USCIS has updated Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, with an Edition Date of 08/24/2026. Notably, the new version takes effect on August 31, 2026, and there is no grace period for transition.

Only use the new Form I-864 starting August 31, 2026

According to the USCIS announcement, starting August 31, 2026, applicants must use Form I-864 with the 08/24/2026 Edition Date. This is particularly important for cases currently in the process of preparing financial sponsorship documentation. If an older version is mistakenly submitted after the effective date, the filing may encounter processing or acceptance issues. Therefore, before signing and submitting Form I-864, you should verify the Edition Date at the bottom of the form pages rather than using a form downloaded previously.

Notable update: USCIS may request information from credit reporting agencies

A key modification in the new version is a provision allowing USCIS to request information from one or more consumer reporting agencies to assist in evaluating the sponsor’s financial capability.

USCIS also notes that if a sponsor currently has a credit freeze or security freeze in place, this may affect the agency’s ability to access certain necessary information required to assess the application.

This does not mean that every sponsor will automatically undergo a credit check or that an application will be denied if a credit freeze is active. However, this is a notable update that sponsors should be aware of when preparing their filings.

I-864A and I-864EZ updated as well

In addition to Form I-864, related financial sponsorship forms, including Form I-864A (Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member) and Form I-864EZ, have also been updated. Accordingly, if your filing involves these supplementary forms, you should ensure you are using the latest editions before completing your application package.

What should individuals preparing their filings keep in mind?

If you are preparing a family-based immigration case or an adjustment of status application that requires Form I-864, you should:

• Check the Edition Date of Form I-864 before signing.
• Avoid reusing older forms previously downloaded or prepared if that edition is no longer accepted by USCIS.
• Verify Form I-864A and Form I-864EZ as well, if applicable to your case.
• Carefully review income details, household size, and supporting financial documentation prior to submission.
• Pay special attention to the new provisions regarding USCIS’s authority to request information from consumer reporting agencies.

Form I-864 is not merely a financial questionnaire. It is a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the government on behalf of the sponsored immigrant, creating obligations that may persist for a significant period under applicable law.

A minor error regarding the form version can disrupt the submission process. Therefore, for filings currently under preparation, double-checking for the correct form edition prior to submission is a critical step that should not be overlooked.

Read more at https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/affidavit-of-support?

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Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. Immigration policies and regulations are subject to frequent changes. Please consult an immigration attorney for an evaluation based on your specific circumstances.