If you’ve worked in the U.S. with valid authorization and earned 40 Social Security credits, you may not need a financial sponsor for your green card. Here’s how to prove it.

Submitting Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, may seem straightforward, but even small mistakes can cause serious delays—or even a denial. From filing taxes under the wrong status, to failing to provide updated pay stubs, to not showing enough proof of self-employment income, these errors are more common than most applicants realize. Knowing what to avoid can save you months of waiting and protect your green card case.

Struggling to meet the income requirements for the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) doesn’t mean your green card case is over. USCIS offers several options that can help you qualify, including adding a joint sponsor, using the applicant’s income, or counting certain assets. Knowing which strategy fits your situation can make the difference between an approval and a costly delay.