One of the most common questions we receive in family-based green card cases is:
“How much do I need to earn to sponsor my spouse or family member?”
The answer involves Form I-864, also known as the Affidavit of Support.
This is one of the most misunderstood parts of the immigration process, and one of the most important.
Below, we break it down in plain English.
What Is the I-864?
The I-864 is a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government.
By signing it, the sponsor promises that the immigrant will have adequate financial support and will not become dependent on certain public benefits.
This form is required in most family-based green card cases.
How Much Income Is Required?
In most cases, the sponsor must earn at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on household size.
For 2025 (48 states, including Florida), the minimum income requirements are approximately:
- 2 people: $25,550
- 3 people: $32,275
- 4 people: $39,000
- 5 people: $45,725
- 6 people: $52,450
(Add about $6,725 for each additional person.)
If the sponsor is on active duty in the U.S. military and sponsoring a spouse, the requirement is lower (100% of the poverty guideline).
How Do You Count Household Size?
This is where many people make mistakes.
Household size includes:
- The sponsor
- The sponsor’s spouse (even if not immigrating)
- Dependent children under 21
- Anyone claimed as a dependent on the most recent tax return
- The immigrant being sponsored
- Anyone previously sponsored on an I-864 who received a green card and is still a lawful permanent resident
Important clarifications:
- Do not count someone twice.
If the sponsor’s spouse is the immigrant being sponsored, that person is counted only once. - You only count someone previously sponsored if:
- They actually received their green card, and
- They are still an LPR (not yet a U.S. citizen).
Does USCIS Look at Current Income or Past Income?
Both.
USCIS does look at current income, especially through pay stubs and employer letters.
However, they rely heavily on the most recent federal tax return to see whether the sponsor historically met the requirement.
If last year’s income was below the threshold, even if the sponsor now earns more, additional explanation or a joint sponsor may still be necessary.
This is why careful planning is important before filing.
Can the Immigrant’s Income Be Included?
Sometimes.
The immigrant’s income can only be counted if:
- They are already legally authorized to work in the United States, and
- The income will continue after they receive their green card.
If those conditions are met, their earnings may help meet the financial requirement.
What If the Sponsor Does Not Earn Enough?
There are three possible solutions:
1. Using Assets
Savings, property equity, and certain other assets may be used.
Generally:
- Assets must equal 3 times the income shortfall if sponsoring a spouse or minor child of a U.S. citizen.
- Assets must equal 5 times the shortfall in most other cases.
2. Adding a Household Member (Form I-864A)
If a spouse or adult child lives in the same home and earns income, they may combine their income by signing Form I-864A.
3. Using a Joint Sponsor
If income is still insufficient, a joint sponsor may be used.
A joint sponsor must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Be at least 18 years old
- Live in the United States
- Independently meet the full income requirement
The joint sponsor does not need to be related, but family members are often preferred.
How Long Does the Financial Obligation Last?
The obligation continues until the immigrant:
- Becomes a U.S. citizen
- Earns 40 qualifying quarters of work (about 10 years)
- Permanently leaves the U.S.
- Or passes away
Importantly, divorce does not end the obligation.
This is a serious legal commitment.
What Documents Are Required?
Sponsors (including joint sponsors) typically must provide:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or green card
- Most recent federal tax return (with W-2s or 1099s)
- Letter from employer confirming position and current annual earnings
- Last three pay stubs
Our office carefully reviews these documents before filing to avoid delays or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Final Thoughts
The I-864 is not just paperwork, it is a binding contract.
Understanding how household size is calculated, how income is evaluated, and when a joint sponsor is required can prevent costly delays.
At Heitz Immigration Law, we guide our clients through this process step-by-step to make sure the financial portion of the green card case is handled correctly the first time.
If you are unsure whether you meet the income requirement, schedule a consultation so we can evaluate your situation before filing.
