Form I-864: Affidavit of Support
Form I-864 is a legally binding contract where the sponsor agrees to financially support the immigrant. It's required for most family-based green card applications.
What is Form I-864?
The Affidavit of Support is a legally enforceable contract. When you sign it, you're agreeing to:
- Maintain the immigrant at 125% of the federal poverty level
- Reimburse any government agency that provides means-tested benefits
- Continue this obligation until the immigrant becomes a citizen, earns 40 work credits, or leaves the U.S.
This is a Serious Commitment
The I-864 obligation does not end if:
- ×You get divorced
- ×The immigrant doesn't work
- ×You lose your job or income
- ×You change your mind
Income Requirements
Sponsors must have income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
2024 Poverty Guidelines (125% - 48 Contiguous States)
What Counts as Income?
Employment Income
- Salary/wages
- Self-employment
- Tips
- Commissions
Assets
- Savings accounts
- Stocks/bonds
- Real estate equity
- Retirement accounts (if accessible)
Other Income
- Social Security
- Retirement/pension
- Rental income
- Alimony/child support
Don't Meet the Income Requirement?
If your income alone doesn't meet the 125% threshold, you have options:
Use Assets
Assets can count at 1/5 of their value (1/3 for spouse/child). For example, $50,000 in savings counts as $10,000 toward the income requirement.
Joint Sponsor
A joint sponsor (any U.S. citizen or permanent resident 18+) can submit their own I-864 to cover the income requirement. They take on the same legal obligations.
Household Member Income
Household members who are willing to be jointly liable can contribute their income using Form I-864A.
Required Documents
- Form I-864 (completed and signed)
- Copy of sponsor's federal tax returns (last 3 years)
- W-2s and 1099s for most recent tax year
- Employment verification letter
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence
- Proof of relationship (for sponsors who are not the petitioner)
SureCitizen Helps You
We'll calculate your household size, check if you meet the income requirements, and create a checklist of exactly what documents you need.
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