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How to Apply for a Fee Waiver
Send “Naturalization Fee Waiver Request” like this one in the same envelope with your N-400 application. Write “Fee Waiver Request” on the outside of the envelope, and on each document that is part of the fee waiver request.
Note: There is no official USCIS fee waiver form--you have to write it yourself.
You must include proof that:
- you qualify for a "federal means-tested benefit," such as S.S.I, food stamps, Medicaid or TANF. (send a copy of any notice from the agency that shows that you qualified to receive the benefit within the last 6 months)
- your household income for the last tax year was below the poverty guidelines on the bottom of this page (send a copy of your latest income tax return, W-2 form, and/or a letter from your employer)
NOTE: other situations may qualify you for a waiver. (Check with Lynne in the ESL Office for more information.)
Keep in mind:
- If your N-400 application shows that your have a husband, wife, or adult children living at the same household, you also need proof that these family members cannot pay the fee for you.
- If your request for a waiver is denied, the whole application package will be sent back to you, and you must start over again.
To request a letter from SSI: (to verify that you receive benefits):
- Call 1-800-772-1213 Press 1 (if you want a message in English), then 3 for a menu of options. Press 2 for the benefit verification service. They will ask for your social security number and name, and to spell the last name. The letter should arrive in 2-4 weeks.
- Or go to Request A Proof of Income Letter and make the request on line.
Please keep in mind when viewing these instructions that immigration procedures are complex and subject to change. We have tried to provide general information in simple terms, however, we are not immigration law experts. Check with the US Citizenship & Immigration Service, immigrant advocacy groups/attornies, or your local congressional office for help concerning existing naturalization procedures, as well as concerns about future changes in the process.
2008 HHS Poverty Guidelines
| Size of Family Unit | Poverty Guidline |
|---|---|
| 1 | $10,400 |
| 2 | $14,000 |
| 3 | $17,600 |
| 4 | $21,200 |
| 5 | $24,800 |
| 6 | $28,400 |
| 7 | $32,000 |
| 8 | $35,600 |
| For each additional person add $3,600 | |