Simplifying Naturalization: How To Save Money On Your Citizenship Application
Applying for U.S. citizenship typically costs $760 for paper filing or $710 online, but USCIS offers both fee waivers and reduced fees for eligible applicants who find these costs challenging.
Let's explore your options for financial assistance and how to qualify.
New Concept: Fee Waivers
A fee waiver completely removes the application fee from your application for U.S. citizenship.
To qualify for a fee waiver, you must demonstrate that you meet at least one of these criteria:
- Financial Hardship: Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Receipt of Means-Tested Benefits: You currently receive a government benefit based on income, such as:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Food Stamps (SNAP)
- Section 8 Housing
- Recent Financial Hardship: You can demonstrate a financial hardship due to special circumstances, such as unexpected medical expenses or job loss. This is a more difficult requirement to meet and requires more documentation to prove.
New Concept: Fee Reductions
Even if you don't qualify for the complete fee waiver, USCIS offers a reduced fee program that allows eligible applicants to pay a lower fee of $380 instead of the full filing fee ($710-760).
To qualify for the reduced fee:
- Your documented annual household income must be less than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see the table below)
- You must clearly demonstrate your eligibility through supporting documentation
Important Concept: Household Size
The household size is the number of family members living in your home. This includes you, your spouse, your parents, siblings, and any children who live with you. If you have a roommate, they are not included in your household size.
USCIS Fee Waiver and Reduced Fee Income Guidelines (2024)
| Household Size | You can file for free if you make less than: | You can file for a reduced fee if you make less than: |
|---|---|---|
| Just you | $22,590 | $60,240 |
| 2 people | $30,660 | $81,760 |
| 3 people | $38,730 | $103,280 |
| 4 people | $46,800 | $124,800 |
| 5 people | $54,870 | $146,320 |
| 6 people | $62,940 | $167,840 |
| 7 people | $71,010 | $189,360 |
| 8 people | $79,080 | $210,880 |
Examples: Meeting Fee Waiver Eligibility
The Low-Income Applicant
Miguel's family of four has an annual income of $35,000, which falls below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. He qualifies by submitting tax returns.
The Benefits Recipient
Sarah receives Medicaid and SNAP benefits. She easily qualifies for a fee waiver by providing copies of her benefit award letters.
Examples: Fee Reduction vs. Fee Waiver
The Moderate-Income Applicant
Jamie lives with her husband and mother, who does not work. Their total household income is $95,000 - this is above 150% but below 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. While she doesn't qualify for a complete fee waiver, she is eligible for the reduced fee of $380.
Important! Things To Remember Before You Apply
You cannot request both a reduced fee and a fee waiver. You must choose the one that best fits your situation.
Online filing is not available when seeking a fee reduction or waiver. You must mail a paper application to USCIS.
How to Apply for a Fee Waiver
First You need to download and complete Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver.
Next, Gather supporting documentation:
- Tax returns, pay stubs, and W-2s for income-based applications
- Proof of means-tested benefits (award letters, agency statements)
- Documentation of special circumstances for hardship cases
Finally,You need to mail your application and supporting documents to USCIS.
How to Apply for a Fee Reduction
First, Complete the reduced fee request section of Form N-400.
Then, Include supporting documentation (Tax returns, pay stubs, and W-2s) with your application.
What If Your Fee Waiver Is Denied?
If USCIS denies your fee waiver request, you have a few options:
- Submit a new fee waiver request with additional evidence
- Apply for the reduced fee option instead if you meet those income guidelines
- You can always file again and pay the full fee
Remember, applying for a fee waiver doesn't negatively impact your naturalization application. USCIS evaluates your eligibility for citizenship separately from your need for a fee waiver. The key is to be honest about your circumstances and provide accurate, complete documentation to support your request.