N-400 "Instructions for Application" vs M-477 "Checklist"...

[SaharaSunset 165]

Does anyone know why the information about what is required evidence differs between the "M-477" checklist and the N-400 Instruction for Application sheet? 

 

The "Instructions for Application" clearly states that you should "Bring the following items to your interview if you are applying for naturalization on the basis of your marriage to a U.S. citizen" And then proceeds to list (and I quote): (1) Evidence of spouse's citizenship, (2) Evidence of the termination of all your prior marriages; and (3) Evidence that you and your spouse have lived in marital union for at least 3 years at the time you file your Form N-400. Such evidence may include: (a) Joint bank and credit card statements; (b) Leases or mortgages; (c) Birth certificates of children; (d) Insurance policies; and (e) Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-certified copies of the income tax forms that you and your spouse filed for the past 3 years (or an IRS tax return transcript for the last 3 years).

 

The "Checklist" lists the same documents but states that you should "Send copies of the following items" and then lists what to "send" if you are applying on the basis of marriage. 

 

So which is it? Send it in - or take it to the interview.  I know it might seem like "well why not just send it, since you have to eventually have it anyway"?  But sending those documents requires a fair amount of gathering work before would submit our application (which is ready to go right now, minus those additional evidences).   Anyway, we'll survive - but its frustrating to not have clear info all around. 

 

[Angiemed 1]

Hello SaharaSunset,

I am about to start filling out my N-400 application (marriage based). I am a little confused with the N-400 Instructions vs.  M-477 checklist.

 

Which one should I follow?

 

Please advise.

 

Thanks,

Angie.