Who must sign the I-864?

The sponsor named on the affidavit must sign the I-864. If a joint sponsor is used, that person signs a separate I-864. Petitioners and beneficiaries do not sign the sponsor’s affidavit unless explicitly required by USCIS instructions.

Is notarization required?

USCIS does not universally mandate notarization of the I-864 for all filings; consulates and local practice may request notarized copies. When in doubt, follow the filing instructions on the visa packet or USCIS form instructions and consider obtaining a notarized copy to avoid delays.

Can I electronically sign the I-864?

Electronic signatures are generally acceptable where allowed by the receiving agency and consistent with ESIGN (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and state UETA law. Confirm the receiving office’s guidance; preserve an audit trail showing signer intent, attribution, and a reproducible record.

What supporting documents are required?

Provide federal tax returns or IRS transcripts, W-2s, pay stubs, and proof of U.S. status. If relying on assets or a joint sponsor, include financial statements and a separate signed I-864 with comparable documentation.

How long does sponsor liability last?

Sponsor obligations generally continue until the sponsored immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, has worked 40 qualifying quarters, dies, or is relieved by divorce or court order. Specific termination events and enforcement rights are governed by immigration law and precedent.

What if the sponsor dies or cannot pay?

If the sponsor dies, obligation typically survives the sponsor’s estate until termination events occur. A sponsored immigrant may seek enforcement against the sponsor or the sponsor’s estate under applicable civil causes of action; consult legal counsel for enforcement or relief options.

I-864 Form

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I-864 Affidavit of Support

Sponsor: Address:

Beneficiary (Immigrant): Alien Registration Number (if any):

Case Number (if any): Filing Date:

RECITALS

WHEREAS, Sponsor affirms the intention to provide financial support to the Beneficiary to ensure that the Beneficiary will not become a public charge; and

WHEREAS, the Sponsor represents that Sponsor's income, assets, and household composition are sufficient to meet the minimum income requirement as required by applicable law and policy at the time of filing; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to set forth the Sponsor's binding obligations with respect to maintenance, support, and potential reimbursement to public agencies providing means-tested benefits to the Beneficiary.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants contained herein, Sponsor hereby declares and agrees as follows:

1. AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT OBLIGATION

1.1 Sponsor affirms under penalty of perjury that Sponsor is a person who resides at the address set forth above and who is willing and able to receive and maintain the Beneficiary in the Sponsor's household. Sponsor accepts a legal obligation to maintain the Beneficiary at an annual income that is not less than 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines applicable at the time of filing, or such other minimum as required by statute or regulation.

1.2 Household Size: Sponsor's Current Annual Income: $

1.3 Sponsor warrants that the income figures provided are supported by tax returns, employer statements, or other documentary evidence. Sponsor shall provide such documentation upon request by the appropriate authority or agency.

2. DURATION AND SCOPE OF OBLIGATION

2.1 The Sponsor's obligation under this Affidavit of Support shall continue until the earliest of the following events: the Beneficiary becomes a citizen of the United States; the Beneficiary has earned or can be credited with forty quarters of work in the United States under applicable laws; the Beneficiary dies; the Beneficiary is lawfully admitted to permanent residence and subsequently naturalizes; or the Sponsor's obligation is terminated by operation of law.

2.2 The obligation extends to any dependent included on the underlying immigrant petition where applicable, and includes the duty to furnish necessary food, shelter, clothing, and medical care not provided by public benefit programs.

3. REIMBURSEMENT AND ENFORCEMENT

3.1 Sponsor acknowledges that a public agency that provides means-tested benefits to the Beneficiary may seek reimbursement from the Sponsor for the cost of those benefits to the extent permitted by law, and Sponsor agrees to reimburse such amounts upon demand.

3.2 The Sponsor understands that this Affidavit of Support is enforceable by the Beneficiary or by any Federal, State, or local agency that provided means-tested public benefits to the Beneficiary, pursuant to applicable law.

4. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND PENALTIES

4.1 Sponsor represents and warrants that all information provided in this Affidavit, including income, assets, household composition, and supporting schedules, is true, complete, and correct to the best of Sponsor's knowledge. Sponsor understands that intentional misrepresentation may subject Sponsor to civil or criminal penalties.

List of household members to be counted toward household size (include name, relationship, age, and evidence provided): Documentation provided (tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, etc.):

5. JOINT SPONSOR (IF APPLICABLE)

5.1 If a joint sponsor executes a separate Affidavit of Support, the joint sponsor shall accept legal obligations equivalent to those set forth herein for the Beneficiary. Joint sponsor information (if any): Name: Address:

6. NOTICES

6.1 Any notice required or permitted under this Affidavit shall be in writing and delivered to the addresses set forth in this form by personal service, certified mail, or other means reasonably calculated to provide actual notice. Notices to Sponsor shall be delivered to: Address above or email: Phone:

7. AMENDMENTS, WAIVER, SEVERABILITY

7.1 No amendment or waiver of any provision of this Affidavit shall be effective unless in writing and signed by Sponsor and any joint sponsor, and where required by law, acknowledged before a notary public.

7.2 If any provision of this Affidavit is held invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of the Affidavit shall remain in full force and effect.

8. GOVERNING LAW; ENTIRE AGREEMENT; COUNTERPARTS

8.1 This Affidavit shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United States and applicable federal statutes and regulations concerning immigrant support obligations. To the extent state law is implicated, such law shall be applied consistent with federal law.

8.2 This Affidavit, together with any attachments and schedules executed in connection herewith, constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the matters set forth herein and supersedes all prior understandings and agreements.

9. CERTIFICATION

I certify, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States, that the statements made in this Affidavit of Support are complete, true, and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Sponsor

Sponsor Name:

By (Signature):

Date:

Joint Sponsor (if applicable)

Joint Sponsor Name:

By (Signature):

Date:

What the I-864 Form Is and why it matters

The I-864 Form, Affidavit of Support, is a legally binding contract sponsors complete to accept financial responsibility for an immigrant seeking a family-based or certain employment-based permanent resident status in the United States. Required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of State in most family-based immigrant visa and adjustment of status cases, the form documents the sponsor’s income, household size, and ability to maintain the intending immigrant at no public charge. It creates enforceable obligations and remains effective until the sponsored immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen or meets statutory termination conditions.

Why the I-864 matters for sponsors and applicants

The I-864 ensures the U.S. government that the sponsored immigrant will not rely on most means-tested public benefits by making the sponsor financially responsible. It supports visa or adjustment adjudication and provides the sponsored person with an enforceable claim against the sponsor.

Who prepares and relies on the I-864

Typical filers and parties involved in the I-864 process include sponsors, petitioning relatives, and attorneys preparing immigration cases.

Family sponsor — U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident financially sponsoring an immigrant; must meet income requirements.
Principal applicant — beneficiary named on the visa or adjustment application who benefits from the affidavit.
Household member or joint sponsor — provides supplementary income evidence when sponsor’s income is insufficient.

Accurate completion and timely supporting documentation reduce processing delays and help avoid RFEs or petition denials.

Step-by-step: completing and submitting the I-864

Follow these steps to complete and submit the I-864 Form accurately to USCIS or a U.S. consular office.

01

Step 1: Collect proof of income and tax returns for last three years.
02

Step 2: Determine household size and include dependents and household members.
03

Step 3: Complete sponsor’s personal, employment, and financial information accurately.
04

Step 4: Sign the form and assemble supporting exhibits before filing.

How the I-864 fits into visa and adjustment workflows

Overview of where a completed I-864 is submitted and how it fits into immigrant visa and adjustment workflows.

Upload: For adjustment of status, file with Form I-485 package where required by USCIS.
Consular: For consular processing, submit with immigrant visa packet to the U.S. consulate.
Retention: Keep original signed copy; USCIS may request originals for interviews or review.
Evidence: Include tax transcripts, employment letters, and proof of assets where needed.

Key settings when completing the I-864 online

Key settings when completing and submitting the I-864 through an online eSignature or case management system.

Field	Configuration
Authentication	Email link or SMS; optional KBA or ID check
Document Format	PDF/A recommended; preserve fields and embedded audit trail
Attachment Type	IRS transcripts, W-2s, pay stubs uploaded as PDFs
Signature Method	Electronic signature saved with timestamp and signer IP

Digital signing and platform requirements

Digital signing and submission requirements for I-864 when using eSignature platforms and Remote Online Notarization (RON) services.

Formats: PDF, Word DOCX support
Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Google Workspace
Authentication: Email, SMS, optional 2FA

Timing considerations and document readiness

Key timing considerations when preparing and submitting an I-864 in support of a visa or adjustment application.

When to File:

Submit with the immigrant visa packet or with Form I-485 per USCIS instructions.

Tax Documents:

Provide most recent tax return and evidence of current-year income when available.

Processing Timelines:

USCIS processing tied to petition; expect consular timelines to vary.

Statutory Obligations:

Sponsor's obligations begin when affidavit is signed and accepted.

Notifications:

Respond promptly to RFEs to avoid delays in visa adjudication.

Key milestones from filing through termination

Major milestones for an I-864 case from filing through termination help sponsors track obligations and responses.

01

Petition Filed

Petition or visa application filed; I-864 attached as required.

02

Visa/Adjustment Adjudicated

Immigrant approved or denied; sponsor obligations arise once accepted.

03

Public Charge Review

USCIS or consulate evaluates financial sufficiency against poverty guidelines.

04

Termination Events

Obligation ends upon naturalization, 40 quarters of work, death, or court order.

Penalties and legal risks of errors or omissions

Denial Risk: Incomplete support causes visa or adjustment denial.

Civil Enforcement: Sponsored immigrant may sue for support.

Public Benefits Recovery: Sponsor reimbursed for means-tested benefits.

Immigration Consequences: Sponsor affidavit affects future petitions.

Tax Implications: Income used in means calculations.

Long-Term Liability: Obligation can last many years.

Common preparation mistakes that delay processing

Failing to include current tax transcripts or accurate W-2s is a common error that prompts RFEs and slows visa adjudication.
Miscalculating household size by omitting household members or previously sponsored immigrants can understate required income and lead to denials.
Using unsupported asset valuations or improper documentation for self-employed sponsors often results in requests for certified evidence or appraisals.
Not verifying whether a joint sponsor is needed before filing causes last-minute delays and may require reopening the case for additional affidavits.

Essential elements to include with a professional I-864 package

Key components of a complete I-864 package focus on identification, income evidence, household calculations, supporting exhibits, signatures, and sponsor attestations.

Sponsor Identity

Full legal name, U.S. address, date of birth, Social Security number if available, and evidence of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status must be included for USCIS verification.

Income Evidence

Attach federal tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs; IRS Form 4506-T or tax return transcripts strengthen verification and satisfy USCIS financial review requirements.

Household Composition

Detail all household members and dependents, include those whose income is counted; provide proof such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or evidence of shared residence.

Asset Documentation

If relying on assets, document ownership and valuation with bank statements, property appraisals, or letter from financial institutions showing liquidity and fair-market value.

Joint Sponsor Forms

When the sponsor’s income is insufficient, include a separate signed I-864 from a joint sponsor with equivalent supporting documentation proving ability to meet the poverty guideline.

Sponsor Attestation

The signed affidavit affirms acceptance of financial responsibility and should be dated; the form creates a legally enforceable duty under immigration law and federal statutes.

Data items commonly collected on the I-864

Personal Data: Full names, DOBs, SSNs

Financial Records: Tax returns, W-2s, bank statements

Proof of Status: Passport or naturalization certificate

Supporting IDs: Driver license, government ID

Affidavit Copy: Signed original retained securely

Audit Trail: Timestamp and signer IP

Comparing common eSignature providers for I-864 handling

Pricing snapshot for common eSignature plans. signNow is listed first; competitor columns show typical starting prices and feature availability.

	signNow	DocuSign	Adobe Sign	PandaDoc	HelloSign
Starting Price	$8/user/mo	$15/user/mo	$14/user/mo	$19/user/mo	$15/user/mo
Free Trial	Yes, 7-day trial	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies
Bulk Send	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Audit Trail	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
HIPAA Compliant	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No

Frequently asked questions about completing the I-864

Answers to common questions about signing, notarization, electronic submission, supporting evidence, obligations, and what to do if circumstances change.

Need help? Contact support

Who must sign the I-864?
The sponsor named on the affidavit must sign the I-864. If a joint sponsor is used, that person signs a separate I-864. Petitioners and beneficiaries do not sign the sponsor’s affidavit unless explicitly required by USCIS instructions.
Is notarization required?
USCIS does not universally mandate notarization of the I-864 for all filings; consulates and local practice may request notarized copies. When in doubt, follow the filing instructions on the visa packet or USCIS form instructions and consider obtaining a notarized copy to avoid delays.
Can I electronically sign the I-864?
Electronic signatures are generally acceptable where allowed by the receiving agency and consistent with ESIGN (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and state UETA law. Confirm the receiving office’s guidance; preserve an audit trail showing signer intent, attribution, and a reproducible record.
What supporting documents are required?
Provide federal tax returns or IRS transcripts, W-2s, pay stubs, and proof of U.S. status. If relying on assets or a joint sponsor, include financial statements and a separate signed I-864 with comparable documentation.
How long does sponsor liability last?
Sponsor obligations generally continue until the sponsored immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, has worked 40 qualifying quarters, dies, or is relieved by divorce or court order. Specific termination events and enforcement rights are governed by immigration law and precedent.
What if the sponsor dies or cannot pay?
If the sponsor dies, obligation typically survives the sponsor’s estate until termination events occur. A sponsored immigrant may seek enforcement against the sponsor or the sponsor’s estate under applicable civil causes of action; consult legal counsel for enforcement or relief options.

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