One of the most common sources of delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs), and even outright denials in family-based immigration is Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. USCIS officers scrutinize this form very closely because it is designed to ensure that the immigrant will not become a public charge.
At US Immigration Consultants, we’ve seen firsthand how small mistakes or incomplete documentation can create major setbacks. Here are practical tips to strengthen your I-864 filing and help avoid costly delays.
📑 1. Always Include the Complete Tax Return (Not Just W-2s)
Many sponsors mistakenly submit only the first two pages of the IRS Form 1040 or just their W-2s. USCIS wants to see the entire tax return, including schedules that may show additional income, such as:
- Self-employment earnings (Schedule C)
- Rental property income (Schedule E)
- Investment income (Schedule B/D)
👉 Tip: Include at least the most recent tax year (required), and it is best practice to also include two prior years of complete returns to show financial consistency.
💵 2. Provide Three Recent Pay Stubs
USCIS uses pay stubs to verify current employment and income levels. Always submit the most recent three pay stubs to demonstrate that you are still working at the income level reported on your tax returns.
🏦 3. Use Bank Statements to Show Assets
If your income is just under the poverty guideline, you may use assets to meet the requirement. Strong asset evidence includes:
- Savings and checking account balances (submit 3–6 months of statements)
- Certificates of deposit (CDs)
- Stock, bond, or mutual fund accounts
👉 Remember: Assets must be easily convertible to cash within one year. IF you’re not sure, then don’t submit, thinking they will. The USCIS officers are clear about what is convertible.
💎 4. Document Other Valuable Assets
In addition to bank accounts, you can list:
- Equity in real estate (provide appraisal + mortgage statement)
- Ownership of vehicles (if not the primary family car)
- Retirement accounts (IRA, 401(k), pensions)
📊 5. Don’t File “On the Edge” of the Poverty Guidelines
If your household income is within $1,000 of the minimum requirement, go beyond the minimum. USCIS officers are trained to scrutinize borderline cases, and any fluctuation in income may trigger a NOID or denial.
📝 6. Write a Clear Cover Letter
A professional, concise cover letter can make a big difference. Outline your:
- Total household income
- Number of dependents claimed
- Assets being used
- Explanation of any unusual income sources
This helps the USCIS officer quickly understand your financial picture without having to piece it together. Here is a link to a sample cover letter that you can download from us.
📚 7. Include Prior Tax Years (Best Practice)
While USCIS requires the most recent tax year, including two additional years of tax returns, it demonstrates stability and reduces questions about income fluctuations.
📌 8. Double-Check Household Size
A common mistake: sponsors miscalculate their household size. Remember to include:
- Yourself (the sponsor)
- Your spouse
- All dependent children (even if not immigrating)
- Any dependents claimed on taxes.
- The intending immigrant(s)
🔄 9. Consider a Joint Sponsor When Necessary
If you do not meet the income requirement on your own, plan by including a joint sponsor with their own I-864. Don’t wait for USCIS to issue an RFE — it will only delay your case.
💡 Key Takeaway
Form I-864 is not just a form — it’s a financial contract with the U.S. government. USCIS expects full, clear documentation to prove that you can support your relative. By:
- Including complete tax returns
- Adding pay stubs, bank statements, and assets
- Preparing a cover letter
- Submitting prior years of returns
…you give your application the strongest chance of approval with no delays.
At US Immigration Consultants, we help clients prepare I-864 packets that are complete, clear, and RFE-proof, so families can avoid unnecessary setbacks.
A practical tool: Here is a link to a sample cover letter that you can download from us.
