I-864A: Financial responsibility is an important factor to consider when sponsoring an immigrant to the United States. Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, makes sure the prospective immigrant stays out of the public eye. But occasionally, the sponsor’s revenue is insufficient on its own.
This is the situation when Form I-864A is needed. This guide will define Form I-864A, describe who can submit it, and list the documents that must be submitted.
Table of Contents
What is Form I-864A?
An addendum to Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member. It is applied when the sponsor’s income is insufficient to meet the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ minimal financial standards (USCIS). To help satisfy these standards, Form I-864A permits the inclusion of household members’ income. By signing this document, the member of the household consents to help the intended immigrant by pooling their income with that of the sponsor.
By completing this form, the sponsor and the household member effectively enter into a legally enforceable agreement requiring them to help the prospective immigrant. This is important because the United States government wants to make sure that the new immigrant won’t need public aid.
Who Can Submit Form I-864A?
A household member who agrees to have their income taken into account while evaluating the sponsor’s capacity to support the intended immigrant may file Form I-864A. Among the members of the household are:
- Spouse: The sponsor’s spouse living in the same residence.
- Other Dependents: Children or other dependents listed on the sponsor’s latest federal tax return.
- Other Relatives: Any relative who has been living in the same residence as the sponsor for at least six months.
The household member must be a citizen of the United States or a lawful permanent resident (holder of a green card), it is vital to remember. The household member must also be legally obligated to support the immigrant if needed and willing to provide USCIS with financial details.
I-864A Checklist of Documents
When submitting Form I-864A, the following documents are typically required:
- Completed Form I-864A: Make sure the sponsor and the household member have signed and completed all the form’s sections.
- Proof of Relationship: Present documentation, such as a marriage license or birth certificate, that attests to the household member’s and the sponsor’s relationship.
- Proof of Residence: Proof that the household member lives with the sponsor at the same address. Utility bills, leases, and mortgage statements are a few examples of this.
- Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs, letters of employment verification, or other records attesting to the income of the household member. To demonstrate the financial contribution of the household member, it is imperative to enclose the most recent federal tax return.
- Identification Documents: A copy of the household member’s green card, U.S. passport, or birth certificate, as proof of citizenship or authorized permanent residency.
- IRS Form W-2:Statements of wages and taxes that reflect the income of the household member as reported to the IRS.
- Bank Statements: To further support the household member’s income and financial stability, provide recent bank statements.
- Additional Supporting Documents: any more paperwork that could be used to determine the household member’s link to the sponsor and financial stability.
For more detailed information on the documents required for Form I-864A, you can refer to this comprehensive guide: Affidavit of Support Checklist – Form I-864.
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Additional Tips for Completing Form I-864A
- Accuracy is Key: Ensure that all information on the form and in accompanying papers is correct and up to date.
- Notarization: While not needed, having the form notarized will help guarantee that all signatures are real and the document is completed correctly.
- Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about any portion of the form or the necessary documents, consult an immigration attorney or a reputable immigration service provider.
Common Issues and Solutions
Even with the proper documentation, applications may encounter delays or demands for additional information. If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), don’t panic. It simply indicates that USCIS requires additional information to process your application.
Conclusion
Form I-864A is a valuable resource for sponsors who require additional financial assistance to meet the USCIS income requirements for sponsoring an immigrant. Understanding who can submit this form and what papers to include is critical to a smooth and successful application process. This tutorial will help sponsors and their household members handle the obligations and duties associated with Form I-864A.
