Form 942

What Is a 942 Form?

The I-942 form is used to request a reduced filing fee for the Application for Naturalization (N-400). A reduced fee can be requested if the applicant’s documented annual household income is between 150 to 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time of filing. The Federal Poverty Guidelines can be found in Form I-942P, Income Guidelines for Reduced Fees. 

Multiple members of the same family who are simultaneously applying for Naturalization can also apply for the fee reduction on a single Form 942. The 942 Form must be submitted along with the completed N-400 form (Application for Naturalization). It cannot be submitted before or after the Form N-400. The form must be filled out in English, and English translations provided for any non-English documentation.

Information needed for Form I-942:

• Documented household income (for each household member)

• Employment status

• Applicant’s annual income

• Additional income or financial support

• Persons counted in the household

• Signature

A Form 942 reduced fee application is different than a request for a fee waiver. If a naturalization applicant’s income is too low to qualify for the reduced fee under Form I-942, they may seek a fee waiver instead (Form I-912).

How Much Does It Cost to Get Citizenship?

The total USCIS fee to file for U.S. citizenship is $725—$640 for the filing fee plus an $85 biometrics appointment fee. People with low incomes may be eligible for a fee reduction or waiver, and applicants who are 75 years or older do not have to pay the biometrics fee. Additionally, those honorably serving in the U.S. armed forces pay no fees at all. 

If an applicant is approved for a reduced fee, the cost is $405, which includes the $320 reduced fee and $85 biometrics fee. 

How Can I Get a Naturalization Fee Waived?

If the family income of an applicant is below or equal to 150 percent of the U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines, then he/she may qualify for a waiver of the entire Application for Naturalization fee. USCIS will look at whether an applicant falls into one of three categories when evaluating a fee waiver request:

1. The applicant or a qualified member of the household is receiving a means-tested benefit (income and/or resources determine eligibility and/or the benefit amount).

2. The applicant can demonstrate that the household income is at or below the 150 percent poverty guidelines level.

3. The applicant is experiencing financial hardship, like unexpected medical bills or emergencies, that prevent them from paying the filing fee.

These circumstances must be proved by submitting supporting documents. 

NOTE: We recommend that anyone seeking citizenship consult with an immigration attorney for guidance through the process.