July '08 filers

[Aubrey 10]

I was wondering if anybody started putting their I-134 together yet? I was going to do it right away, but now I'm thinking that maybe I should wait until we know the interview date. Does anybody know how long I-134 is good for? I've been searching for that information high and low, but the only reference I found on this Forum or elsewhere is that it shouldn't be older than 1 year. However, this is unofficial info and I don't know if we would run into any problems if all my financial paperwork is dated August and the interview takes place in, say, December. Called USCIS customer service and they said they didn't know the answer because my question was 'too specific'.

Since I'm not expecting NOA2 until at least the end of November, I won't start gathering this stuff for awhile. Everything I've read on the board indicates they like the paperwork with the I-134 to be quite recent, such as paystubs up to a few weeks before the interview. I figured I would gather tax documents at the beginning of November, the letters of employment at the end of November, and bank statements and paystubs once I receive NOA2. It takes most people a month or more between NOA2 and the interview date, so that's plenty of time to get those documents.

I'm like you - I like to be ahead of everything on this process. But I don't want to do this stuff twice, either. I'd hold off for a little bit, because the whole point of the I-134 is to show you can support your fiancé at the time of the interview. Outdated documents won't do that.

Hang in there, we'll make it!

[Koakland 0]

I was wondering if anybody started putting their I-134 together yet? I was going to do it right away, but now I'm thinking that maybe I should wait until we know the interview date. Does anybody know how long I-134 is good for? I've been searching for that information high and low, but the only reference I found on this Forum or elsewhere is that it shouldn't be older than 1 year. However, this is unofficial info and I don't know if we would run into any problems if all my financial paperwork is dated August and the interview takes place in, say, December. Called USCIS customer service and they said they didn't know the answer because my question was 'too specific'.

Since I'm not expecting NOA2 until at least the end of November, I won't start gathering this stuff for awhile. Everything I've read on the board indicates they like the paperwork with the I-134 to be quite recent, such as paystubs up to a few weeks before the interview. I figured I would gather tax documents at the beginning of November, the letters of employment at the end of November, and bank statements and paystubs once I receive NOA2. It takes most people a month or more between NOA2 and the interview date, so that's plenty of time to get those documents.

I'm like you - I like to be ahead of everything on this process. But I don't want to do this stuff twice, either. I'd hold off for a little bit, because the whole point of the I-134 is to show you can support your fiancé at the time of the interview. Outdated documents won't do that.

Hang in there, we'll make it!

Agreed. Although I have gathered my tax documents already. I just called the IRS and ordered tax transcripts. They arrived about a week later. Best thing, it's free! Can't hurt to get this early and it made me feel good to do something during this loooooooooong waiting period.

[dillon 6]

I was wondering if anybody started putting their I-134 together yet? I was going to do it right away, but now I'm thinking that maybe I should wait until we know the interview date. Does anybody know how long I-134 is good for? I've been searching for that information high and low, but the only reference I found on this Forum or elsewhere is that it shouldn't be older than 1 year. However, this is unofficial info and I don't know if we would run into any problems if all my financial paperwork is dated August and the interview takes place in, say, December. Called USCIS customer service and they said they didn't know the answer because my question was 'too specific'.

Since I'm not expecting NOA2 until at least the end of November, I won't start gathering this stuff for awhile. Everything I've read on the board indicates they like the paperwork with the I-134 to be quite recent, such as paystubs up to a few weeks before the interview. I figured I would gather tax documents at the beginning of November, the letters of employment at the end of November, and bank statements and paystubs once I receive NOA2. It takes most people a month or more between NOA2 and the interview date, so that's plenty of time to get those documents.

I'm like you - I like to be ahead of everything on this process. But I don't want to do this stuff twice, either. I'd hold off for a little bit, because the whole point of the I-134 is to show you can support your fiancé at the time of the interview. Outdated documents won't do that.

Hang in there, we'll make it!

Agreed. Although I have gathered my tax documents already. I just called the IRS and ordered tax transcripts. They arrived about a week later. Best thing, it's free! Can't hurt to get this early and it made me feel good to do something during this loooooooooong waiting period.

I have my tax document gathered as well. I have started file with all the things that will be needed for the interview. Such as the tax documents, phone bills, pictures etc. I just feel like keepin them in one place will keep me calm once I get my NOA2. Plus like you said it makes me feel good to do something also during the wait. Wish I could do more to keep busy.

[Naglfar 0]

Thanks for your responses, everybody!

Now, when it comes to tax forms, I understand that tax transcripts are not really required and can be substituted with your 1040 form. I don't know if different embassies have different requirements, but it is stated clearly on American Embassy's in Russia site that you can submit "most recent year tax returns (form 1040) or tax transcripts from IRS". My only concern is that I did my taxes online with HR block, so there is a big COPY, DO NOT FILE statement on the form and, obviously, it doesn't have my signature on it since it was done electronically. Also, notice that they only ask for your last year's tax return, although I see a lot of people saying you need last 3. Any thoughts on whether the kind of copy of the tax form that I have would suffice?

[Koakland 0]

Thanks for your responses, everybody!

Now, when it comes to tax forms, I understand that tax transcripts are not really required and can be substituted with your 1040 form. I don't know if different embassies have different requirements, but it is stated clearly on American Embassy's in Russia site that you can submit "most recent year tax returns (form 1040) or tax transcripts from IRS". My only concern is that I did my taxes online with HR block, so there is a big COPY, DO NOT FILE statement on the form and, obviously, it doesn't have my signature on it since it was done electronically. Also, notice that they only ask for your last year's tax return, although I see a lot of people saying you need last 3. Any thoughts on whether the kind of copy of the tax form that I have would suffice?

My understanding is that you only need the most recent tax return but returns or transcripts for the past 3 years is recommended to avoid any RFEs. As for the tax return, I also e-filed my taxes and have the same "DO NOT FILE" written across it but I don't see how this can be a problem. You could just get a tax transcript for 2007 as well.

[Koakland 0]

Thanks for your responses, everybody!

Now, when it comes to tax forms, I understand that tax transcripts are not really required and can be substituted with your 1040 form. I don't know if different embassies have different requirements, but it is stated clearly on American Embassy's in Russia site that you can submit "most recent year tax returns (form 1040) or tax transcripts from IRS". My only concern is that I did my taxes online with HR block, so there is a big COPY, DO NOT FILE statement on the form and, obviously, it doesn't have my signature on it since it was done electronically. Also, notice that they only ask for your last year's tax return, although I see a lot of people saying you need last 3. Any thoughts on whether the kind of copy of the tax form that I have would suffice?

My understanding is that you only need the most recent tax return but returns or transcripts for the past 3 years is recommended to avoid any RFEs. As for the tax return, I also e-filed my taxes and have the same "DO NOT FILE" written across it but I don't see how this can be a problem. You could just get a tax transcript for 2007 as well.

I just reread the instructions on the uscis website and tax returns/transcripts are only required if you are self employed BUT I'll be sending all that info anyway because I don't wany any problems.

[Corinthians 7]

Thanks for your responses, everybody!

Now, when it comes to tax forms, I understand that tax transcripts are not really required and can be substituted with your 1040 form. I don't know if different embassies have different requirements, but it is stated clearly on American Embassy's in Russia site that you can submit "most recent year tax returns (form 1040) or tax transcripts from IRS". My only concern is that I did my taxes online with HR block, so there is a big COPY, DO NOT FILE statement on the form and, obviously, it doesn't have my signature on it since it was done electronically. Also, notice that they only ask for your last year's tax return, although I see a lot of people saying you need last 3. Any thoughts on whether the kind of copy of the tax form that I have would suffice?

I'd just go for the tax transcripts. Why hassle with it when it's free from the IRS and we all have a few months to wait. I kinda think worst case scenario, you don't want a rookie to see the "do not file" or whatever and send you to AP over it. Probably unlikely, but why open the door?

[Aubrey 10]

Here's the form you can use to request free tax transcripts:

http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4506t.pdf

I'd just order them to make it simple and avoid any problems.

[kenny+Ugochi 1]

It's good you guys mentioned about phone bills; what's the best solution for prove of phone bill, i'm with t-mobile and i don't think i see my girl presenting a t-mobile bill at her interview, because we almost never talk direct on my t-mobile, it's $1.64 per minute to Nigeria it's crazy, too expensive, instead, i'm using this VOIP company i found on the website, i can log on my account with them and print my call records and stuff, but they are not a recognized companies like t-mobile, vonage, att........... what do u guys think?

[Koakland 0]

Here's the form you can use to request free tax transcripts:

http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4506t.pdf

I'd just order them to make it simple and avoid any problems.

Instead of turning in a form I just called the IRS -- at 7:30pm at night. I was shocked that they were still answering phone calls that late. Anyhoos, I called, spoke to a nice lady and the transcripts arrived a week or so later. I'm not sure which number I called. It was a few weeks ago but here is the IRS "Contact Us" page: http://www.irs.gov/help/article/0,,id=96730,00.html

(goodness, how to you insert a hyperlink in posts???)

[Naglfar 0]

Yes, Koakland, I have the same attitude when dealing with government - better safe than sorry. They are not very flexible or forgiving, so it's better have something you won't need than vice versa. I think I will be ordering my tax transcripts from IRS shortly.

By the way, believe it or not, but Consular Division at Moscow Embassy proved much more helpful than USCIS Call Center. I e-mailed them and here's their reply "The documents should be for 2007 fiscal year. If they are filed now, it is OK for November – December". So timing is not really that critical, but I'm still going to wait until NOA2 is here. I think you all know how you get extra cautious (paranoid) when dealing with something THIS important.

[dillon 6]

It's good you guys mentioned about phone bills; what's the best solution for prove of phone bill, i'm with t-mobile and i don't think i see my girl presenting a t-mobile bill at her interview, because we almost never talk direct on my t-mobile, it's $1.64 per minute to Nigeria it's crazy, too expensive, instead, i'm using this VOIP company i found on the website, i can log on my account with them and print my call records and stuff, but they are not a recognized companies like t-mobile, vonage, att........... what do u guys think?

As long as you have a call log I don't think they care what company you are using. Just proof of the phone calls.

[kenny+Ugochi 1]

Thanks dillon! we were just lil... worried

[Aubrey 10]

Checking in again, July filers...

How's everyone holding up? I find myself wincing when I look at the calendar - I see the 19th creeping up on me - the day my darling has to go back to Germany. I have to find ways not to think of it. I told him not to tell me he has to use things up and not buy more at the grocery store. I hate the idea that he has to go away again, and we're not sure we can afford another visit after he goes. His family keeps asking if I can make it there for Christmas. I sure hope so!

I've been introducing Andy to American politics and government with all of the political stuff on TV lately. He told his best friend the other day that he knows more about American politics than German now I told him this will prepare him for when he can vote in the 2012 presidential election.

Also, I wanted to ask if any of you were browsing wedding dresses online? I'm trying to find an inexpensive place to order one. I have a couple sites bookmarked, but wondering if anyone else has some, too.

[Terri and Seb 0]

Checking in again, July filers...

How's everyone holding up? I find myself wincing when I look at the calendar - I see the 19th creeping up on me - the day my darling has to go back to Germany. I have to find ways not to think of it. I told him not to tell me he has to use things up and not buy more at the grocery store. I hate the idea that he has to go away again, and we're not sure we can afford another visit after he goes. His family keeps asking if I can make it there for Christmas. I sure hope so!

I've been introducing Andy to American politics and government with all of the political stuff on TV lately. He told his best friend the other day that he knows more about American politics than German now I told him this will prepare him for when he can vote in the 2012 presidential election.

Also, I wanted to ask if any of you were browsing wedding dresses online? I'm trying to find an inexpensive place to order one. I have a couple sites bookmarked, but wondering if anyone else has some, too.

Hang in there! Sebastian left nearly a month ago, but we're holding up okay. I bought a plane ticket to England for New Year's and having a definite date to look forward to is a big help. You're lucky for having so much time together, don't forget that!

As for wedding dresses, Julius Bridal has a few knockoffs that are supposedly really nice. I've been looking at the forums on indiebride.com and they're very helpful too. What kind of dress are you looking for? Houseofbrides.com also seems fairly popular and very reputable.