Fee Waiver Eligibility Checker
Answer the 3 questions below. The calculator uses the official 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Include all income sources: wages, Social Security, unemployment, rental income, etc.
Your Income vs. 2026 Thresholds
| Threshold | Limit for Your Household | Your Income | Status |
|---|
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USCIS Fee Waiver Guide 2026
USCIS fee waivers allow low-income applicants to file immigration forms without paying the government filing fee. Understanding the three ways to qualify can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
3 Ways to Qualify for a Fee Waiver
1. Income Below 150% FPG
Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size. This is the most common basis for a fee waiver.
2. Public Benefit Recipient
You currently receive Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, TANF, or another means-tested federal or state public benefit. Proof of enrollment is required.
3. Financial Hardship
You can demonstrate that you cannot pay the fee due to financial hardship even if you don't meet the income threshold. Evaluated case-by-case.
Forms Eligible for Fee Waiver
| Form | Description | Waivable? |
|---|---|---|
| I-90 | Green Card Renewal | ✓ Yes |
| I-131 | Travel Document / Advance Parole | ✓ Yes |
| I-485 | Adjustment of Status (Green Card) | ✗ No |
| I-751 | Remove Conditions on Residence | ✓ Yes |
| I-765 | Work Permit (EAD) | ✓ Yes |
| N-400 | Naturalization | ✓ Yes |
| N-600 | Certificate of Citizenship | ✓ Yes |
| I-129 / I-140 | H1B / Employment Petitions | ✗ No |
How to File a Fee Waiver
- Download Form I-912 from USCIS.gov/i-912.
- Complete all sections — household size, income, benefit enrollment.
- Gather evidence — tax returns (IRS Form 1040), W-2s, benefit enrollment letters, pay stubs.
- Attach I-912 to your main application — do not include a check or money order.
- Mail or file online — note that fee waiver requests cannot be submitted online for all form types. Check USCIS.gov for current instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my fee waiver is denied?
USCIS will reject your application and return it. You can refile with the full fee or with additional evidence to support the waiver. There is no appeal process for a fee waiver denial; you simply refile.
Can I get a fee waiver for a green card (I-485)?
No. Form I-485 is not eligible for a fee waiver. However, you can request waivers for concurrent forms like I-765 (EAD) and I-131 (Advance Parole). Always verify current eligibility at USCIS.gov.
Does receiving SNAP or Medicaid affect my immigration status?
USCIS may consider certain public benefit use in the public charge determination for green card applicants. Medicaid and SNAP are generally considered in public charge assessments. Consult an attorney before using benefits if you have a pending or upcoming green card application.
Is there a fee waiver for naturalization?
Yes. You can request a full fee waiver (Form I-912) for N-400 if you meet the income or benefit criteria. If your income is between 150% and 400% FPG, you may qualify for the reduced $380 fee using Form I-942 instead.