I-864 Questions

[__caitlin 2]

Hi,

I just recently mailed out my I-130 package and am trying to get a head start -- reading the guides, shortcuts, etc. -- on gathering the materials for the next stages. I have some questions about filling out the I-864.

I graduated from college last year and am currently a freelance writer. I do NOT make enough to fit the 125% poverty line requirement -- but I have a joint sponsor:

1. My joint sponsor is a family friend, NOT related to me -- is he included in my "household size"? Should I be entering his information anywhere in MY version of the I-864? If so, where?
2. Does my joint sponsor also have to fill out an I-864 of his own?
3. Does the joint sponsor need to submit anything besides copy of birth certificate and 3 years federal tax returns?
   
4. Also, I was a student for the past 3 tax years, obviously -- my most recent tax return is not going to reflect my current income. Will that be a problem? If so, what else should I do/submit?
   
5. Last question -- How are assets used in calculating income? Say, if I have a balance in a savings account of $5,000, how is that factored in?

Any help with these would be greatly appreciated. Thanks everyone!

[NikLR 13,234]

1) no. He is simply your joint sponsor.

2) yes each of you must sign a completed I-864.

3) proof of current income is also a good idea so pay stubs and/or letter from an employer

4) you should also submit anything that shows you make a current income

5) for a spouse it is 3x the money per the deficient. If you were trying to apply completely on assets you'd need $60000... So if you're $5000 short on income, you'd need $15000 in assets to make up the difference.

[__caitlin 2]

1) no. He is simply your joint sponsor.

2) yes each of you must sign a completed I-864.

3) proof of current income is also a good idea so pay stubs and/or letter from an employer

4) you should also submit anything that shows you make a current income

5) for a spouse it is 3x the money per the deficient. If you were trying to apply completely on assets you'd need $60000... So if you're $5000 short on income, you'd need $15000 in assets to make up the difference.

Ohh, thank you so much! Regarding #3 -- my joint sponsor is actually retired (although I'm sure he still meets the 125% poverty requirement). Is there anything else he can submit, then, besides tax returns?

[gwenstar 66]

Ohh, thank you so much! Regarding #3 -- my joint sponsor is actually retired (although I'm sure he still meets the 125% poverty requirement). Is there anything else he can submit, then, besides tax returns?

If he is receiving payments from SSI/pension/401K or other investment accounts there is usually a statement that is sent stating the amount of money disbursed as regular payments. SSI - has a benefit award letter sent annually or for a pension you can get current information from an administrator for the pension plan. Also, if the joint sponsor has assets that are accessible and meet the requirements for sponsorship - you could have those verified through the bank. For instance, a print out from the bank that is notarized or even just a form that states the accounts/balances and if applicable the cost to convert to cash. Then have the bank employee sign the statement/have it notarized this could be submitted along with bank statements.