How USCIS Credit Review Affects Green Card Sponsors

Those who financially sponsor a family member for a Green Card will face a new review. USCIS added authorization to consult the sponsor’s credit reports. However, this does not replace traditional income requirements.

What changes with the new Form I-864?

The new edition of the I-864, Affidavit of Support, is dated 08/24/26. USCIS officially published it on August 31.

According to the agency, by signing this affidavit, the sponsor authorizes an additional inquiry. USCIS may request information from consumer reporting agencies about credit reports and scores.

However, this does not mean that every sponsor will automatically receive a credit check. Nor is there a published minimum score that approves or rejects the application.

What is the I-864 and who must file it?

The Form I-864 is not completed by the person seeking the Green Card, but by their financial sponsor. By signing it, that person assumes a legal commitment with the U.S. government.

USCIS requires this form for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens. This includes spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 years old.

It also applies to other categories of family immigration. In some employment-based residency cases, this form may also be required.

The sponsor must meet several basic requirements to be able to sign. Must be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident. Additionally, must be at least 18 years old and live in the country.

Did the minimum income the sponsor must demonstrate change?

No, this update did not modify that requirement. The sponsor must demonstrate family income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Type of sponsor	Minimum income requirement
General sponsor	125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
Active duty military (spouse or child)	100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines

If income does not meet the requirement, other options are available. Assets can be used, resources from household members can be combined, or a co-sponsor can be brought in.

Therefore, the credit inquiry does not replace these traditional income and asset rules.

What happens if the sponsor has their credit report frozen?

This is one of the most important practical details of the update. Many people use a credit freeze to protect themselves from fraud or identity theft.

According to USCIS, if the file is frozen, the agency may not obtain the necessary information. Therefore, this could affect the sufficiency evaluation of the I-864.

The official recommendation is not to lift the freeze preemptively. Instead, it is suggested to respond quickly if USCIS requests to temporarily unfreeze it. Ignoring that request could cause delays in the immigration process.

Does the change also affect co-sponsors?

Yes, the modification is not limited to the main form. USCIS also updated the I-864A and I-864EZ with the same date, 08/24/26.

The I-864A is used when household members contribute additional income or assets. The I-864EZ is a simplified version for certain specific cases.

Therefore, this policy can reach both the primary sponsor and other people. This includes those who financially back the application without being the direct sponsor.

When does it take effect