Short i864 question

[halfamill 1]

I am petitioning my spouse but I haven't had any income for the past couple of years. I just filled out the i864 form. I live with my mother and her total assets surpass the 125% poverty line. Does my mother need to fill out both the i-864a and i-864 forms or just the i-864a?

[newacct 688]

There are two options.

1. You could count your mother as your household member, and she would fill out an I-864A, and her income would be added to your household income on your I-864.
2. Or you could have your mother be a joint sponsor, and she would fill out an I-864 that is completely separate from your I-864. This is probably the better way.

[halfamill 1]

There are two options.

1. You could count your mother as your household member, and she would fill out an I-864A, and her income would be added to your household income on your I-864.
2. Or you could have your mother be a joint sponsor, and she would fill out an I-864 that is completely separate from your I-864. This is probably the better way.

Thanks a lot. If you don't mind me asking why is the second option the better way?