Healthcare costs as related to I-864

[Jonathan and Tina 4]

Hi folks. This is a pretty important question for us. How much are the sponsor's healthcare costs taken into account when determining their ability to be a sponsor, as in the case of the I-864 or even the I-134? Is it something as black and white as 'income minus healthcare equals applicable income', or is it not taken into account, or somewhere between?

Many thanks for any help given.

[Nich-Nick 3,354]

Hi folks. This is a pretty important question for us. How much are the sponsor's healthcare costs taken into account when determining their ability to be a sponsor, as in the case of the I-864 or even the I-134? Is it something as black and white as 'income minus healthcare equals applicable income', or is it not taken into account, or somewhere between?

Many thanks for any help given.

It is total income. On a pay check, it is gross before federal tax, Medicare, social security, or health insurance (if applicable) are deducted. They aren't looking for take home pay, but the gross salary. That's why I don't see how bank statements are useful to show income deposits because only what's left after deductions goes in the bank. Statements would be useful to show a big savings but not monthly income.

If looking on 2014 tax return, it is Line 22 if form 1040 was filed. If current paychecks are more than last year's tax return, for example a raise since last year, then they will consider the current income if you submit proof of current.

Edited September 13, 2015 by Nich-Nick

[Jonathan and Tina 4]

Okay. Thank you. So just to clarify (sorry, I'm just an 'absolutely sure' type of person),

1. whatever the figure for healthcare/insurance might be, it doesn't mean anything at all for any immigration purposes. Not even considered.

2. it almost doesn't matter what's on your last year's tax return (within reason) if the current year's income is better and you can prove it with pay stubs etc?

[Nich-Nick 3,354]

Okay. Thank you. So just to clarify (sorry, I'm just an 'absolutely sure' type of person),

1. whatever the figure for healthcare/insurance might be, it doesn't mean anything at all for any immigration purposes. Not even considered.

2. it almost doesn't matter what's on your last year's tax return (within reason) if the current year's income is better and you can prove it with pay stubs etc?

That is correct. The tax return is required, but the optional things like pay stubs and employer letter will prove her CURRENT income.