How to Prepare an Affidavit of Support
Preparing an affidavit of support is a crucial step in the immigration process, especially when sponsoring a family member or fiancé(e) for a green card. An affidavit of support is a legal document that guarantees financial responsibility for the sponsored individual. This article will guide you through the process of how to prepare an affidavit of support, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements and provide a strong foundation for your application.
Understanding the Purpose of an Affidavit of Support
An affidavit of support is required to demonstrate that the sponsor has the financial means to support the sponsored individual. This is to ensure that the sponsored person does not become a public charge, relying on government assistance for their basic needs. The affidavit of support is typically prepared by the sponsor, who must meet certain income requirements set by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Eligibility and Income Requirements
Before preparing the affidavit of support, it is essential to determine your eligibility as a sponsor. You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and have a certain level of income. The income requirements vary depending on the number of people you are sponsoring and the state where you reside. You can find the specific income requirements on the USCIS website.
Collecting Necessary Information
To prepare the affidavit of support, you will need to gather certain information. This includes:
– Personal information: Full name, date of birth, and Social Security number for both the sponsor and the sponsored individual.
– Financial information: Proof of income, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs, for the last two years.
– Sponsorship details: Information about the sponsored individual, including their full name, date of birth, and relationship to the sponsor.
Completing the Affidavit of Support Form
The affidavit of support form, known as Form I-864, is the primary document you will need to prepare. Here are the steps to complete the form:
1. Fill in your personal and financial information accurately.
2. Declare that you are willing to support the sponsored individual for a specified period, usually 40% of the federal poverty guidelines.
3. Sign and date the form in the presence of a notary public.
Attaching Supporting Documents
In addition to the completed Form I-864, you will need to attach supporting documents to prove your income and eligibility. These may include:
– Tax returns for the last two years.
– W-2 forms or pay stubs for the last two years.
– Proof of any other income sources, such as dividends, interest, or rental income.
Reviewing and Submitting the Affidavit of Support
Before submitting the affidavit of support, carefully review all the information to ensure accuracy. Once you are confident that everything is in order, submit the form and supporting documents to USCIS along with the rest of your immigration application.
Conclusion
Preparing an affidavit of support is a vital part of the immigration process. By following these steps and ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements, you can provide a strong foundation for your application. Remember to gather all the necessary information, complete the form accurately, and attach the required supporting documents. With careful preparation, you can successfully navigate the affidavit of support process and take a significant step towards bringing your loved ones to the United States.
