Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA Lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ
An Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA is a legally binding contract required for many family-based green card applications. In Gloucester County, this form (Form I-864) obligates a sponsor to financially support an immigrant. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides clear guidance on this complex requirement. Mistakes can delay or deny an application. We help sponsors understand their long-term obligations.
What Is an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA?
The Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA (Immigration and Nationality Act) is a federal requirement, not a state law. It is a contract between a sponsor and the U.S. government, ensuring an immigrant will not become a public charge. The sponsor must meet specific income thresholds based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. This obligation typically lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, can be credited with 40 quarters of work, leaves the U.S. permanently, or dies.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | USCIS Form I-864
Official Resources and Court Information
Understanding the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA requires reviewing official government sources. The form and instructions are published by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For matters that proceed to court, such as enforcement of the support obligation, cases are heard in the federal system or relevant state courts for support issues.
- USCIS Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA (official government form and instructions).
- Superior Court of New Jersey, Gloucester Vicinage (for related family or support matters that may involve state court).
Local Process for Immigration Sponsors in Gloucester County
While immigration is federal, sponsors in Gloucester County must handle local document procurement and financial verification. A key local procedural fact is that income documentation often requires verification through local employers or the New Jersey Department of Treasury. The Superior Court in Woodbury may become involved if a sponsor’s obligation is enforced through family court proceedings.
- Gather Financial Evidence: Collect your most recent federal tax return, W-2s, 1099s, and proof of current employment and income.
- Complete Form I-864: Accurately fill out every section of the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA. Do not leave blanks.
- Calculate Household Size: Correctly determine your household size, including all dependents and the intending immigrant.
- Verify Income Threshold: Ensure your income meets or exceeds 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size.
- Consider a Joint Sponsor: If your income is insufficient, identify a qualifying joint sponsor who can file a separate I-864.
- Submit with the Immigration Package: Include the completed and signed affidavit with the immigrant’s visa or adjustment of status application.
Sponsor Obligations and Consequences
In Gloucester County, signing an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA creates a legally enforceable obligation to support the immigrant at 125% of the federal poverty level.
The obligation is serious and can lead to legal action if the immigrant receives means-tested public benefits. The sponsor’s responsibility is not affected by changes in the family relationship, such as divorce.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Matter
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, our team understands the importance of precise documentation in immigration processes. We apply our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy to help families handle the affidavit of support process, aiming to prevent costly errors that can derail an application.
Our Approach to Your Case
We review your financial situation in detail to ensure you qualify as a sponsor. Our team meticulously prepares the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA and all supporting evidence to meet USCIS standards. We explain the long-term obligations so you can make an informed decision. If your income is insufficient, we advise on the use of assets or finding a qualified joint sponsor.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Gloucester County, including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, Monroe Township, and Mantua. We are accessible via I-295 and Route 55. For an affordable affidavit of support under section 213a of the ina lawyer Gloucester County, contact us to discuss your sponsorship obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Affidavit of Support
Who needs an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA?
It depends. Most family-based immigrants and some employment-based immigrants require a Form I-864 from a petitioner or joint sponsor to prove they will not become a public charge, as per U.S. immigration law.
What income do I need to qualify as a sponsor?
Your household income must be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size. USCIS uses your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from your most recent federal tax return as the primary evidence, along with proof of current employment.
Can I use assets instead of income?
Yes. If your income does not meet the requirement, you can use the cash value of your assets. The assets must be worth five times the difference between your income and the poverty guideline for household size (three times for spouses of U.S. citizens).
How long does my sponsorship obligation last?
The obligation ends when the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, has earned 40 quarters of work credit, ceases to hold lawful permanent resident status and leaves the U.S., or passes away. It is a long-term, legally enforceable contract.
What if I live in Gloucester County but my income is too low?
You may need a joint sponsor. A joint sponsor must also be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, meet the income requirements independently, and file their own Form I-864. An affidavit of support under section 213a of the ina lawyer near me Gloucester County can help identify a suitable joint sponsor.
Can the immigrant sue me for support?
Yes. The immigrant can sue you to enforce the support obligation. Additionally, if the immigrant receives certain means-tested public benefits, the government or the benefit-granting agency can take legal action to recover the amount paid from you, the sponsor.
Related Legal Services in Gloucester County
If you are dealing with an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA, you may also need assistance with: Business Law in Gloucester County, Contract Law in Gloucester County, or Family Law in Gloucester County. For more information on this practice area, visit our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Camden County and Burlington County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Immigration forms and policies change frequently. The information provided is for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for advice specific to your situation.