How important are tax returns? (I-134)

[Milagros11 1]

I have my interview this Wednesday (1-15) in Guayaquil. I am submitting my pay stubs, letter from my employer, and proof of enrollment in a graduate program. I am a nurse and make enough money but I only worked a few months in 2012 while I studied so my tax return is well below the poverty line. I really do not want to submit that tax return and raise any alerts.

Are tax returns required? It is just listed as an example of proof you can provide in the instructions.

My mother is also co-sponsoring us, she provided a letter from her employer and 2012 tax return which is well above the poverty line. She prefers I do not share the tax return unless it is required.

What do you think? Should I wait for them to ask for tax returns or just assume they are necessary and submit them without prompting.

I may be over-thinking this. Any advice will be appreciated.

[Zedayn 486]

I would say they are very important. Most embassies REQUIRE at least the most recent year tax return. You need to follow the embassy instructions and submit all documents they require.

[fantonledzepp 159]

I don't know if they are required at this stage in the process, for sure they are needed for Adjustment of Status. With that being said, they did take my tax returns when I submitted them in Guayaquil.

Edited January 10, 2014 by fantonledzepp