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FormsUpdated March 2026

Guide to Form I-864: Affidavit of Support

How the sponsor proves financial ability to support the immigrant, including income thresholds, required documents, and signing requirements.

Last updated: March 2026
Based on official USCIS guidelines

Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is a required form in most family-based green card cases. It is used to show that the applicant has adequate financial support and is unlikely to become a public charge in the United States.

Quick Overview

Form: I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
Who files: Petitioner (sponsor)
Purpose: Prove financial ability to support the immigrant
Requirement: Must meet minimum income threshold
Outcome: Required for green card approval

What Is Form I-864?

Form I-864 is a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government.

By signing this form, the sponsor agrees to financially support the immigrant and ensure they do not rely on certain public benefits.

Who Must File Form I-864?

The following individuals may be required to file:

  • The petitioner (required in most cases)
  • A joint sponsor (if the petitioner does not meet income requirements)
  • A household member (in certain situations using Form I-864A)

Even if the petitioner has little or no income, they must still submit Form I-864.

Income Requirements

Sponsors must meet a minimum income level based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

In most cases:

  • Income must be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
  • For active-duty military sponsoring a spouse, 100% may apply

Household size includes:

  • The sponsor
  • The immigrant
  • Any dependents
  • Anyone else included on the sponsor’s tax return

What If Income Is Not Enough?

If the sponsor does not meet the income requirement, you can:

Use a joint sponsor:

  • Another individual agrees to meet the financial requirement

Use assets:

  • Savings, property, or investments may be used to supplement income

Combine household income:

  • Through Form I-864A

Documents Required

You must submit evidence to support the financial claims:

  • Most recent federal tax return
  • W-2s or 1099s
  • Proof of current employment
  • Pay stubs
  • Bank statements (if using assets)

USCIS uses this information to verify financial eligibility.

Is Form I-864 Legally Binding?

Yes. Form I-864 is a legally enforceable contract.

The sponsor’s financial responsibility continues until:

  • The immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen
  • The immigrant earns 40 qualifying quarters of work (about 10 years)
  • The immigrant leaves the United States permanently
  • The immigrant dies

Divorce does not end the sponsor’s obligation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not meeting income requirements
  • Submitting outdated tax documents
  • Incorrect household size calculation
  • Missing signatures
  • Incomplete financial evidence

These errors can delay or lead to denial of the green card application.

Real Experiences & Tips

Based on real applicant experiences from public immigration communities:

  • Many applicants underestimate household size, which can affect income eligibility
  • Joint sponsors are commonly used and accepted when income requirements are not met
  • Submitting clear and complete tax documents helps avoid delays
  • Some applicants receive RFEs due to missing financial evidence rather than income issues
  • Organizing financial documents clearly can make review faster and smoother

These experiences may vary depending on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a joint sponsor?
Only if your income does not meet the required threshold.

Can assets replace income?
Yes, but they must meet specific valuation requirements.

Does the sponsor need to be a U.S. citizen?
No, lawful permanent residents can also sponsor.

Summary

Form I-864 is a critical part of the marriage-based green card process. It ensures that the immigrant has sufficient financial support and will not rely on public benefits. Meeting the income requirement and submitting complete documentation is essential for approval.

Not Sure If You Meet the Income Requirement?

Financial eligibility can be confusing, especially when calculating household size and income.

Answer a few quick questions and we’ll help you understand your requirements based on your situation.

  • Takes about 2 minutes
  • Personalized to your case
  • Helps you avoid delays

Check your eligibility: [Take the Quiz]

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