OMG Do I really need this...?

[PurpleSky 19]

Do I really need to have a bank account to ensure that the financial part of the FH's interview goes well? I don't have an account because I decided to close my accounts when I was basically unemployed for the last couple years. I've just recently started a job and have Direct Deposit sent to my prepaid credit card...so I haven't had a need for an actual bank account per se. Will I need to open one or will my pay stubs and letter of employment suffice?

THANKS!!

NOTE: We haven't received the NOA2 yet so there is still time if I do need to open one. (I just don't like banks. So I'll only open it if absolutely necessary).

[Audy_Rob 26]

No it is not absolutely necessary although you might want to start thinking about it because after you bring your fiance(e) here you will need to show a co-mingling of finances in many ways. Bank accounts are one way.

What matters for the Affidavit of Support (I-134) is current income for the year 2010 and/or income in the preceeding one to three years.

Different Embassies and even COs at the Embassies might have differing opinions. They will want to see an overall total picture of financial stability. If your provable income now by pay stubs and letter of employment is sufficient, then you only need one year of tax returns or transcripts. If less than solid you might want to present three years of tax returns or transcripts.

Since you have had a few years of unemployment, hopefully you can demonstrate a sufficient current income.

Good luck.

[canadian_wife 1,829]

NOTE: We haven't received the NOA2 yet so there is still time if I do need to open one. (I just don't like banks. So I'll only open it if absolutely necessary).

You just filed, you're a few months away from your NOA2

Good luck

Audy_Rob has great advice for you

[PurpleSky 19]

No it is not absolutely necessary although you might want to start thinking about it because after you bring your fiance(e) here you will need to show a co-mingling of finances in many ways. Bank accounts are one way.

What matters for the Affidavit of Support (I-134) is current income for the year 2010 and/or income in the preceeding one to three years.

Different Embassies and even COs at the Embassies might have differing opinions. They will want to see an overall total picture of financial stability. If your provable income now by pay stubs and letter of employment is sufficient, then you only need one year of tax returns or transcripts. If less than solid you might want to present three years of tax returns or transcripts.

Since you have had a few years of unemployment, hopefully you can demonstrate a sufficient current income.

Good luck.

You just filed, you're a few months away from your NOA2

Good luck

Audy_Rob has great advice for you

Thanks ya'll! I know I'm still basically at the beginning I just like to be prepared especially considering FH is Nigerian but living in Gambia, plus he's my cousin's brother in law. So I want to make this as smooth a process as I can on my end by having my little duckies lined up.