USCIS Requires New Form I-864 Edition Starting August 31, 2026

USCIS has published a new edition of Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA, dated August 24, 2026. The new edition is required beginning August 31, 2026, with no grace period. Any Form I-864 submitted using an outdated edition may be rejected.

What Sponsors Need to Know

The updated Form I-864 includes expanded authorization for USCIS to obtain and verify information relevant to the sponsor's financial circumstances. Sponsors should review the new form and its instructions carefully before signing and submitting it.

This is particularly important for sponsors who have credit freezes or locks with consumer reporting agencies. If USCIS is unable to access information needed to verify the sponsor's financial eligibility, the case could face additional processing delays or a Request for Evidence.

Sponsors should consider reviewing their credit-report settings with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion before filing if a freeze or lock is in place. If sponsors do not want to release the credit freeze or lock before filing the application, they must carefully monitor their mail or USCIS online accounts regularly, as USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence letter to request that the sponsor's credit freeze or lock be released. 

No Grace Period for the New Edition

For Form I-864 submissions made on or after August 31, 2026, use the 08/24/26 edition. Do not rely on older editions, including the previous 10/17/24 edition.

The related forms I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member, and I-864EZ, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA, have also been updated.

Other Form Changes Coming Soon

USCIS has also announced upcoming edition changes for other commonly used immigration forms:

• Form I-539: New edition required beginning September 15, 2026

• Form I-765: New edition required beginning September 15, 2026

• Form I-485: New edition required beginning September 18, 2026

USCIS has stated that outdated editions will be rejected without a grace period. Applicants should verify the current edition of each form immediately before filing.

What You Should Do

If you are preparing an immigration filing that requires Form I-864, make sure you are using the 08/24/26 edition and the most current supporting documents. Sponsors with credit freezes should address them before filing to reduce the risk of verification problems or delays.

Because an incorrect form edition can result in rejection, carefully check all forms before submitting your application. Ensure that your application will be delivered (if submitting by mail) or submitted (if filing online) before the date that the new edition of the form(s) goes into effect. 

If you have questions about the new Form I-864 requirements or need help preparing an immigration filing, contact Tran Flores Law at (512) 894-9984 for a consultation.