USCIS Changes Form I-864, With New Rule Already Applying to Millions of Immigrants

USCIS has begun applying a new version of Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support used to show that an immigrant will have financial backing and will not depend on public benefits.

The agency accepts only the edition dated 08/24/26, effective Aug. 31. The previous version, dated 10/17/24, is no longer accepted, and USCIS has provided no transition period between the two forms.

One of the main changes is a privacy authorization. By signing the new form, a sponsor allows USCIS and the Department of State to request records from consumer-reporting agencies. Authorities can use those records to check credit history and scores while evaluating the sponsor’s financial situation.

The change also affects sponsors who have placed a credit or security freeze on their records. If reporting agencies block access, USCIS may not have the information needed to complete its financial review. Sponsors must respond to requests aimed at temporarily lifting the freeze.

Form I-864 remains a legally binding contract. In general, the sponsor must ensure that the immigrant reaches income equal to at least 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. The threshold can fall to 100% for active-duty Armed Forces or Coast Guard personnel sponsoring a spouse or child. The new edition expires on Oct. 31, 2027. USCIS also warns that mismatched pages, missing sheets, or supporting documents without certified English translations can lead to rejection.