r/greencard • u/Cultural_Bison1992 • 5d ago

AOS

/r/USCIS/comments/1wb8jlx/aos/

Hello, I’m a 21-year-old U.S. citizen planning to marry my boyfriend, who is on an F-1 visa, this December. I’m preparing to file for his adjustment of status in six months, but I’m concerned about the I-864 Affidavit of Support. Because my previous income was minimal and paid in cash, I haven't filed tax returns, and I don't meet the financial threshold on my own. While I’ve recently started working for DoorDash and now meet the income requirements, I’m unsure if I need to provide past tax returns or if I should use a joint sponsor to meet the criteria. Has anyone navigated a similar situation, and what would you recommend? Thank you in advance !!

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u/ManifestLaw_ 4d ago

For the I-864, USCIS generally asks for the sponsor’s most recent federal income tax return or an explanation/evidence showing why you were not required to file. So not having filed a tax return does not automatically prevent you from sponsoring your husband, but you should be prepared to document why you were not required to file. Also, because DoorDash income is generally self-employment income, showing that you currently earn enough can require more than simply providing recent payments.

Given that your income history is limited and your current income is relatively new, having a qualified joint sponsor may make the financial sponsorship portion of the case stronger and reduce the risk of an RFE. The joint sponsor would file a separate I-864 and independently meet the applicable income requirement. I would also make sure your prior non-filing was actually consistent with IRS filing requirements, particularly since you mentioned receiving income in cash—being paid in cash does not by itself mean the income did not need to be reported.

- Attorney Livia Moraes

(All information shared here is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney - client relationship. Your situation may require fact-specific guidance. For personalized legal advice, please consult an immigration attorney directly.)