I-134 Child support as income?

[psiprez 3]

I've done a search, and read through topics, but can't find an answer. Seems like anytime this has been asked, it has been ignored. So here goes...

Do child support payments received by the petitioner count as income for the I-134?

If so, how does one report that on the form?

Or have I completely missed reading about it in the form instructions somewhere?

Here in NJ, if you choose to include support payments, they DO count when filling out a financial form (like a rental or credit application, for example). But it is up to the individual if they want to divulge that they receive support payments and have them included in their total income (to avoid a perceived 'stigma' about receiveing support payments... go figure). I have no idea if this is true nationwide, or with the USCIS.

To report it on the I-134, I would guess you would include it in your annual income amount, and attach a copy of the court order specifying the amount, along with bank statements showing the amount has been deposited into your account consistently for the past year. It will also show up as non-taxable income on my tax returns for 2007 and 2008.

Any ideas??

[chispas 0]

I've done a search, and read through topics, but can't find an answer. Seems like anytime this has been asked, it has been ignored. So here goes...

Do child support payments received by the petitioner count as income for the I-134?

If so, how does one report that on the form?

Or have I completely missed reading about it in the form instructions somewhere?

Here in NJ, if you choose to include support payments, they DO count when filling out a financial form (like a rental or credit application, for example). But it is up to the individual if they want to divulge that they receive support payments and have them included in their total income (to avoid a perceived 'stigma' about receiveing support payments... go figure). I have no idea if this is true nationwide, or with the USCIS.

To report it on the I-134, I would guess you would include it in your annual income amount, and attach a copy of the court order specifying the amount, along with bank statements showing the amount has been deposited into your account consistently for the past year. It will also show up as non-taxable income on my tax returns for 2007 and 2008.

Any ideas??

You may add it as "other" income. It was my understanding that child support is just that child and should not be used to show that you can support another person besides what that child needs. I can understand the for rental and other areas that might benefit the child directly that you could disclose this.

[rebeccajo 14]

psiprez -

Yes you can count it and you would do so just as you described.

chispas -

Child support is indeed awarded to support the child. For DOS/USCIS purposes, the child is included in the household size. Therefore it only makes sense that this income is 'allowed'.

[psiprez 3]

Oh, thank you!!

*exhales*