If you’re preparing to file an immigration application or petition, there’s an important change you need to know: USCIS will no longer accept paper checks for filing fees.
This new policy affects everyone submitting immigration forms — whether you’re applying for a green card, citizenship, or a work permit. To make sure your case isn’t delayed or denied, it’s essential to understand what’s changing and how to properly submit your payment.
In an effort to modernize and streamline payment processing, USCIS has transitioned to digital payment authorization forms.
Instead of sending paper checks or money orders, applicants must now complete one of two forms with each application they submit:
Each form authorizes USCIS to withdraw the correct filing fee electronically. This change eliminates the need for physical checks and helps USCIS process payments faster and more securely.
It’s critical that the funds are available at the time USCIS processes your payment. If your card is declined or your bank account doesn’t have enough money when the government tries to withdraw the fee, your entire case will be rejected or denied.
This means you’ll lose valuable time and may have to resubmit your application — along with another fee and updated paperwork.
Here are a few tips to make the process smoother:
By following these steps, you can avoid unnecessary delays and keep your immigration process on track.
Q1. Can I still send a paper check or money order?
No. USCIS has stopped accepting paper checks for most applications. Payments must now be made electronically using Form G-1450 or G-1650.
Q2. What happens if my payment fails?
If your payment is declined due to insufficient funds or incorrect information, USCIS will reject your application. You’ll need to resubmit with the correct form and fee.
Q3. Can I use one payment form for multiple applications?
No. You must submit a separate payment authorization form for each application or petition filed.
Filing forms correctly — including payment details — is essential to avoid costly delays or denials. At Godoy Law Office Immigration Lawyers, our experienced team can help you navigate the process, ensure all your forms are properly completed, and guide you every step of the way.
📞 Call us today at 630-345-4164 to schedule a consultation and make sure your immigration application is ready for success.
Oak Brook • Waukegan • Elgin • Orland Park • Berwyn • Aurora • Joliet
Immigration Attorney Mario Godoy has years of experience guiding clients with immigration issues through the immigration process along with guiding clients through the criminal case. Godoy focuses on family-based immigration law, business immigration law, removal defense, and criminal defense representation of immigrants. A criminal charge or conviction can be devastating to your immigration case. With over a decade of immigration law experience and memories of family members who were deported due to bad legal advice, Godoy is committed to helping other immigrant families receive the legal justice they deserve. As a legal entrepreneur who practices immigration law, criminal law, estate and probate law, and running two successful law firms, Mario Godoy understands the importance of keeping families together and making a home and future in America.
