What are my duties and responsibilities as a Sponsor signing the Form I-864?

In a nutshell, you are financially responsible for the intending immigrant / AOS applicant.

This Form I-864 is a legally binding document between you and the U.S. Government. This document serves as proof that the U.S. government may consider your income and assets to be available for the support of the intending immigrant / AOS applicant.

• If you don’t want to sign the I-864, you cannot be made to do so.
• If you do become a Sponsor, until your obligations are terminated you must:
  • Provide the intending immigrant any support necessary to maintain him/her at a household income of at least 125% of the Poverty Guidelines.
  • Notify change of address within 30 days of moving with Form I-865. Or you may be fined.
• Not providing sufficient support to the person who became permanent resident you signed for makes them legally able to sue you for this support.

Also read: When will my obligations as a Sponsor on I-864, Affidavit of Support end?

Source:

• USCIS.gov – Form I-864 Affidavit of Support, Part 8. Sponsor’s Contract, page 7