How to Write an Affidavit of Support
Writing 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. This legal document demonstrates your willingness and ability to financially support the applicant during their stay in the United States. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an affidavit of support, ensuring that your document is comprehensive, accurate, and meets all the necessary requirements.
Understanding the Purpose of an Affidavit of Support
An affidavit of support is a legally binding document that guarantees the financial well-being of the sponsored individual. It ensures that the applicant will not become a public charge, relying on government assistance for their basic needs. The person who signs the affidavit, known as the sponsor, must meet certain income requirements and be willing to take on legal responsibility for the sponsored person.
Qualifying as a Sponsor
Before writing your affidavit of support, you must first determine if you qualify as a sponsor. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires sponsors to be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) and have a certain level of income. The sponsor must also be at least 18 years old and willing to take on the legal obligations associated with the affidavit.
Calculating the Required Income
To qualify as a sponsor, you must meet the minimum income requirements set by USCIS. The income level is determined based on the number of people in your household, including the sponsored individual. You can find the income requirements on the USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney to ensure you meet the necessary criteria.
Writing the Affidavit of Support
Once you have determined your eligibility as a sponsor and calculated the required income, it’s time to write the affidavit of support. Here are the key components to include in your document:
1. Header Information: Include your full name, address, and contact information at the top of the page.
2. Affidavit of Support Form: Complete the I-864, Affidavit of Support form, which is the official document used by USCIS.
3. Financial Information: Provide detailed information about your income, including wages, salaries, and any other sources of income.
4. Household Information: List all members of your household, including their relationship to you and their income.
5. Legal Obligations: Acknowledge your legal obligation to support the sponsored individual for a specified period, typically 40% of your income or the federal poverty guidelines, whichever is less.
6. Signature and Date: Sign and date the affidavit of support, and have it notarized if required.
Reviewing and Submitting the Affidavit of Support
After writing your affidavit of support, carefully review the document for accuracy and completeness. Ensure that all information is up-to-date and that you have met all the necessary requirements. Once you are confident in the document, submit it along with any other required forms and supporting documents to USCIS.
In conclusion, writing an affidavit of support is a significant responsibility that requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the immigration process. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your affidavit of support is well-prepared and meets all the necessary requirements for a successful immigration application.
