Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA Lawyer in Ocean County, NJ
An Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA is a legally binding contract where a sponsor agrees to financially support an immigrant. In Ocean County, NJ, handling this requirement demands precise legal understanding to avoid future liability. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides clear guidance on sponsor obligations, income requirements, and enforcement under federal law.
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 contract, Form I-864, required for most family-based immigration petitions. By signing, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsor accepts legal responsibility to financially support the intending immigrant, ensuring they will not become a public charge. This obligation is enforceable by the sponsored immigrant, any government agency that provides means-tested benefits, and can last 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, Ocean Vicinage | USCIS.gov
Official Legal Resources
For the official federal regulations, review USCIS Form I-864 instructions. The Ocean County Superior Court website provides information on civil enforcement proceedings that may arise from this contract.
Key Considerations for Sponsors in Ocean County
Sponsoring an immigrant in Ocean County involves meeting specific income thresholds, which are tied to the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Your household size for calculation includes yourself, dependents, the sponsored immigrant, and any other individuals for whom you have signed previous I-864s. If your income alone is insufficient, you may use assets or have a joint sponsor. Crucially, this contract survives divorce; a sponsor cannot cancel their obligation simply because the marital relationship ends.
- Determine Eligibility: Calculate if your current annual income meets 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size.
- Gather Documentation: Collect recent tax returns, W-2s, proof of current employment, and evidence of assets if needed.
- Complete Form I-864: Accurately fill out every section of the affidavit, ensuring all household member and income information is correct.
- Submit with Immigration Petition: File the signed, notarized affidavit with the corresponding immigrant visa or adjustment of status application to USCIS.
- Maintain Records: Keep copies of all submitted documents and any notices from USCIS or the sponsored immigrant regarding support.
Sponsor Obligations and Potential Repercussions
In Ocean County, failure to meet the obligations of an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA can lead to civil lawsuits for financial support and reimbursement of government benefits.
| Sponsor Requirement | Legal Standard | Financial Consequence | Enforcement Mechanism |
|---|---|---|---|
| Income Threshold | 125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines | Petition denial if unmet | USCIS adjudication |
| Providing Support | Maintain sponsored immigrant at 125% of poverty level | Court-ordered support payments | Civil lawsuit in Superior Court |
| Reimbursement | Repayment for means-tested public benefits used | Judgment for amount of benefits | Suit by state/federal agency |
| Duration of Obligation | Until termination event occurs (e.g., naturalization) | Long-term financial liability | Contract law enforcement |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Matter
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex immigration contracts like the Affidavit of Support. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results. We understand that an affordable Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA lawyer Ocean County must provide value by preventing costly future liabilities for sponsors.
Legal Guidance for Ocean County Residents
While specific local case results for this immigration form are not separately tracked, our firm’s extensive background in contractual and family law provides a strong foundation for advising sponsors. We help clients in Toms River, Lakewood, and Brick Township fully understand the binding nature of the I-864 before they sign.
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.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Ocean County courts. We are your local affidavit of support under section 213a of the ina lawyer near me Ocean County, accessible via the Garden State Parkway and Route 37. We provide representation for residents in Toms River, Lakewood, Brick Township, Jackson Township, Lacey, Stafford, and throughout Ocean County. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A in NJ
Can I withdraw an Affidavit of Support after it is submitted?
No. Once USCIS receives the signed I-864 with an immigration application, it is a legally binding contract. You cannot withdraw it simply because your relationship with the immigrant has changed.
Does divorce end my obligation under the Affidavit of Support?
No. The obligation under Section 213A of the INA is independent of the marital relationship. Divorce does not terminate your legal responsibility to provide financial support.
What happens if my income drops after signing the affidavit?
It depends. A change in circumstances may be considered if enforcement action is taken against you, but it does not automatically void the contract. You remain obligated, and the court will examine your current ability to pay if sued for support.
Who can sue me to enforce the Affidavit of Support?
Three parties can sue: the sponsored immigrant seeking support, any state agency that provided means-tested benefits, or the federal government. Enforcement lawsuits are typically filed in civil court.
How long does the Affidavit of Support obligation last?
The obligation typically lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, works 40 qualifying quarters (about 10 years), permanently leaves the United States, or passes away.
Related Legal Services in Ocean County
If you require assistance with other matters, our firm also handles business law in Ocean County, contract disputes, and federal criminal defense. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Atlantic County and Burlington County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Immigration laws and USCIS policies 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.