Affidavit of Support mistakes that cause RFEs

Filing an Affidavit of Support correctly can make the difference between a smooth immigration process and receiving a costly and time-consuming Request for Evidence (RFE). Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is one of the most heavily reviewed documents in family-based immigration cases because USCIS wants to ensure the intending immigrant will have adequate financial support in the United States. Even small mistakes, missing tax documents, or income calculation issues can delay a case for months. Understanding the most common reasons RFEs are issued can help sponsors avoid unnecessary setbacks.

One of the most common mistakes is submitting incomplete financial evidence. Many applicants assume that providing only a tax return is enough, but USCIS often expects additional supporting documentation. Sponsors should generally include their most recent federal tax return, W-2s or 1099s, recent pay stubs, and an employment verification letter showing position, salary, and start date. If the sponsor is self-employed, additional business records or profit and loss statements may be necessary. Missing pages from tax returns or uploading unreadable copies can also trigger an RFE.

Another major issue involves household size calculations. The household size listed on Form I-864 directly affects the minimum income requirement under the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Sponsors frequently forget to count dependents claimed on taxes, previously sponsored immigrants, or certain household members living with them. Even if a sponsor earns enough income, an incorrect household size can create inconsistencies that lead USCIS to question eligibility. Carefully reviewing this section before filing is extremely important.

Income calculation errors are also very common. USCIS reviews both current income and historical earnings to determine whether a sponsor qualifies. Some sponsors mistakenly use projected income rather than actual current income, while others rely on overtime, bonuses, or inconsistent self-employment earnings without proper documentation. If the sponsor recently changed jobs, it is important to provide updated evidence showing stable current employment. In situations where income alone does not meet the required threshold, applicants may need to include qualifying assets or obtain a joint sponsor.

Joint sponsor cases tend to receive RFEs when the joint sponsor fails to provide complete documentation. A joint sponsor must independently qualify and submit a properly completed Form I-864 with supporting evidence. USCIS may issue an RFE if the joint sponsor forgets to sign the form, fails to include proof of citizenship or permanent residency, or does not provide sufficient financial records. It is also important that the joint sponsor understands the legal obligations attached to signing the affidavit.

Another overlooked issue is failing to use the correct version of the form or leaving fields blank. USCIS regularly updates immigration forms, and using an outdated edition can result in rejection or delays. Additionally, unanswered questions, inconsistent addresses, and unsigned pages can create avoidable complications. Before submitting the Affidavit of Support package, applicants should carefully review every page for accuracy, consistency, and completeness.

Preparing an Affidavit of Support the right way from the beginning can save applicants significant time, stress, and delays in their immigration process. Properly organizing supporting documents and understanding USCIS financial requirements can greatly reduce the chances of receiving an RFE. If you need assistance preparing an Affidavit of Support or reviewing your immigration case, call 321-325-1125 or leave us a message at www.sapeterkinlaw.com.