending immigrant financially. Always check the latest requirements with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to ensure compliance and completeness.

Similar forms

  • Form I-864 Affidavit of Support: Similar to Form I-864A, this form is also used to demonstrate a sponsor’s financial ability to support an intending immigrant. While I-864 is for the primary sponsor, I-864A is for household members contributing to that support.
  • Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative: This form is filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a family relationship. Like I-864A, it requires proof of that relationship and may include financial details regarding support.
  • Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: When applying for a green card, this form assesses the applicant's eligibility. It complements I-864A by incorporating the financial backing assurances from household members.
  • Form I-864EZ Affidavit of Support: This simplified version of the I-864 is used by sponsors who meet certain criteria. It serves the same purpose of showing the financial ability to support an immigrant, similar to I-864A's function for household members.
  • Form I-864W Request for Exemption for Intending Immigrant’s Affidavit of Support: This document is used to request an exemption from the Affidavit of Support requirement in certain cases. Both forms serve to facilitate the immigration process but cater to different scenarios involving financial support.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-864A Affidavit of Support form, it is important to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are five things you should and should not do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information in every section.
  • Do ensure that all required attachments, such as tax returns, are included.
  • Do use black ink if filling out the form by hand.
  • Do sign and date the form where indicated.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; provide answers or mark "N/A" as needed.
  • Don't submit copies of documents; originals or official transcripts are often required.
  • Don't use whiteout or correction tape—errors should be crossed out and corrected properly.
  • Don't forget to double-check for typos or errors in your information.
  • Don't assume that outdated information or forms are acceptable; use the latest version available.

Misconceptions

Understanding the I-864A Affidavit of Support can help clarify its purpose and role in the immigration process. Here are seven common misconceptions about the form:

  • Misconception 1: The I-864A is only for sponsors.
  • This form is specifically designed for household members of the sponsor. It ensures that anyone living with the sponsor who contributes financially is also held accountable.

  • Misconception 2: I don't need to submit this form if I have a job.
  • While having a job is important, household members also need to complete the I-864A to affirm their financial support, regardless of their employment status.

  • Misconception 3: Submitting the I-864A guarantees the immigrant will receive a green card.
  • Submitting the form is just one part of the process. The immigrant must still meet other eligibility requirements set by USCIS.

  • Misconception 4: I can complete the form without any documentation.
  • This is not true. To support the information provided, you must attach relevant financial documentation, such as income tax returns.

  • Misconception 5: My obligations under the I-864A end if I stop living with the sponsor.
  • Once you sign this form, you remain liable for any financial obligations mentioned, even if your living situation changes.

  • Misconception 6: Only U.S. citizens can be sponsors for the I-864A.
  • In fact, lawful permanent residents can also act as sponsors, but it’s important to understand the specifics of the financial responsibilities involved.

  • Misconception 7: The I-864A has no impact on my credit score.
  • While this form does not directly affect your credit, the financial commitments undertaken can influence your financial health and obligations, which may indirectly affect your credit standing.

Clear understanding of these misconceptions allows household members to make informed decisions and fulfill the requirements properly for the immigration process.

Key takeaways

Here are some important points regarding the I-864A Affidavit of Support form:

  • Purpose of the Form: The I-864A is used when a household member will support an intending immigrant financially. This is crucial to ensure that the immigrant will not rely on government assistance.
  • Who Completes It: A household member who lives with the sponsor and provides financial support needs to fill out this form. This includes various relationships such as spouses, children, and other dependents.
  • Household Members' Income: The form requires details about the household member's employment and income. Accurate figures help demonstrate the household's capability to support the immigrant.
  • Tax and Asset Information: Recent federal tax returns and asset details must be included. This adds to the credibility of the income claims made in the application.
  • Joint Liability: By signing the I-864A, the household member agrees to be financially responsible alongside the sponsor. This means they may have to help cover costs if the immigrant requires assistance.
  • Filling Instructions: It is essential to complete the form fully and accurately. Any missing information could lead to a denial of support, affecting the immigrant's application.