What Financial Evidence Should Be Submitted With Form I-612?
The regulation requires pertinent information regarding the applicant's and spouse's income and savings. A strong record also documents recurring expenses, debts, insurance, childcare, medical costs, and the financial effect of maintaining one or two households.
Income and savings information is specifically required
Both the regulation and current Form I-612 materials direct hardship applicants to provide pertinent financial information concerning income and savings.
Document income objectively
Useful evidence may include tax transcripts or returns, W-2s, 1099s, pay statements, employment verification, bank records, and evidence of health or other employment benefits.
Document actual household obligations
Mortgage or rent, student loans, vehicle payments, insurance, medical expenses, therapy, childcare, tuition, support obligations, utilities, and other substantial recurring expenses can help show the family's actual financial structure.
Show the effect of each scenario
The separation analysis may involve supporting two households or losing the J-1's income. Relocation may involve loss of the qualifying spouse's employment, benefits, retirement contributions, professional licensing, or ability to service U.S. debt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to provide income information?
Yes. Pertinent income and savings information is expressly required in a hardship application.
Are tax returns enough by themselves?
Not always. Current income, debts, expenses, benefits, and scenario-specific financial consequences may require additional documentation.
Can maintaining two households be relevant?
Yes, when supported by realistic evidence showing the additional expenses and the family's ability or inability to absorb them.
Need Help With a J-1 Waiver?
The Messersmith Law Firm represents J-1 exchange visitors, physicians, researchers, professionals, and families in complex INA §212(e) matters.
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