Proof of Income for I-134F

[mmlz 6]

Yet another question. Thank goodness for VJ!

According to the instruction sheet for the I134-F, you only need to submit a letter from your employer to verify income, not pay stubs or tax transcripts. My gross salary is several thousand dollars higher than the amount needed to qualify according to the 2011 poverty guidelines. The letter from my employer will state this salary. I have been with my new employer since last summer but, was laid off for 4 months in spring of 2011.

My previous years tax transcripts show a decline in income from 2008 through 2011 due to a pay cut from my previous employer (a consequence of the bad economy) and the 4 months unemployment in 2011. In 2011 my adjusted gross income was actually a little under the poverty level requirement due to being on unemployment for 1/3 of the year. Also, my actual gross salary has always been several thousand dollars higher than my adjusted gross income on my W2's. I think that is the case for everyone. I assume they are aware of this.

Should I write up an explanation for the decline in income? Should we submit only the letter from employer and pay stubs, but have the transcripts there if they ask for them along with the explanation? I also have several thousand dollars in savings and am getting a letter from my financial institution as requested in the form instructions.

[max+patricia 24]

Current and ongoing income is most important. A letter from your employer, a few pay stubs, your most recent tax return or transcript - you're good. Three years of taxes is asked for specifically at some consulates since they can help prove the likeliness of ongoing financial stability. However, they're not the determining factor. Many people have had $0 income in one or more past years before sponsoring and were approved without issue showing their CURRENT income was sufficient.

Consulates can vary depending what they want. Penguin_ie can probably give you a specific answer about what Ireland prefers, although I can't imagine they're that tough. More than anything though, you should be fine if your current income is sufficient.

[mmlz 6]

The information that you provided is very reassuring, thanks!!