Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Obligations?
The Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA, is a legally binding contract between a sponsor and the U.S. government to financially support an immigrant. In Bergen County, sponsors must meet strict income requirements or find a joint sponsor; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full guidance on this demanding process to protect your interests and ensure compliance.
Understanding the Form I-864 Affidavit of Support
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) | USCIS Policy Manual
The Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA (Form I-864) is a federally mandated contract, not merely a letter of intent. By signing, you (the sponsor) accept legal responsibility to financially support the intending immigrant until they become a U.S. citizen, can be credited with 40 quarters of work, leave the U.S. permanently, or pass away. This obligation is enforceable by the immigrant or any government agency that provides means-tested public benefits. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on the precise details of immigration law to safeguard clients from unintended long-term liabilities.
Official Resources and Legal Framework
handling the affidavit requires understanding official sources. The requirements are detailed in the USCIS Form I-864 instructions and the USCIS Policy Manual. These .gov resources provide the definitive rules on income calculation, household size, and required evidence. An affidavit of support under section 213a of the ina lawyer Bergen County uses these sources to build a complete and compliant application, addressing common pitfalls like incorrect tax transcript submissions or misunderstanding who counts as a household member.
Bergen County Procedural Requirements and Strategy
For Bergen County residents, preparing the affidavit involves gathering specific local documentation. Your income is proven through Federal tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs. If your income alone does not meet 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size, you must secure assets or a joint sponsor. An affordable affidavit of support under section 213a of the ina lawyer Bergen County can review your options, such as using the value of a home in Bergen County or finding a qualified joint sponsor, to meet the requirement without delay.
- Calculate your total household size, including dependents, the immigrant, and other sponsored individuals.
- Gather proof of current annual income (pay stubs, employer letter) and U.S. Federal tax returns for the last three years.
- Determine if your income meets 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. If not, identify qualifying assets or a joint sponsor.
- Complete every section of Form I-864 accurately. Do not leave any blanks; enter “N/A” or “0” where applicable.
- Assemble the full package with all supporting evidence and submit it to the correct address per the form instructions.
Sponsor Obligations and Potential Repercussions
In Bergen County, failing to meet the obligations of the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA can lead to legal action from the government or the immigrant to recover the cost of means-tested public benefits.
The sponsor’s duty is significant. If the immigrant receives certain means-tested public benefits, the agency providing them can seek reimbursement from you. The immigrant can also sue you to enforce the support obligation. This responsibility continues regardless of changes in your relationship with the immigrant (e.g., divorce). Understanding this binding contract before signing is critical.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Matter
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., was founded in 1997. Our approach to immigration cases is direct and detail-focused. We explain the lasting commitment of the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA clearly, helping sponsors in Bergen County make informed decisions. We prepare applications with attention to the specific evidence requested by USCIS to avoid processing delays.
Contact a Bergen County Immigration Lawyer
If you need to file an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA, clear legal advice is essential. We offer phone consultations to discuss your income, household size, and the best path to a successful application. Contact us to schedule a meeting.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations.
Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA FAQs
What happens if my income drops after I sign the affidavit?
It depends. The obligation is based on your income at the time of signing. A future drop does not automatically void the contract, but it could be a factor in enforcement. You remain legally bound to support the immigrant at the 125% poverty level.
Can I use assets instead of income to qualify?
Yes. If your income is insufficient, you can use the net value of assets (savings, stocks, property) to qualify. The total value of assets must be at least five times the difference between your income and the poverty guideline for your household size.
How long does my sponsorship obligation last?
The obligation typically lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, has worked 40 quarters (roughly 10 years), permanently leaves the United States, or passes away. Divorce or separation does not terminate your responsibility under the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA.
What is the difference between a joint sponsor and a household member?
A joint sponsor must independently meet all income requirements for their own household plus the immigrant. A household member’s income is combined with yours but they do not assume the same full, independent legal obligation. Choosing correctly is important for application success.
Where can I find an affidavit of support under section 213a of the ina lawyer near me Bergen County?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. assists sponsors throughout Bergen County. We offer phone and in-person consultations by appointment to review your financial situation and guide you through the Form I-864 process. Contact us to discuss your case.
Related Information: New Jersey Family-Based Immigration Lawyer | Affidavit of Support Lawyer Passaic County | Bergen County Family Law Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Immigration laws and form requirements change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA.
New Jersey law governs this practice area.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Affidavit of Support under Section Lawyer Hudson County · Affidavit of Support under Section Lawyer Monmouth County.