Can I pre-fill my N-400 application form before I actually qualify?

[whirlpool 5]

I am just a month away from qualifying to apply for n-400, but I was wondering if I could start filling it out now, rather than on the actual date. 

[Timona 4,208]

Doubt it.  It asks for your "residence since " date right at the door. So based on that, you'll be chucked out. I don't think you can put a future date, even by a few hours. The system won't be like, "Oooo well, I'll just accept his application.  His window opens in 2 days anyway."

 

And make sure you use the online calculator to determine the EXACT early date you can file. Surprisingly,  it may be day or two from what's written on your card. That was my case. I believe USCIS online system goes with the online calculator date

 

Additionally,  I recommend filing a few days inside your window period. This will save you some headaches. There have been cases on VJ of people who filed on the EXACT date their window opened and after months of wait period,  USCIS rejected their application citing "early filing." A fight with USCIS is something I'd not wanna be involved in 

Edited July 1, 2020 by Timona

[xyz12345 260]

1 hour ago, whirlpool said:

I am just a month away from qualifying to apply for n-400, but I was wondering if I could start filling it out now, rather than on the actual date. 

Yes. Just make changes/edits every 30 days or else the system will erase everything.

And yes, same as above -- don't submitted it on the very first day of eligibility.

Edited July 1, 2020 by xyz12345

[BBlueB 35]

Yes, just keep saving the form (at least every week) but not submit it.