Affidavit of Support Sample 2025: Complete Guide with Example Template

Introduction: Understanding the Affidavit of Support in 2025

The Affidavit of Support is one of the most important documents in U.S. immigration. It serves as a legally binding contract between a sponsor and the U.S. government, ensuring that an immigrant will have financial support and won’t become a public charge.

Purpose and Importance for Immigration Cases

USCIS requires an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) for most family-based and certain employment-based green card applications. The purpose is to show that the sponsor has enough income or assets to support the immigrant.

Who Needs to Submit an Affidavit of Support

• U.S. citizens sponsoring family members
• Green card holders petitioning for relatives
• Certain employers sponsoring foreign workers

Legal Basis of the Affidavit of Support

USCIS Form I-864

The official Affidavit of Support form is Form I-864, available from USCIS. Sponsors must complete and sign it before submission.

Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) Requirements

The INA Section 213A establishes the legal requirement for this form and specifies the sponsor’s obligations.

Who Can Be a Sponsor in 2025

Eligibility Criteria

A sponsor must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• Have a U.S. domicile

Financial Requirements

Sponsors must meet 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size.

Joint Sponsors and Household Members

If the main sponsor’s income is insufficient, a joint sponsor or household member can help meet the requirement.

2025 Income Requirements for Affidavit of Support

Federal Poverty Guidelines

For 2025, the 125% poverty guideline for a household of four in the continental U.S. is approximately $39,500 (final figures are released annually by HHS).

Adjustments for Alaska and Hawaii

Sponsors living in Alaska or Hawaii have slightly higher income thresholds.

Counting Assets Instead of Income

If income is insufficient, sponsors can count assets like savings, stocks, or property, typically valued at 5 times the shortfall.

How to Fill Out the Affidavit of Support

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Download the latest Form I-864 from USCIS.gov
2. Complete all sections, including personal details, household size, and income information
3. Attach required financial evidence
4. Sign and date the form — USCIS rejects unsigned forms

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving blank fields instead of writing “N/A”
• Using outdated forms
• Submitting incomplete tax documents

Required Documents to Submit with the Affidavit

Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Residency

• U.S. passport copy
• Birth certificate
• Green card copy

Tax Returns and W-2s

Most sponsors must submit their most recent federal tax return and W-2 forms.

Employment Verification

A letter from the employer can strengthen your case.

Affidavit of Support Sample 2025: Example Template

Completed Example with Explanations

Example: John Smith, a U.S. citizen, is sponsoring his wife, Maria, for a green card. His household size is 3, and his 2024 income was $45,000, meeting the 125% poverty guideline.

AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT (Form I-864) — SAMPLE EXCERPT

Sponsor Name: John Smith
Address: 123 Main Street, Chicago, IL 60601
Household Size: 3
Income: $45,000 (meets requirement)
Signature: John Smith — January 15, 2025

Blank Template for Download

You can download the official blank form at: USCIS Form I-864

Special Situations in 2025

Using Assets for Sponsorship

Assets can include savings accounts, property, or vehicles.

Self-Employed Sponsors

Must submit recent tax returns and proof of ongoing business income.

Sponsors Living Abroad

Must show intent to return to the U.S. and maintain domicile.

Legal Obligations of Sponsors

Duration of Support Obligation

The obligation lasts until the immigrant:

• Becomes a U.S. citizen
• Works 40 quarters (about 10 years) in the U.S.
• Leaves the U.S. permanently
• Dies

When the Obligation Ends

The sponsor’s responsibility does not end with divorce.

Enforcement of the Contract

Immigrants can sue sponsors for financial support if necessary.

Changes in Affidavit of Support Rules for 2025

New Income Threshold Updates

Poverty guideline adjustments for inflation.

Stricter Documentation Requirements

Sponsors may need to provide bank statements and pay stubs in addition to tax returns.

Digital Filing and Online Submission

Some USCIS forms, including the I-864, can now be filed online in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions on Affidavit of Support

1. Can a friend be a sponsor?
No, only U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a qualifying relationship.

2. What happens if my income is below the guideline?
You can use a joint sponsor or assets.

3. Do I need to submit tax returns for multiple years?
Usually just the most recent, but additional years may be requested.

4. Is the Affidavit of Support legally enforceable?
Yes, it is a binding contract with the U.S. government.

5. Can I withdraw my Affidavit of Support after approval?
Only before the immigrant becomes a permanent resident.

Conclusion: Preparing a Strong Affidavit of Support in 2025

The Affidavit of Support Sample 2025 is more than just a form — it’s a binding legal commitment. By understanding the rules, meeting income requirements, and submitting complete documentation, you can avoid delays and ensure your immigration petition moves forward smoothly. Always use the latest USCIS forms and consider legal assistance for complex cases.