Answering "UNKNOWN" to petition questions

[MandyAlex 32]

I am a multiple K-1 petition filer and currently filing a 3rd petition. Both previous petitions were approved without any issues. I am aware I now need a General Waiver for multiple filer. On the first petition, I married my fiancée then divorced after 8 years, while the second petition was never adjudicated since we broke off the relationship before the Embassy interview. The case was eventually closed by USCIS.

On the new I-129F petition I am currently filing, they ask several questions of any previous petitions. Unfortunately, I do not have any records (or recollection) of those petitions since both were filed several years ago. Also, filing a request of records with a USCIS FOIA will be fruitless since they won't divulge their "A-Numbers" without a signed, written consent from the ex-beneficiaries. To me, that's simply impossible this point in time.

I read somewhere I could mark "UNKNOWN" for their "A-Number". Can I do the same for "Date of Filing"? How strict is USCIS with that type of requested information? Will I get a RFE if I respond "UNKNOWN" to both questions? You would think they can lookup that information themselves in my files but again, will they?

I appreciate any information from anyone that has been in this situation before.

Edited February 9, 2016 by MandyAlex

[TBoneTX 45,469]

Estimate the dates to the best of your knowledge, and put "unknown" or "those records not retained" or "can't remember" or similar. Perhaps include a brief attachment to explain the situations, as you have done for us above.

[MandyAlex 32]

Estimate the dates to the best of your knowledge, and put "unknown" or "those records not retained" or "can't remember" or similar. Perhaps include a brief attachment to explain the situations, as you have done for us above.

TBoneTX thanks for your reply. I'll follow your advice and hope for a smooth processing and no RFE. I did explain the whole circumstances with details in the waiver request. I'll update and post my results here for anyone running into the same situation at a later time. Regards!