Copies of Documents I-130

[Karen2021 3]

Are there any documents that I will include in the I-130 that I should have photocopies of to include again in future steps of the application process?

[Crazy Cat 41,851]

Keep copies of everything.......USCIS has been known to lose things......and yes, you might need copies of some documents again.

[Redro 4,611]

34 minutes ago, Karen2021 said:

Are there any documents that I will include in the I-130 that I should have photocopies of to include again in future steps of the application process?

If you're mailing your package (not filing online)

I would make two photocopies of the entire package (including the paperwork you fill out). So you can refer to it if needed and you know what you sent USCIS. 

If you file online just keep everything up uploaded in a file on your desktop and keep originals safe. 

[Mike E 11,739]

2 hours ago, Karen2021 said:

Are there any documents that I will include in the I-130 that I should have photocopies of to include again in future steps of the application process?

Mail no originals 

 

make two complete copies of that you sent. 
 

[SalishSea 17,829]

4 hours ago, Karen2021 said:

Are there any documents that I will include in the I-130 that I should have photocopies of to include again in future steps of the application process?

You will want a copy of the entire packet.

[pushbrk 12,883]

6 hours ago, Mike E said:

Mail no originals 
 

This is the key answer.  Instructions do not ask only for photocopies of supporting documents.  Retain your originals.  It's also very helpful for each of you to have a full copy of the package, but it does not need to be on paper.   .....I...would keep a paper copy anyway.

[Devarj 45]

If sending online, ensure you print the 130 before sending. I couldn't retrieve the information after sending.

[Sammy.NZ 45]

9 minutes ago, Devarj said:

If sending online, ensure you print the 130 before sending. I couldn't retrieve the information after sending.

I've made the same mistake and now I'm worried... figured if I submitted online I'd still be able to re-access / view the filled out I-130 online after submitting but not the case 

[Devarj 45]

I would print a blank one and fill it out (for your record) while the information is fresh on your mind. You'll want to ensure the information on the 130 match the information when you complete the DS-260. Differences will cause delays.

[Rocio0010 5,579]

1) if you’re filing by mail, make a copy for your own records. Put every copy you keep in a box and label it “USCIS”. 
2) keep the notices they sent you on the same box. 
Keep a copy of everything you sent to USCIS, and keep copies of any notes sent to you by them. I will keep my copies until well after I naturalize. You never know if they are going to lose something and you need to resend.

[pushbrk 12,883]

4 hours ago, pushbrk said:

This is the key answer.  Instructions do not ask only for photocopies of supporting documents.  Retain your originals.  It's also very helpful for each of you to have a full copy of the package, but it does not need to be on paper.   .....I...would keep a paper copy anyway.

Poorly worded.  The instructions only ask for photocopies of supporting documents.