USCIS Shares Best Practices for Filing Forms by Mail

On August 24, 2024, USCIS released a list of its best practices and top tips for filing forms by mail.  These tips are divided into three separate sections: (1) Complete Your Form Accurately; (2) Assemble Your Application, Petition, or Request; and (3) Mail Your Application, Petition, or Request.  Here is a brief summary of these best practices and tips:

Complete Your Form Accurately

1. Sign Your Form:  Make sure you sign where it’s needed. If it’s not signed, we will reject it and send it back to you.
   
2. Use the Current Edition of the Form: Download the latest version of the form from the USCIS website. Fill it out online, print it, and then mail it. If you need help, follow our instructions.
   
3. No Duplicate Submissions: Don’t mail a form if you’ve already submitted it online.
   
4. Write Clearly: If you’re filling out the form by hand, use black ink and write clearly so we can read it easily.
   
5. Check each Form for Details: Make sure the form edition date and page numbers are visible. All pages should be from the same edition. If any pages are missing or from a different edition, we might reject your form.
   
6. Complete All Parts of each Form: Fill out every section of the form unless instructed otherwise. Incomplete forms may be rejected. If you make a mistake, start over with a new form.
   
7. Avoid using Highlighters and Correction Tape: Do not use highlighters, correction fluid, or tape, as our scanners can’t read these.
   
8. Consistent Information: If you are filling out multiple forms, make sure your name, date of birth, and A-Number (if you have one) are the same on each form unless you’ve legally changed them and provided proof.
   
9. Pay the Right Fee: Make sure you pay the correct fee. We will reject forms with incorrect or missing fees. Use our Fee Calculator to find out the right amount.
   
10. Separate Payments for Multiple Forms: If you are submitting several forms, send a separate payment for each one. If one form is rejected, it could affect the others if you don’t pay separately.

Assemble Your Application, Petition, or Request

1. Organize Your Package in the following order:

• Payment: Include a check, money order, or Form G-1450 for credit card payments. If using a check or money order, write the form name and your A-Number on it. For credit card payments, check our webpage for instructions.
  
• Forms:
  • Form G-1145 (if you want email updates).
  • Form G-28 (if you have an attorney or representative).
  • The main form you’re filing.
  • Any extra forms or supplements.

•    Supporting Documents:
  • Include all documents listed in the form instructions.
  • Documents must be in English or have a certified English translation.
  • Copies should be clear and not blurry, faded, or distorted.
    
• Don’t send original documents unless specifically asked. Originals might be destroyed.
  
• If you have a prior filing, provide a copy marked as “COPY” at the top of each page.
  
• Use single-sided 8½ x 11-inch pages.
  
• Do not use digital media, photo albums, or binders.
  
• Write your name on photos or attachments.
  
• Number your pages if there are many, like “page 1 of 11.”
  
• If you forgot to include something, keep it until USCIS asks for it later.

2. Label Your Envelope:

• Write what you’re submitting, like “Original Submission, Form I-485.”
  
• Include the form number, such as “Form I-129.”

3. Preparing Your Packet:

• Don’t use binders or folders that are hard to open.
  
• Avoid heavy-duty staples; use fasteners or clips for bulky items. For USCIS lockbox submissions, you can hole-punch the top. For direct submissions to USCIS service centers, don’t attach documents together.
  
• Use sticky tabs at the bottom of pages to mark attachments for USCIS lockbox submissions. For direct submissions, avoid sticky notes to prevent scanning delays.

4. Handling Multiple Cases:

• If you have more than one case in an envelope, separate them with rubber bands or fasteners.

5. Resubmitting in Response to Requests:

•    Place the request notice on top if resubmitting due to a Request for Evidence.

6. Supporting Appeals or Motions:

•    – Add a cover letter marked “Brief for (Appeal/Motion)” on top of the packet.

7. Premium Processing:

• Submit one Form I-907 with the eligible form (like Form I-140 or I-129).

Mail Your Application, Petition, or Request. 

• Address Your Package Correctly: Use the full address from the USCIS website, including the “Attn:” line. This helps us process and direct your application properly.
  
• Send Your Forms to the Right Address: Use the address on the webpage for the form you’re filing. You can mail your forms using USPS, FedEx, DHL, or UPS.
  
• Keep Proof of Payment: Save a copy of your payment and any tracking number from the courier. This helps you track your package and keep records.
  
• Send Your Forms to the Correct Location: If you send your application to the wrong address, we might reject it and send it back to you. Make sure you mail it to the right place.

To schedule a consultation with U.S. Immigration Lawyer Sean D. Hummel, call (954) 385-3111 or email: sean@hummelaw.com.