Form 942
Navigating the I-942 Form: A Guide to Fee Reduction for Naturalization (N-400)
Understanding Form I-942
The I-942 form serves as the vehicle for requesting a reduced filing fee when applying for Naturalization (N-400). This reduction is available to applicants whose documented annual household income falls between 150 to 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time of filing. The Income Guidelines for Reduced Fees, including the Federal Poverty Guidelines, can be found in Form I-942P.
Family Applications on Form I-942
Families with multiple members concurrently applying for Naturalization can consolidate their fee reduction requests on a single Form I-942. It is imperative to submit the Form I-942 simultaneously with the completed N-400 form and cannot be filed before or after the N-400. The form must be completed in English, with English translations provided for any non-English documentation.
Information Required for Form I-942
Applicants must provide the following information on Form I-942:
- Documented household income (for each household member)
- Employment status
- Applicant’s annual income
- Additional income or financial support
- Persons counted in the household
- Signature
It’s crucial to note that a Form I-942 reduced fee application differs from a fee waiver request (Form I-912). If an applicant’s income is too low for the I-942 reduced fee, they may explore a fee waiver instead.
Citizenship Costs: Breakdown
The total USCIS fee for filing U.S. citizenship is $725, comprising a $640 filing fee and an $85 biometrics appointment fee. Individuals with low incomes may be eligible for a fee reduction or waiver, and those aged 75 or older are exempt from the biometrics fee. Active U.S. armed forces members do not incur any fees.
If approved for a reduced fee, the cost is $405, encompassing the $320 reduced fee and the $85 biometrics fee.
Naturalization Fee Waiver Criteria
Applicants may qualify for a fee waiver if their family income is below or equal to 150 percent of the U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines. USCIS considers three categories when evaluating fee waiver requests:
- Receipt of a means-tested benefit by the applicant or a qualified household member.
- Demonstration of household income at or below the 150 percent poverty guidelines level.
- Experience of financial hardship, such as unexpected medical bills or emergencies, preventing payment of the filing fee.
Submission of supporting documents is necessary to substantiate these circumstances.
Important Note: Seek Legal Guidance
For a smoother citizenship application process, it is highly recommended that individuals seeking citizenship consult with an immigration attorney. Their expertise can provide valuable guidance throughout the intricate procedures involved.